Latest news with #LatinoCommunityFoundation
Yahoo
20-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Sara Lomelin
Credit - Courtesy Bryan Patrick Sara Lomelin runs the nonprofit Philanthropy Together to show that you don't need to be wealthy to be a philanthropist; you can participate in collective giving. Get some friends, neighbors, or other philanthropic-minded people to each kick in small amounts, then gather to decide where to donate the kitty. By pooling resources, you create a bigger impact. 'It's the multiplying effect of the dollars, the ideas and the volunteer hours,' says Lomelin, a former fundraiser for San Francisco's Latino Community Foundation who previously created the Latino Giving Circle Network, the largest network of Latinx philanthropists in the U.S. Lomelin then co-founded Philanthropy Together in 2020, with backing from the Gates Foundation, to help scale and strengthen the collective giving movement. The organization offers free training videos and webinars, and a searchable database of more than 4,000 circles looking for new members. It's a movement that's gaining traction. Philanthropy Together's 2024 study found that collective giving has more than doubled since 2017, with more than 370,000 Americans now participating in giving circles, donating about $3.1 billion. Write to Kim Clark at Kim_Clark@
San Francisco Chronicle
19-05-2025
- Health
- San Francisco Chronicle
Gavin Newsom needs to focus on current job
Unsolicited advice for Kamala Harris as she ponders whether to run for governor: Don't be like Gavin Newsom. Newsom has spent so much time talking about national issues that voters think he's more focused on running for his next office, even when he isn't. The latest example came this past week when Newsom announced that his new budget plan would force undocumented immigrants to start paying for state administered health care and there would be a cap on new enrollment to the benefit. Was that a move aimed at helping California's bottom line in 2026 or Newsom's expected 2028 White House run by showing he could take a tough line on undocumented immigrants? Some top Latino organizations are seeing the move more as a political than budgetary. Julian Castro, a former San Antonio mayor, Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, 2020 presidential candidate and now CEO of the Latino Community Foundation told me in a statement that 'The newly announced budget deficit presents a defining test of leadership. California should not balance its budget on the backs of the most vulnerable.' Castro said the group's polling 'has consistently identified the high cost of health care as one of the top concerns for Latino communities across California. State Sen. Lena Gonzalez, D-Long Beach, chair of the Latino Caucus, said Newsom's proposal 'to gut Medi-Cal is pretty clear. It says 'we value you when you make us the fourth largest economy in the world, but we don't value you enough to ensure you have basic health care.'' Some background: California, Oregon and Minnesota are the only states that offer public health coverage to all adults regardless of immigration status, according to the National Immigration Law Center. Offering those benefits has long been 'a point of pride,' Newsom says. 'No state in the country has done more for the Latino community in terms of expanding programs. No state will continue to do more,' Newsom earlier this month when announcing his cuts. 'And by the way, I'm proud of the work we've done in that space, as I noted earlier, and the fact that we've championed a lot of those programs. We're not cutting anybody off from basic services, but we are asking for something we ask of all taxpayers of California.' He noted that California collects $8.5 billion a year in state and local taxes from people without documentation. That seems like a solid, budgetary reason for the change. Those costs ran $2.7 billion more than the state anticipated, so the governor is making a prudent fiscal adjustment. Or is he trying to appear more moderate by cracking down on undocumented immigrants, a talking point that helped President Donald Trump win and Republicans gain control Congress? Californians have mixed feelings on offering health insurance to undocumented immigrants. For many it depends on the age of the recipient. By a nearly 2-1 margin (61% to 31%) voters support offering such coverage for undocumented children under 18, according to a May Berkeley IGS survey of registered voters. They also back offering coverage to undocumented adults ages 50 or older but by a 53% to 40% margin. However, they're divided on extending coverage to undocumented adults ages 18-49, with 49% in favor and 43% opposed. Republicans in Washington are framing federal Medicaid rollbacks by talking about 'work requirements' for recipients. As retired UC Berkeley linguistic professor George Lakoff, an expert on using language to frame issues, wrote Friday in his Frame Lab newsletter, Republicans have 'done the polling. Voters — especially independents — respond positively to 'work requirements.' Who shouldn't have to work? That's the trap. A majority of swing voters approve of adding extra hoops for the poorest workers — even those recently laid off — simply because the frame sounds fair.' Instead, Lakoff wrote, Democrats should use the phrase 'Job Loss Penalty.'' 'When voters hear it described that way — a penalty for losing your job — they reject it. Strongly. Even independents. Voters intuitively understand that poverty is already a work requirement. Medicaid is for people who are struggling. Burdening them further — especially after job loss — is cruelty, not policy. This framing is more than just accurate. It works,' Lakoff wrote. So when Newsom talks about these Medicaid cuts, some Democrats may wonder if he is he throwing undocumented immigrants under the bus just like he did young trans athletes earlier this year when he was nodding along with transphobic conservative activist Charlie Kirk (who has described trans folks as a ' throbbing middle finger to God' and 'an abomination') on an early episode of his 'This is Gavin Newsom' podcast. When the topic invariably turned to trans issues on the show, Newsom said he thought the practice of trans athletes competing on female sports teams is ' deeply unfair. ' He did not say outright whether he supports a ban. The comment left many wondering if this was the same Newsom who has been a hero to the LGBTQ community since he started issuing marriage licenses to same-sex couples months into his first term as San Francisco mayor. The same guy who stuck to his principles despite getting heat from Democratic Party leaders, including Sen. Dianne Feinstein. Then-Sen. Barack Obama declined to be photographed with him that year at a fundraiser. Newsom didn't budge and became a hero for sticking to his values that also reflected those of the people he represented. 'WTF. Trans people and LGBTQ+ people are under attack. We don't need our gov caving to conservative talking points that further hurt and scapegoat 1% of the population,' Assembly Member Alex Lee, D-San Jose, wrote in a post on the social media platform BlueSky. Another example of the challenge of interpreting Newsom's motives is his recent 'news' that earned him a New York Times headline: 'Newsom asks cities to ban homeless encampments, escalating crackdown.' As my colleague Emily Hoeven noted, 'there wasn't much news in Newsom's announcement, but it got him a national headline. The point, Hoeven wrote, was 'to capture headlines and get his name circulating nationally. Second: To redirect the blame for California's persistent homelessness crisis away from the state and toward county and city governments.' Again, the lingering question for Californians was: Do you believe Newsom? Do you believe he is making decisions primarily for the benefit of California today? Or Newsom tomorrow? Increasingly, Californians aren't trusting their governor,. By a more than than 2-1 margin, more voters believe Newsom in his final two years in Sacramento 'is devoting more of his attention to things that might benefit himself as a possible candidate (54%) for president' than 'governing the state and helping to solve its problems (26%),' according to a Berkeley IGS Poll of registered voters this month. When voters don't believe their leader is primarily focused on their needs, the leader's credibility is shot. (Californians are split on their opinion of Newsom. An even number approve (46%) of the job he's doing as disapprove, according to the survey.) And there is the lesson for Harris, who said she will decide by the end of the summer whether to run for governor. One major hesitation: She is still deciding whether to run for president again in 2028. So here is the first question she should be asked when/if she decides to run for governor: Will you promise not to run for president in 2028? A no or even the slightest equivocation or political hem-hawing should make Californians forget about her and move on to former Rep. Katie Porter or any of the six less inspiring Democrats running to succeed Newsom. The message voters are sending to Newsom and possibly Harris is clear: DO YOUR DAY JOB. There's plenty to keep you busy here. Yes, standing in the bully pulpit of the world's fourth-largest economy to fight back against President Donald Trump and the GOP's attacks on California is a part of the job and gets you shoulder rubs on MSNBC and gooses online donations. But it's not the job taxpayers are paying you to do. As Julian Castro said, the 'newly announced budget deficit presents a defining test of leadership.' And there could be more bad news on the horizon. Newsom acknowledged that once the Republican-led Congress and Trump finalize a budget, California could have to make more budget cuts. Then, Newsom will ask voters to make more sacrifices. Will they believe his moves are best for California or for Newsom?
Business Wire
06-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Latino Community Foundation Unveils New Research on Latino Entrepreneurship, Highlighting Untapped Economic Potential for the Nation
SAN FRANCISCO--(BUSINESS WIRE)--California's economy, the fourth largest in the world, offers a glimpse of what's possible for the United States: greater prosperity fueled by Latino entrepreneurs. But new research from the Latino Community Foundation (LCF) reveals the nation is leaving billions on the table by failing to invest in the very businesses driving local growth and job creation. As National Small Business Week kicks off, the Latino Community Foundation (LCF) releases two new research reports developed in collaboration with national thought leaders: The California Procurement Playbook, produced in partnership with Drexel University's Nowak Metro Finance Lab, and Investing in California's Future: An Analysis of Latino-led CDFIs in California, developed with the National Association for Latino Community Asset Builders (NALCAB). Together, the reports spotlight the untapped economic potential of Latino-led small businesses and lay out a path for California and the nation. 'Latinos are twice as likely to start businesses, and Latinas are launching new businesses at six times the national average,' said Julián Castro, CEO of the Latino Community Foundation. 'Yet our communities still face a sizable wealth gap and inequitable access to capital and scalable procurement opportunities. It is troubling that only two percent of federal contracts in California are performed by Latino-owned firms. These reports are also about more than numbers—they're about ensuring that Latino families, entrepreneurs, and business owners have equitable access to the financial tools that create opportunity, promote scalability, and build generational wealth.' 'California recently surpassed Japan as the fourth largest economy in the world. This report shows that the state can soar even higher by investing in Latino-led CDFIs,' said Marla Bilonick, President and CEO of NALCAB. 'We are grateful to the Latino Community Foundation for their partnership in elevating the strengths of Latino CDFIs and providing a vision for a more robust Latino CDFI presence in the Golden State. The economic power that Latinos generate for the United States is equal to the fifth largest economy in the world. It's vital that we channel that strength within the CDFI industry to lift all of our communities.' Key findings from Investing in California's Future: An analysis of Latino-led CDFIs in California report include: Latinos make up 40% of California's population but lead only 15% of the state's CDFIs. Latino-led CDFIs are more likely to serve Latino clients and offer culturally relevant services, including technical assistance and microloans. Latino-led CDFIs are mostly based in urban areas, while many rural counties with large Latino populations have little to no access to these resources. Latino-led CDFIs, especially in California, rely less on government and bank loans. They use more flexible and community-centered funding approaches. The California Procurement Playbook is a first-of-its-kind analysis of how Latino-owned businesses in California are faring in the federal procurement economy—and how much opportunity remains untapped. 'California—home to the nation's fourth-largest economy and more than 80,000 Latino-owned employer firms—offers a powerful opportunity to grow local and diverse businesses through procurement,' said Bruce Katz, Director of the Nowak Metro Finance Lab at Drexel University. 'But to truly scale these businesses, we need a firm-first approach. The California Procurement Playbook outlines a bold strategy centered on supplier development and access to capital—key investments that can unlock the full potential of Latino-owned firms. A thriving, competitive economy depends on opening up procurement opportunities to small and local businesses, not just long-standing incumbents. I applaud the Latino Community Foundation for spearheading this effort to build a more inclusive and innovative economy from the ground up.' Key findings from the California Procurement Playbook include: Latino-owned businesses capture only 2% of federal contracts in California, despite being 11.4% of employer firms and 40% of the state's population. Nearly 2,900 Latino firms are registered to compete for federal contracts but have never won one. Construction, security, aerospace manufacturing, and architectural services are all ripe for greater Latino participation. Language access, limited capital, and lack of ecosystem coordination prevent many firms from scaling. To download the full reports and explore how the Latino Community Foundation is advancing economic justice for Latino entrepreneurs, visit: About Latino Community Foundation The Latino Community Foundation (LCF) strives to unleash the civic and economic power of Latinos in California and beyond. Through nationally recognized programs like the Latino Nonprofit Accelerator and the Latino Giving Circle Network, LCF transforms philanthropy by centering trust, relationships, and community. From economic justice to civic leadership, LCF is building a future where Latinos lead with love and strength—and where no one is left behind. Learn more by visiting About NALCAB NALCAB is a one-of-a kind CDFI intermediary with 200+ member CDFI and economic development nonprofit member organizations that are working to maximize the economic contributions of the Latino population to the U.S. economy. Our presence extends to all 50 states, DC and Puerto Rico. Learn more at
Yahoo
05-05-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Latino voters want accountability from Donald Trump, according to new poll
Latino voters are 'deeply worried' about the direction of the country under the Trump Administration, according to a new national poll. The national poll, commissioned by the Latino Community Foundation (LCF) and Voto Latino Foundation, was released April 28, as President Donald Trump completed the 100 of his second term. 'This poll makes one thing clear, Latino voters from 2024 are paying close attention and are not afraid to hold leaders accountable,' said Julián Castro, CEO of the Latino Community Foundation base in San Francisco. According to the poll, most Latino voters — 63% — believe Trump has gone too far on immigration, and more than four in 10 are worried that someone close to them will be deported. Trump's approval rating fell to 39%, falling below his 2024 vote share, according to the poll. About 36.2 million Latinos were eligible to vote in 2024, which was a 12% increase (nearly 4 million people) from 2020's presidential election, according to an analysis by the Pew Research Center. In California, Hispanics are about 33% of the eligible voter population. Latinos make up nearly one-fifth of the United States's population and two-fifths of California's population. Trump made gains among Hispanics in 2020, however a majority of Latino voters (59%) voted for former President Joe Biden that year, according to a Pew Research Center analysis of validated voters. Exit polls for the 2024 election showed Trump received historic support nationally from Latino voters. Early statewide tallies suggested more Latinos voted for Trump in California, too. Fresno County swung Republican in the 2024 presidential election for the first time in two decades, backing Trump's bid to return to the White House. It was one of the biggest shifts toward Trump in the state, with 53.1% of voters. In 2020, Biden won Fresno County with 52.9%. The survey, conducted between April 10–14, polled 1,000 Hispanic voters nation-wide who participated in the 2024 election. Polling data show Latino voters overwhelmingly report feelings of worry, fear, and anger as they reflect on the early months of the Trump Administration. Economic pain is top of mind with inflation as the top concern, especially among younger Latinos and Latino men, groups that showed notable support for Trump in 2024. Most respondents believe Trump has made inflation worse, not better. The poll also found that while some 2024 Latino voters are still taking a 'wait-and-see' approach, there are signs of shifting tides. Trump's approval rating now trails his 2024 vote share, and congressional Republicans are losing ground on the generic ballot. 'We are listening closely to the voices of our communities, and what we're hearing is deep concern about the cost of living and the lack of real solutions,' Castro said. 'Economic relief was promised, and our community is still waiting. The Latino vote is not a blank check.' María Teresa Kumar, co-founder and president of Voto Latino Foundation said the poll 'captures a community that trusted promises of economic relief and stability but instead sees a country moving in the wrong direction.' 'Latino families aren't just worried, they are mobilizing, staying informed, and ready to demand leaders who will deliver real change,' Kumar said.
USA Today
29-04-2025
- Politics
- USA Today
60% of Latino voters say country is on wrong track as Trump reaches 100 days: New polls
60% of Latino voters say country is on wrong track as Trump reaches 100 days: New polls Show Caption Hide Caption How the Latino vote helped propel Trump to victory A big swing toward Trump among Latino voters, particularly men, helped him win the presidency. Bloomberg - Quicktake A majority of Latino voters said they believe the country is heading in the wrong direction, according to a new survey conducted as President Donald Trump marks his first 100 days in office of his second term. The poll, released on April 28, found 60% of Latino voters think the country is on the wrong track, and 70% of that group hold Trump and his administration accountable. The survey, from UnidosUS, Voces Unidos and LULAC, three of the largest Latino organizations in the country, included 1,002 Latino voters. Thirty-seven percent of survey respondents said they approved of Trump's presidency. The poll also found that 19% think the economy is "better," compared to 2024, and 29% believe current economic policies will make them better off. The poll also found the economy and the cost of living are among the chief concerns from the nation's second-largest voting bloc, as well as the administration's crackdown on immigration and deportation policies. "Latino voters are frustrated that their economic priorities are being ignored and that a key promise made by President Trump during the election is not being kept," UnidosUS President Janet Murguía said in a statement. "Economic discontent was the most potent driver in the 2024 election, helping President Trump increase support among Latinos." That's not all. In another poll released April 28 – conducted by advocacy groups the Latino Community Foundation (LCF) and Voto Latino Foundation – 60% of Latino voters said they're worried about the country's direction under the Trump administration. "What we're hearing is deep concern about the cost of living and the lack of real solutions. Economic relief was promised, and our community is still waiting," Julián Castro, CEO of the Latino Community Foundation, said in a statement. "The Latino vote is not a blank check.' USA TODAY has reached out to the White House for comment. Both polls mirror other recent national surveys. The Washington Post over the weekend reported that Trump has the lowest approval rating for any president at their 100-day mark, dating back to Franklin D. Roosevelt's third term. A Pew Research poll released April 23 showed Trump's approval rating among Hispanics at 27%, lower than the 40% of Americans polled overall. Hispanic and Latino markers don't always refer to exactly the same populations. Promises promises: Trump promised to improve the economy on Day 1. Americans are still waiting. Trump showing with Latino voters contrasts with election surge The polls of Latino Americans come after Trump made key inroads with the bloc in capturing his second presidency. Trump won 46% of Latinos' vote in November's election, 14 points higher than in 2020, according to Edison Research exit polls. But the economy is Latino voters' number one priority in both surveys released this week. The cost of living, jobs, housing and health care remain among their top concerns. In the UnidosUS, Voces Unidos and LULAC poll, 60% said they think Trump and his fellow Republicans aren't focusing enough on bringing down the costs of everyday goods. Sixty-six percent believe tariffs, a key component of Trump's agenda, will limit their economic security by raising prices. The Trump administration has argued that tariffs will raise revenue and boost manufacturing within the U.S. Voters weigh in on Trump's deportation, immigration policies Trump's immigration priorities have also taken center stage in the first 100 days of his second term, intensifying a dramatic decline in illegal border crossings and fueling a spike in immigrant arrests in cities and towns nationwide. Flying immigrants to a mega prison in El Salvador and attempting to cancel birthright citizenship have been two of his major moves so far. Still, Trump previously told "Meet the Press" he hopes Democrats and Republicans can find a deal to allow the so-called Dreamers, people who were brought into the country illegally as children, to stay. The majority of Latinos polled in the the UnidosUS, Voces Unidos and LULAC poll, 66%, support a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants who have been in the United States for an extended period, or who were brought into the country as kids. Seventy-eight percent said they believe it's important to deport people convicted of crimes but "Trump and congressional Republicans should not target long-residing undocumented immigrants without criminal records." 'Respect the law': Trump signs executive order highlighting sanctuary cities fighting immigration enforcement In the Latino Community Foundation and Voto Latino poll, around 63% of Latino voters surveyed believe the Trump administration has "gone too far" in trying to stop illegal immigration and deporting undocumented migrants. Also, about 45% of those polled are worried that someone close to them will be deported. Both the UnidosUS, Voces Unidos and LULAC poll and the Latino Community Foundation and Voto Latino poll have a margin of error of +/- 3.1 percentage points. 100 days in: Trump has cracked down on immigration and the border. At what cost? Contributing: Jessica Guynn, Bailey Schulz, Lauren Villagran and Sarah D. Wire; USA TODAY
