Chicanos Por La Causa: Helping Arizona Communities | Find Support Today
Can a single organization truly transform lives and communities? Chicanos Por La Causa (CPLC) has been doing just that for over five decades, proving that dedication, strategic partnerships, and a deep understanding of community needs can create lasting positive change.
Founded in 1969, amidst the fervor of the Chicano Movement, CPLC emerged as a grassroots response to the pressing needs of Arizona's Latino population. Inspired by the legacies of Dolores Huerta and Csar Chvez, the organization began its journey with a clear mission: to uplift and empower individuals and families by providing essential services and advocating for social justice. From its humble beginnings, CPLC has evolved into a multi-faceted force, impacting not only Arizona but also extending its reach to Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, and California, serving people of all backgrounds with a particular emphasis on the Latino community.
CPLC's comprehensive approach addresses a broad spectrum of needs, reflecting its commitment to holistic community development. The organization delivers integrated services for youth, adults, and seniors in critical areas such as education, housing, health, and economic development. It operates hubs in key locations like Phoenix, Tucson, and Yuma, and maintains a statewide presence, ensuring accessibility across Arizona. Its reach has expanded over time, providing services across multiple states.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Organization Name | Chicanos Por La Causa (CPLC) |
| Type | Nonprofit Community Development Corporation (CDC) |
| Mission | To uplift and empower individuals and families by providing essential services and advocating for social justice. |
| Founded | 1969 |
| Geographic Reach | Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas, California |
| Key Services | Education, Housing, Health, Economic Development, Emergency Hardship Services, Community Development, Advocacy. |
| Noteworthy Programs | Terri Cruz Family Assistance Program, Prestamos CDFI, CPLC de Colores Domestic Violence Programs |
| Key Figures (Inspired By) | Dolores Huerta and Csar Chvez |
| Bilingual/Bicultural Services | Yes |
| Number of People Impacted Annually | Over 2,000,000 |
| Staff Strength | Nearly 900 |
| Early Childhood Development Program | Operates 15 sites in Cochise, Maricopa, Pinal, and Yuma Counties. |
| Community Development Services | Yes |
| Advocacy Areas | Equity in Education, Politics, and Labor Conditions. |
| Substance Abuse Treatment | Offered |
| Transitional Housing Services | Offered |
| Emergency Hardship Services | APS and SRP utility assistance, funeral assistance, food box referrals, SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) eligibility assistance and AHCCCS (Arizona Health Care Cost) assistance |
| Key Partners | Community leaders and partners |
| Financial services | Small Business Lending, affordable housing, and lending programs. |
CPLC's impact is felt through its various programs. The Terri Cruz Family Assistance Program offers crucial emergency hardship services. These include support with utility bills (APS and SRP), funeral assistance, food box referrals, and aid with SNAP and AHCCCS applications. The organization addresses immediate needs while also providing pathways to long-term stability.
Furthermore, CPLC champions community development. It provides community development services, advocating for equity in education, politics, and labor conditions. Through its advocacy efforts, the organization strives to create a more just and equitable society for all.
CPLC also operates the "CPLC de Colores" domestic violence programs, offering a safe and secure environment for families to heal from the trauma of abuse. This demonstrates the organizations understanding of the complex challenges faced by the communities it serves, and its commitment to providing comprehensive support.
The organization's economic development initiatives are also noteworthy. Through its subsidiary, Prestamos CDFI, LLC, CPLC has been providing lending programs since 1980. Prestamos helps promote economic and community development by providing capital to small businesses and real estate ventures, which in turn stimulates job creation and economic opportunities. This is a testament to CPLC's investment in the community and its focus on creating opportunities for economic growth.
CPLC has also expanded the supply of affordable housing opportunities with supportive services for the elderly, addressing the critical need for safe and affordable housing for seniors. This commitment highlights the organization's multifaceted approach to community well-being.
To provide a more granular view of operations, it's worth noting the Early Childhood Development program, which operates across 15 sites in Cochise, Maricopa, Pinal, and Yuma counties. Administrative functions are organized into Central and Western regions, ensuring efficient management and program delivery.
The organization's focus on financial health is evident through the role of Jesse Satterlee, who currently serves as Chief Financial Officer. With 21 years of financial experience, including 18 in the nonprofit sector, Satterlee's career path, starting as a financial analyst overseeing a $137 million contract, reflects CPLC's commitment to sound financial management. Moreover, Keogh Health Connection offers free enrollment assistance for AHCCCS, Kidscare, Marketplace health insurance, SNAP, and TANF. The organization's healthcare navigators provide dedicated support.
Chicanos por la Causa's commitment to education is also evident. It offers various pathways to quality careers, enabling individuals to provide for their families. The organization understands that economic empowerment is key, and its efforts in this area are extensive.
CPLC's roots are deeply intertwined with the history of the Chicano Movement in Arizona. The organization's story reflects the evolution of a grassroots movement into a significant national corporation, influenced by key leaders and driven by a commitment to the core values of social justice and community empowerment. The organization continues to embody these values, consistently adapting and innovating to meet the changing needs of the communities it serves.
CPLC, a statewide community development corporation (CDC), is committed to building stronger, healthier communities as a lead advocate, coalition builder, and direct service provider. This multifaceted approach ensures its continued relevance and effectiveness in driving positive change.
In a time of increasing complexity, CPLC's focus on integrated services and its commitment to addressing the multifaceted needs of the communities it serves is more vital than ever. By fostering partnerships, advocating for equity, and delivering essential services, Chicanos Por La Causa continues to write a remarkable story of community transformation.
CPLC's mission is to serve people of all backgrounds, with a special focus on the Latino community. The organization provides bilingual and bicultural social services, helping communities thrive and promoting human dignity and empowerment. The history of CPLC reflects its connection to the Chicano Movement and its commitment to the values of community and service. Learn more about the history of arizona's chicano movement in "Here we stand:".
CPLC's impact stretches far beyond the immediate services. It invests in the community, injecting capital into small businesses and real estate, revitalizing neighborhoods, creating jobs, and helping economic opportunities to grow. These investments are critical to building stronger communities.
For those seeking assistance or wanting to join the movement, CPLC offers various avenues to get involved. Click here for qualifications and to apply! Join us and be part of the change. Discover more about the work of CPLC and how it is influencing communities. Visit the CPLC Maryvale Community Service Center for additional support.
 has been doing just that for over five decades, proving that dedic){kind=link}