Castellano Family Foundation Leaves a Lasting Legacy with a Final Gift of $300,000 to the Latina Coalition of Silicon Valley
[San Jose, CA, December 18, 2023] — The Castellano Family Foundation, renowned for its unwavering support of Latinx community initiatives, marks the culmination of its philanthropic journey with a momentous final donation of $300,000 to the Latina Coalition of Silicon Valley. This contribution not only signifies a substantial financial investment but also encapsulates a profound commitment to empowering the Latinx community and fostering enduring change.
During a recent Latina Coalition Holiday Party (see full video here), Gabby Chavez-Lopez, the Executive Director of the Latina Coalition of Silicon Valley, expressed heartfelt gratitude for Al and Carmen Castellano and the Foundation's enduring support, stating, "This is a very special and meaningful gift from the Castellano Family Foundation. They have been dedicated to supporting us since our humble beginnings when our budget was minimal, and we operated as a scrappy, volunteer-driven organization. Their steadfast support throughout our journey is invaluable and truly unique."
Recognizing the Castellanos' visionary approach to philanthropy, Gabby remarked, "The Castellanos have been pioneers in the philanthropic sphere, elevating the significance of Latinx-led nonprofits. Through initiatives like the Blueprint for Change, they have championed intentional and aggressive efforts to advance the success of organizations like ours. This final gift exemplifies their unwavering commitment and intentionality."
Carmela Castellano-Garcia, former President of the Castellano Family Foundation, expressed her pride in this final act of philanthropy, stating, "This is a very proud moment for me. I feel immensely gratified that the final gift of the Castellano Family Foundation will support an organization as remarkable as the Latina Coalition."
Reflecting on the Foundation's journey, Carmela shared, "My family began this noble pursuit in 2001, and it has been a privilege to lead this effort alongside my family for the past 13 years. As we reach the culmination of our resources, we sought an organization that embodies our values and has the potential to catalyze positive change."
The Latina Coalition of Silicon Valley emerged as the natural choice for this significant donation. Carmela highlighted the organization's embodiment of the Foundation's values—volunteerism, dedicated board members, and a steadfast commitment to Latinx communities spanning two decades. Under the leadership of Gabby Chavez-Lopez, who started as part of the organization and now leads it, the Latina Coalition exemplifies resilience, mentorship, and empowerment.
"The Coalition's dedication to nurturing Latina leaders and its unwavering commitment to progress is truly exemplary," Carmela added. "Their trajectory—from a group of dedicated volunteers to an organization fostering leadership like Gabby's—is an incredible success story."
For the Latina Coalition of Silicon Valley, this monumental donation holds immense significance. Gabby emphasized its impact, sharing, "This gift is incredibly monumental for us—it stands as the largest individual contribution received by our organization. Its significance goes beyond its monetary value; it symbolizes a reinvestment in our community and a fervent dedication to advancing our mission of empowering Latinas."
Reflecting on the organization's journey and the impact of support, the founder of the Latina Coalition of Silicon Valley Teresa Alvarado added, "Witnessing the growth of this organization has been both humbling and inspiring. The support we've received, particularly from the Castellano Family Foundation, has been instrumental in our evolution. Their commitment underscores the transformative power of strategic philanthropy in elevating Latinx-led nonprofits. Together, we've created pathways for Latina leadership, and I'm deeply grateful for the collective dedication that continues to strengthen our community."
Speaking to the broader inspiration of this act of generosity, especially during the season of giving, Gabby highlighted its universal significance, stating, "This gift is truly inspiring, especially during this time of year—a reminder that every contribution, regardless of its size, matters. Investing in the next generation yields immeasurable dividends, and the Castellano Family Foundation's support sets a remarkable example for all."
The Castellano Family Foundation's final gift leaves an indelible mark on the trajectory of the Latina Coalition of Silicon Valley, reinforcing their shared commitment to community empowerment and social progress.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Gabriela Chavez-Lopez
gabriela@latinacoalition.org
(408) 930-0667