De Colores Resource Center Inc

De Colores Resource Center Inc. was born in February 2023 from the vision of 3 Latinas who imagined a Yolo County more supportive and representative of its monolingual Spanish speaking community, including Farmworkers. Often limited through their respective organizations to do more for this community, they sought to promote inclusivity of Latinos in the county by creating an organization they can relate to and trust, where they can feel belonging. Feeling undervalued and underrepresented in the workforce themselves, De Colores was also born from their yearning to thrive as leaders without compromising who they are inherently- Mexicanas, daughters of immigrants and farmworkers, with strong cultural qualities and the life experiences to center community voice and lead with humility.

The name De Colores is derived from the traditional Spanish language folk song "De Colores." The song is a celebration of all creations and promotes Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging. It was incorporated into the organization's name for its iconic presence in Latino culture, and because it keeps us grounded with humility, reminding us that uniquely, we come in all sorts of colors.  But, when we come together, lucimos como un arcoíris- we make a rainbow. 

De Colores Resource Center is a new emerging nonprofit organization seeking to establish 3 fundamental programs.

1) Apoyo al Campesino/Farmworker Support: this program is aimed at addressing the complex housing situations of many farmworkers in this region. Our unique location adjacent to Sacramento County and the presence of UC Davis in our neighborhood contributes to skyrocketing housing costs, making adequate housing less accessible for farmworkers, some of the most vulnerable families in Yolo County. Yet, we depend on their labor to maintain a thriving agricultural industry.  Existing housing support is not enough, leaving gaps in services for those that need help the most.  Restrictions on federal funds prevent some farmworkers from benefiting from rental or utility assistance.  De Colores is seeking unrestricted funds to help those most in need by preventing homelessness, addressing overcrowded housing situations, and unsafe housing conditions.  Farmworkers are most at risk and under stress during the winter season when jobs are scarce, making them more prone to food and housing insecurity. Addressing these issues helps us promote wellbeing and ensure a thriving agricultural community.

2) Granitos de Esperanza/Grains of Hope: this program is aimed at empowering individuals with the potential to thrive by addressing unique barriers hindering their ability to live a better life.  Whether its ensuring transportation to help someone keep their job, help fund a medical procedure otherwise not covered through health insurance, or addressing structural or environmental barriers, De Colores recognizes that there are Social Determinants of Health that impact the quality of life of individuals far more than their access to health insurance alone. This program helps address barriers with a tangible solution to empower individuals to thrive at home and in their communities, giving them a Grain of Hope for a better life.

3) Los Colibris Promotores Program: this program is fundamental to the work of De Colores.  We believe that social connectedness is crucial for a thriving life.  When we feel socially connected, valued and a sense of belonging, we are more inclined to make healthier choices and are better equipped to cope with stress and adversity. Los Colibris is a leadership program designed to drive community engagement and empower local individuals to be the voice of their community by proactively engaging in participatory research and budgeting and spearheading public communications.  As we strive for equity and inclusion, it's important that we intentionally create space for the people we aim to serve and give them the tools they need to become successful leaders to inform our programs and processes so that we may truly meet the needs of our community.