Our Story
Latinos Unidos was founded in 1966 in response to inequality and the mistreatment of farmworkers. What began as a grassroots effort has grown into decades of impact—supporting cultural groups, youth programs, students, and families throughout Sonoma County.
That same commitment continues to guide our work today.
Al servicio de la comunidad
We provide programs and support that meet real community needs:
OUR MISSION
To serve the progress, education, and empowerment of the Latino community in Sonoma County through direct support, advocacy, and opportunity.
Our founders & Legacy
Latinos Unidos was co-founded by community leaders Rafael Morales and George Ortiz, whose vision and dedication laid the foundation for generations of impact.
Rafael Morales, in particular, left a lasting legacy through more than 20 years of service. During that time, he helped provide over $250,000 in scholarships to students—opening doors for many who would become the first in their families to attend college.
His commitment extended far beyond education. He was a strong supporter of the United Farm Workers Union, an advocate for workforce opportunities in low-income communities, a board member for KBBF Radio, and a familiar presence at community events throughout Sonoma County. He also helped form the first Mexican music band in the area, preserving and celebrating cultural traditions.
His legacy—and that of Latinos Unidos—reflects a lifelong dedication to service, culture, and community empowerment.
For decades, Latinos Unidos has supported hundreds of students—many of whom are the first in their families to pursue higher education. Beyond education, we remain committed to showing up for our community with compassion, responsiveness, and care.
OUR IMPACT
Our impact is not just measured in numbers, but in the lives, families, and futures we help support.
La unidad hace la fuerza.
Together, we continue to uplift our community and invest in future generations.
Latinos Unidos del Condado de Sonoma is a 501(c)(3), all-volunteer nonprofit organization dedicated to building a stronger, more equitable future for the Latino community.
For over 60 years, we have remained a pillar of support, resilience, and unity throughout Sonoma County.
Board of Directors: Ezequiel Guzman, Candido Morales, Lucia Ortiz, Roberto Ramirez, Virginia Jimenez, Yolanda Giron, Mayra Arreguin, Cindy Alvarado, Magdalena Ruiz, Eva Ramirez
As Seen in the Press Democrat
Latinos Unidos Del Condado de Sonoma awards over $92,000 in scholarships to local students
Latino students — many who may feel out of place at universities as they navigate spaces not often occupied by people that look, talk, or have backgrounds similar to theirs — were encouraged to keep dreaming during Saturday’s Latinos Unidos del Condado de Sonoma’s scholarship gala.
Read the full article here.
GET INVOLVED
Whether you’re looking to give back, support a student, or connect with your community, there’s a place for you here.