Jose Rizo – Program Director
Introducing Jose: A beacon of resilience and community advocacy, Jose's journey embodies a profound dedication to personal growth and empowerment. Rooted in the vibrant fabric of San Francisco's Visitation Valley, his upbringing instilled resilience and cultural fluency.
In 1997, Jose's family embarked on a transformative journey to Quetzaltenango, Guatemala, where he immersed himself in his heritage and refined his Spanish language skills, providing invaluable assistance to visiting missionaries. Returning to Antioch, California, in 2000, Jose pursued his education with unwavering determination.
Beginning at Heald College, Jose earned an associate's degree in Information Technology, launching his career in the tech sector. Driven by an insatiable thirst for knowledge, he pursued higher education while at VCRC, obtaining a Bachelor's in Business Administration from Ashford University, followed by a Master's in Business Administration from the University of Arizona Global Campus, honing his expertise in strategic management and leadership.
Amidst his academic endeavors, Jose remained steadfast in his commitment to community service. As a Community Response Leader with Stand Together Contra Costa, he spearheaded outreach efforts and facilitated workshops to empower families confronting immigration challenges.
Now an integral part of VCRC, Jose's diverse expertise and unwavering dedication continue to uplift and empower underserved communities. His journey exemplifies the transformative power of education, perseverance, and a resolute commitment to collective well-being.
Jose has been at the forefront of change in Contra Costa County, serving on the formation committee of the Office of Racial Equity and Social Justice, contributing as a committee member for Gateways for Growth to expand language access to county systems, and participating in several committees for the Contra Costa Cares outreach effort. Additionally, he has advocated for the expansion of Medi-Cal access for undocumented individuals beyond the state's minimum mandates.