Community Engagement Program

A Legacy of Partnership 

In 2011, Padres Unidos partnered with Chapman University’s Attallah College of Educational Studies to launch the innovative Community Worker Award. Together, we created a first-of-its-kind educational model that combined university coursework with real-world community service and leadership development. The partnership was built on a shared belief that parents are powerful agents of change. Over a hundred parents and community leaders completed the rigorous two-year program, receiving specialized training in leadership, ethics, communication, group dynamics, crisis intervention, child abuse prevention, domestic violence awareness, parent education, case management, and community advocacy. The Chapman University partnership established a strong foundation that transformed volunteers into confident leaders, many of whom now serve as Community Workers, educators, facilitators, nonprofit professionals, and advocates throughout Orange County. 

A New Chapter with Santiago Canyon College 

Today, we are proud to continue that legacy through our partnership with Santiago Canyon College, offering the Community Worker Certificate Program. This new collaboration expands access to higher education while preserving the heart and vision of the original program. Participants complete a comprehensive two-year certificate that blends college coursework with experiential learning, leadership development, and meaningful community engagement. 

Students develop practical skills in: 

• • • Leadership and community organizing
    • Crisis intervention
    • Interpersonal communication
    • Group facilitation
    • Parent education
    • Cultural humility
    • Advocacy and systems navigation
    • Child and family development
    • Professional ethics
    • Community wellness

    Throughout the program, participants gain valuable hands-on experience by serving alongside Padres Unidos staff in schools, healthcare settings, family resource centers, and community programs, strengthening both their professional skills and their commitment to serving others. By creating leaders who give back the Community Worker Certificate is more than an educational program it is a leadership journey that empowers parents and community members to transform their own lives while strengthening the communities around them. Graduates become trusted leaders who mentor families, facilitate workshops, connect residents to resources, advocate within schools and healthcare systems, and inspire others to become engaged in their communities. Many continue their educational journey, pursue careers in human services, or join the Padres Unidos team as Community Workers and program leaders. By investing in local leaders, we are creating sustainable change from within our communities. 

      

    Program Impact 

    Since 1999: 

    • More than 550 parents and community members have served as volunteers and community leaders through Padres Unidos.
    • More than 120 participants earned the Community Worker Award through our partnership with Chapman University through full scholarship support.
    • 78% of graduates continue to serve Orange County as Community Workers, parent educators, advocates, nonprofit professionals, and community leaders.
    • In 2025, Padres Unidos proudly launched a new partnership with Santiago Canyon College, ensuring the continued growth and sustainability of the Community Worker program through an accredited Community Worker Certificate. The partnership builds upon more than a decade of success while expanding access to higher education and career pathways for community leaders.
    • The inaugural 2025–2027 Santiago Canyon College Community Worker Certificate Cohort is currently preparing the next generation of bilingual parent leaders and Community Workers through a comprehensive two-year educational pathway that combines college coursework, leadership development, and hands-on service to Orange County families.

    SPOTLIGHT

    

    Community Engagement

     

    How You Can Help

    1. 1. Individual Donations.
       2. Business Sponsorship.
       3. Private Foundation Grants.

    With your help, we can empower even more families to give back to their community and build a culture of volunteerism and mutual support.