POWER 4 To affect true impact, direct services must be coupled with systems change. The latter merits community advocacy, outreach, engagement and leadership development. A F R A M E W O R K F O R L E A D E R S H I P Luz already showcases exemplary leadership skills. For example, many in the community seek Luz’ support around affordable housing, asking her to advocate for them since she is connected to neighborhood organizations. Luz sees herself as a resource, knowing that lack of awareness of available opportunity and insufficient knowledge of tenants’ rights can translate to displacement. Luz’ passion for equity in education had her diligently working for the passage of Prop N, passed by San Francisco voters in November 2016 and authorizing noncitizen voting in school board elections. Luz wants everyone’s voice to be heard. Looking to become a parent leader, Luz also joined the Mission Parent Advisory Council, just one of 40 community members to do so. She now feels empowered to help other families. Luz wants to continue to grow into a stronger leader. That’s why she headed to legislators’ offices in Sacramento as part of a 25-person group seeking to end childhood poverty not just in the Mission, but statewide. Luz sees the big picture. To further such work, in 2018 501(c)(3) MEDA created an affiliate 501(c)(4) , Mission Adelante. Such a 501(c)(4) will ensure that San Francisco’s Latino residents are decision-makers in the institutions and political systems that affect their lives. It’s about galvanizing la gente, close to home and nationwide. 14 14