Unidos South OC Transforms Communities Through Leadership and Advocacy

Unidos South OC (Unidos) is a beacon of hope and empowerment in the community of San Juan Capistrano in Southern California. Their powerful journey showcases how grassroots leadership and collective action can drive meaningful change in communities facing social inequities. In partnership with the St. Joseph Fund (SJF), Unidos’ initiative, Community Leader Coalition (CLC), grew into a movement that’s transformed lives, neighborhoods, and policies.

Unidos began by offering essential services like homework clubs and pandemic relief, meeting immediate community needs through food distribution and direct cash aid. Soon after this work started, they recognized that long-term solutions required addressing systemic challenges, particularly housing affordability. Over time, they designed the CLC to form a powerful advocacy force, equipping residents with the tools and confidence to demand change.

One example of a resident making an impact is Miriam Zúñiga, a 32-year resident of San Juan Capistrano. Miriam went from feeling unheard and undervalued to becoming a key leader in her community. Unidos and the CLC provided her and others with the knowledge, direction, and support needed to take action to improve conditions in their neighborhoods. What started with just eight resident leaders has expanded to over 100 individuals committed to advocating for their community’s needs.

Through persistence and collaboration, CLC advocated for new affordable housing policies that prioritize residents and workers. Their efforts also resulted in the approval of the San Juan Plaza development, the city’s first multi-family housing project in nearly 40 years. Additionally, two resident homeowners, once sidelined, were elected to their HOA board, introducing tenant perspectives to the decision-making table for the first time.

Unidos’ work goes beyond policy wins. It empowers residents. Community members feel more connected, hopeful, and driven to continue advocating for their rights. With the support of partners like SJF and others, Unidos is positioned to expand its efforts and inspire even more significant change.

Unidos’ story is a testament to the power of community organizing and leadership. When people come together with a shared vision and the proper support, transformation is as possible as it is inevitable.