Please note: this meeting will be held in person at the Community Foundation for Southern Arizona at our old morning time. See below for details & COVID precautions.

Single narratives often create stereotypes which are deficit-framed, incomplete and harmful. The use of asset-based language in fundraising emphasizes the strengths, aspirations, and contributions of communities of color. By honoring the work of people of color rather than portraying them as recipients of charity, they themselves can lead systemic change efforts in their communities. 

Frank Velásquez Jr. (he/his)
A racial and gender equity advocate, Frank Velásquez Jr. leads and collaborates with passion, authenticity and an open mind. He connects to the stories that make each of us who we are and the stories that inextricably connect us to each other. His career has included stops in the private sector such as Walt Disney World and MGM Grand Resort & Casino Las Vegas, as well as higher education (Pima Community College), the not-for-profit sector (JobPath, Boys to Men Tucson), and consulting/contracting (YWCA of Southern Arizona, Sunnyside Foundation and Sol Casinos). Frank’s passion is to bring local, regional, and national attention to the inequities that people of color face, and does this currently through his workforce and community development work in Southern Arizona. His favorite project was the creation and soon-to-be-launched Women’s Economic Advancement Center at YWCA of Southern Arizona, a self-sufficiency center designed to meet women where they are and provide them holistic support so that they can achieve economic stability. He currently works as the Director of Workforce Initiatives at the Tucson Metro Chamber of Commerce.

In his free time, Frank loves to play basketball, travel the globe, hike, and watch a good movie/show/play with his partner in crime.

COVID Precautions:

According to current Pima County Health Department and CDC guidelines, AFP is operating in Yellow/Medium category:

• Masking is required indoors
• Proof of vaccination or a negative test (72 hours) is required at the door
• Please do not attend if you have recently tested positive for COVID or are showing any potential symptoms