As of 2024, Rafael serves as the Vice President of Community Programs at The Unity Council. He joined the organization in June 2021 as the Associate Director of Health and Social Services and was promoted to Interim Director of Community Programs in June 2022, advancing to Director in October 2022. In his current role, Rafael oversees TUC’s Community Programs, leading a team of 45 staff members dedicated to supporting community health, social services, and youth development. These services include referrals, benefits assistance, housing navigation, financial capability programming, senior wellness services, food security programs, resident services, and youth workforce development and academic achievement initiatives.
Rafael brings 15 years of experience in community health, with expertise in health education and engagement, social services, and program development. Before joining TUC, he served as Program Director of HIV Services at Instituto Familiar de la Raza and collaborated with several health-focused organizations, including The Permanente Medical Group and the Seattle & King County Health Department. Rafael holds a Master of Public Health and a Master of City Planning from UC Berkeley, as well as a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Ethnic Studies from the University of Washington.
