El Centrito Family Learning Centers

Luann Rocha is Co-founder and Executive Director of El Centrito Family Learning Centers. She has been responsible for directing the agency, since its inception in 1992. She has over 24 years of management, supervisory and program development experience, and under her leadership has overseen the implementation of all programs currently in operation. Ms. Rocha served without financial compensation for the first two years of agency’s existence.

As Executive Director, she is responsible for fund development, board development, program development, program evaluation, marketing, community relations, financial oversight, personnel management, and administration of the organization. Under Ms. Rocha’s leadership, the agency has continued to operate with a strong track record in both program and fiscal areas. Since its inception, the entire agency has grown from a volunteer staffed organization to a staff of 25, and budget of $2,000 to over $900,000.

Since 1979, Luann has worked in a variety of roles in the public service field including, social worker, community outreach coordinator, field deputy for elected officials, planner, agency consultant, and board member. Ms. Rocha received her Master’s Degree in Social Welfare Administration, from University of California, Berkeley, and holds a Bachelor’s of Arts degree in Spanish and Social Work from Marquette University. She also served as a Public Affairs Fellow with the Coro Foundation, Los Angeles office. Ms. Rocha has also studied at the University of Madrid, Spain.

You can reach Luann Rocha at 805-483-8685, Extension 227 or luannrocha@elcentrito.org

Joseph Castaneda is the Family Literacy Director. Mr. Castaneda hold a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature and Political Science from the University of California, Los Angeles and studied International Ethics and Welfare Systems at the University of Birmingham, England. Most recently he finished his community outreach service with Peace Corps in Ecuador's Amazon Region. He is responsible for overseeing El Centrito's Even Start Program, School Readiness Program, Ramona Pre-school Program. Mr. Castaneda offers these programs his knowledge and expertise in socicial welfare services, community development and education. He also participates in local art projects that vary from public access shows, producing theatre, to creative writing.

You can reach Joseph Castaneda at 805-483-8685, Extension 232 or familyliteracy@elcentrito.org

Kimphat Nguyen has served as Financial and IT Manager since April of 2004. Mr. Nguyen graduated from Saigon University with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Accounting Management. He also holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Teaching Russian Language from Vozonhetj University in Russia. He is responsible for the financial management of the agency. He ensures that the organization works within budget, prepares financial reports, oversees payroll, and personnel administration. Mr. Nguyen brings with him over 13 years experience in accounting.

You can reach Kimphat Nguyen at 805-483-8685, Extension 226 or accounting@elcentrito.org