Dolores Diaz has spent nearly five decades in service to affordable housing, bringing her vision and dedication to communities across California. Born and raised in Guadalupe, a small farm labor town nestled between Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo, Dolores’s early experiences were shaped by the strength and resilience of her close-knit community. Those formative years laid the groundwork for a career dedicated to helping others find stability and support.

Dolores started her journey in 1976 as an “Interviewer” for the Housing Authority of the County of Santa Barbara’s affordable housing programs. Since then, her career has evolved in ways she never imagined—taking on leadership roles in federal, state, and local rental assistance programs, directing resident services, and even serving as the Executive Director of the Regional Task Force on Homelessness in San Diego. “I’ve worn many hats in my career, but each role has taught me that affordable housing is more than just shelter. It’s about dignity, community, and hope,” Dolores reflects.

Today, Dolores serves as the Special Programs Administrator on the Equity Assurance team at the San Diego Housing Commission, a role that allows her to carry forward her commitment to equity and support for underserved communities. But as she acknowledges, she hasn’t been alone on this journey. The San Diego Housing Federation (SDHF) has been there at every turn, providing guidance, training, and a powerful network of like-minded professionals and advocates. “SDHF has been a constant source of knowledge and partnership,” she says. “Their resources, their people—it’s an invaluable support system that always reminds me why I do this work.”

Dolores first learned about SDHF through Sue Reynolds, a respected figure in the field, and over time watched the Federation grow into a dynamic force for good. She feels a deep connection to the Federation, especially as a volunteer mentor in the Affordable Housing Management Academy, where she has the opportunity to guide and inspire the next generation of housing professionals. “Being a mentor is one of the most rewarding parts of my work with the Federation. Watching young professionals step into their own roles and knowing I had a small part in that—it’s an honor.”

Her commitment to SDHF runs deep, with one particular moment standing out above the rest. Dolores was once nominated for the John Craven Public Service Memorial Award, a recognition she holds close to her heart. “I had the honor of working closely with John Craven. He was a mentor, a friend, and an inspiration. Being nominated for an award that bears his name—that’s a memory I’ll carry forever,” Dolores shares, her voice filled with pride and gratitude.

Through the years, SDHF has not only provided Dolores with career support but has also empowered her to contribute to meaningful changes in her community. The Federation’s conferences, events, and advocacy initiatives have equipped her with the tools and connections to face new challenges head-on. “SDHF is our collective voice—our choir—for advocacy, professional development, and training,” she says. “When we unite, our impact becomes exponentially greater.”

As we celebrate the voices and journeys that have brought us this far, we invite you to join our “With You All the Way” campaign to keep this vital work alive. Your donation supports programs that empower housing leaders like Dolores to make San Diego a place where everyone has access to affordable housing. Every contribution helps strengthen the community we’ve built and ensures we’re here for future generations.

Please consider donating to the San Diego Housing Federation today. Together, with your support, we can continue to build a more inclusive, supportive housing landscape for all.