Uniting Latino Leaders. Strengthening Democracy.

Uniting Latino Leaders. Strengthening Democracy.

NALEO Educational Fund is the nation’s leading 501(c)(3) non-profit, non-partisan organization that facilitates full Latino participation in the American political process, from citizenship to public service.
What We Do

NALEO Educational Fund engages Latinos and provides national leadership on key issues that affect Latino participation in our political processes, including naturalization and immigration reform, census, and voting rights and election reform.

How We Do It

Building and supporting the capacity of elected and appointed officials, informing and mobilizing community members, and creating and protecting opportunities for Latinos to participate in the political process.

Why We Do It

As the second-largest population group in the U.S., Latinos represent a vibrant part of the American economy and the nation’s future. With a community diverse in political perspective, national origin, and geography, a fully engaged Latino community with strong leaders in government means a better country for all Americans.

History

1976


National Association of Latino Democratic Officials is founded by U.S. Representative Edward R. Roybal who served as President until 1999.

1978


Organization changes its name to NALEO to reflect nonpartisan status and inclusion of all Latino public officials. Articles of Incorporation are signed by U.S. Representatives Edward R. Roybal, Herman Badillo, E. (Kika) de la Garza, and Jaime Benitez.

1981


NALEO Educational Fund is established to carry out mission of increasing Latino political participation in the country; Dr. Harry P. Pachon is named Executive Director of organization and U.S. Rep. Roybal serves as Chair.

1984


NALEO Educational Fund releases its first National Hispanic Roster of Elected Officials, with 3,128 Latinos serving in public office.

1987


NALEO Educational Fund moves its headquarters from Washington, D.C. to Los Angeles, Calif.

1994


Arturo Vargas is named Executive Director of NALEO Educational Fund.

2016


NALEO Educational Fund celebrates its 35th anniversary promoting full Latino civic participation and enhancing the leadership abilities of the nation’s Latino public servants.

2025


Erica Bernal-Martinez becomes first Latina named Chief Executive Officer of NALEO and NALEO Educational Fund.