History
In 1997, a comprehensive survey was conducted of the Monument community that revealed some alarming statistics. Poverty, unemployment, and crime were just some of the issues in the Monument corridor. Unwilling to let this go unnoticed, Molly Clark stepped in to create a safe haven for people to find work and a better quality of life. Packed into a cramped building in Concord, she lead a hiring hall that ensured quality work and fair wages for about 30 workers. Eventually the members took ownership of the Center shaping it as they moved into the future.
Established in 1999 as a business‐oriented branch of Monument Community Partnership, the Chavez
Center has over 10 years of experience forming connections and building trust in the Monument
Corridor. In 2001, with a vision of delving deeper into the community, we became our own nonprofit
and began operating as a 501(c)(3). Over the years the day labor members gave their input, adding skills
training, ESL classes, and other workshops to help them find long‐term steady employment so they
could provide for their families. From these initial steps, the ambitions of community members have
only grown. Day labor women would meet amongst themselves to do various crafts to raise money.
They would make jewelry and other crafts to sell at various venues. In 2004, they set their sights higher
and began offering computer classes with just a few students. From those first tiny computer classes
came the Technology Empowerment program, which has provided classes, workshops, and lessons to
more than 800 students, a number we project to double in 2011 with our new state of the art computer
lab.
To meet the demand for more career options, the Chavez Center added a Cooperative Development (2008) and Career Development (2010), which create jobs and connect members to careers. The Cooperative Development program has given over 30 members stable employment through the three businesses that have been launched – Green & Clean Professional Housecleaning, Evergreen Landscaping, and Aromas Catering. Committing to fair wages and “green” practices, these businesses not only provide financial security, but also safe working conditions. The Career Development program has also fought the economic climate, finding jobs for community members.
In 2009 we adopted the name, Michael Chavez Center for Economic Opportunity, to both honor the late City of Concord Councilmember Michael Chavez and to reflect our extensive growth in the community.
As we continue to grow, we are forming partnerships with the many organizations that share our passion for social change in the Monument neighborhood.
