SAN DIEGO, CA – (October 17, 2025) Family Health Centers of San Diego (FHCSD) hosted its fourth and final Spirit of the Barrio luncheon of 2025 on Friday, October 17, 2025, bringing together about 350 community members to explore how building a stronger workforce benefits everyone and helps the community thrive.
The luncheon featured a panel of local leaders and experts who discussed practical solutions, perspectives and actionable insights on expanding the region’s workforce and creating pathways to meaningful careers.
The discussion was moderated by Dr. Sunita “Sunny” Cooke, superintendent/president of MiraCosta Community College District. Panelists included:
- Rachel Bereza, President & CEO, San Diego Workforce Partnership
- Mark Cafferty, President & CEO, San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation
- Paul Vota, Senior Director of Strategic Programs, Blue Shield of California Promise
Guests also heard inspiring stories from Dyran Whitaker and Hana Mohamed, graduates of FHCSD’s Laura Rodriguez Medical Assistant Institute (LRMAI), who shared how education and community support shaped their journeys into health care careers.
During the event, Cox Communications announced a $106,000 grant to support the launch of FHCSD’s new Licensed Vocational Nursing (LVN) program. The investment will expand the organization’s existing medical assistant training into a full LVN pathway, creating more opportunities for individuals to pursue health care careers.
Blue Shield of California Promise also reaffirmed its commitment to workforce development by announcing an $80,000 gift to support LRMAI students.
Attendees enjoyed a vibrant performance by San Diego Ballet Folklorico, whose colorful energy set a celebratory tone for the afternoon.
Meredith Johnston, vice president of development at FHCSD, served as master of ceremonies.
«As always, this event leaves us awed and humbled by the way San Diego comes together to support our mission and engage in important conversations,» Johnston said. «The enthusiasm from the community to explore meaningful workforce development, accessible career training, and opportunity creation for all was palpable, and our panelists left us all more informed and inspired. I can’t wait to kick off our 40th year of this special community event in 2026.»
FHCSD also recognized community organizations and businesses that helped make the luncheon possible, including U.S. Bank, Rancho Mesa Insurance Services, Whiting-Turner, Community Health Group, JLL, EDCO, the Port of San Diego, AMR, Blue Shield of California Promise, RAM Construction and Scripps Health.
The 2026 Spirit of the Barrio season will celebrate the event’s 40th anniversary, beginning Friday, February 20, 2026, and continuing to foster dialogue, connection and community impact across San Diego.
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About Spirit of the Barrio
Since 1986, the Spirit of the Barrio luncheon has helped raise awareness of Family Health Centers of San Diego’s mission to deliver high-quality health care to underserved communities across the region. The event features a variety of timely topics and a diverse lineup of guest speakers, offering attendees the opportunity to be informed, educated and entertained — all while enjoying FHCSD’s signature tamales.
About Family Health Centers of San Diego
Since 1970, FHCSD’s mission has been to provide caring, affordable, high-quality health care and supportive services to everyone, with a special commitment to uninsured, low-income and medically underserved persons. FHCSD is one of the top 10 largest federally qualified health centers in the country, operating more than 90 sites across San Diego County and providing care to more than 227,000 patients each year, of whom 91% are low-income and 29% are uninsured.
