The 2025 Adult Legislative Program, led by Senator Anna Caballero, provided a valuable opportunity for community members across the district to explore how government works and how their voices can shape public policy. Through five dynamic sessions, participants learned about local, state, and federal governance, engaged directly with public officials, and built confidence in navigating civic institutions.
Watch these videos for an overview of ALP:
Session Highlights
Session 1:
Local Government Who Runs the Show
Participants received a comprehensive introduction to city governance from Senate District 14’s District Director and Mayor of Soledad, Anna Velazquez. The session covered the structure of city councils, responsibilities of elected officials, how city budgets reflect community values, and why civic participation is essential to healthy local government. Attendees walked away understanding how city decisions directly affect daily life.
Session 2:
Introduction to Federal and State Government
This session featured welcome remarks from Senator Anna Caballero and offered an overview of the federal and state governance structures. Participants learned about the roles of Central Valley representatives, how laws at these levels influence local communities, and how residents can communicate effectively with their elected leaders.
Session 3:
County Government and Public School Boards
Participants examined how county governments function and how school boards shape education policy. Topics included the structure of Boards of Supervisors, the public meeting and budget process, and how to identify and contact county and school board representatives. The session emphasized the importance of participation in county and school board decisions that influence essential services and educational outcomes.
Session 4:
Mock City Council Hearing at Fresno City Hall
This in person session gave participants the opportunity to experience a mock city council hearing inside the Fresno City Council Chambers. They reviewed agenda items, delivered public comments, and gained a practical understanding of how council meetings are conducted. The experience provided insight into how to engage effectively in local decision making.
Session 5:
Government Tours and Graduation Ceremony
The final session began with a guided tour at the Fresno County Hall of Records led by Fresno County Supervisor Brian Pacheco, who provided an overview of county operations and the responsibilities of the Board of Supervisors. Participants then visited the Hugh Burns State Building for a tour and conversation with Assemblymember Dr Joaquin Arambula, where they explored the work being done at the state level on behalf of Central Valley communities.
The day concluded with a memorable graduation ceremony attended by Madera County Supervisor Leticia Gonzalez and Mayor of Kerman Maria Pacheco, who helped make the celebration meaningful and special.
Special Thanks:
The program was enriched and elevated thanks to the generous support of several leaders:
- City Councilwoman Annalisa Perea for securing the Fresno City Council Chambers and supporting the Mock City Council Meeting
- Supervisor Brian Pacheco for providing the county operations tour and sharing his insights on the work of the Fresno County Board of Supervisors
- Assemblymember Dr Joaquin Arambula for welcoming participants into his office, leading an engaging discussion, and offering a behind the scenes look at state level governance
- Madera County Supervisor Leticia Gonzalez and Mayor of Kerman Maria Pacheco for attending the graduation ceremony and helping make the day especially meaningful
And a heartfelt thank you to the dedicated Senate District 14 staff who worked tirelessly to make this program a success: District Director Anna Velazquez, Communications Director Elisa Rivera, Fresno Field Representatives Luis Martinez and David Santos, and Merced Field Representatives Joyce Dale, Joe Ballas, Diana Westmoreland Pedrozo, and Arturo Martinez. Their commitment, preparation, and leadership made each session meaningful and impactful for all participants.
Closing Reflection
Thank you to every participant who completed the 2025 Adult Legislative Program. Your commitment to learning, leadership, and civic engagement strengthens our democracy and uplifts our communities. This program demonstrated how informed community members can influence policy, hold elected officials accountable, and champion change.
Senator Caballero and the District 14 team are proud of your accomplishments and excited to see the impact you will continue to make in the years ahead.
