Suggestions
Camille Llanes-Fontanilla
Executive Director at Somos Mayfair
Professional Background
Camille Fontanilla is a highly esteemed Executive Director of SOMOS Mayfair, a community-driven organization dedicated to fostering sustainable solutions for the residents of East San Jose. With an impressive tenure that spans over 16 years in the nonprofit sector, Camille has harnessed her comprehensive understanding of community needs and assets to cultivate a unique organizational culture that prioritizes resident-led initiatives. At the helm of SOMOS Mayfair, she has been instrumental in orchestrating significant growth, transforming the organization into a beacon of hope and empowerment for local families.
Throughout her leadership, Camille has successfully raised over $25 million, which has been pivotal in furthering SOMOS Mayfair’s mission and expanding its outreach. Her journey began as Associate Director at the same organization, where her relentless drive and passion for community service quickly propelled her into the executive role. Under her stewardship, SOMOS Mayfair has established deep-rooted partnerships with various stakeholders, ensuring that the voices of local residents are not just heard, but integrated into the fabric of program development.
Education and Achievements
Camille’s academic credentials reflect her commitment to understanding the complexities of public service and community advocacy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Mass Communications with a minor in Ethnic Studies from the prestigious University of California, Berkeley. This foundational education has equipped her with the necessary skills to communicate effectively and promote social justice, cultural preservation, and community engagement. Furthermore, she enriched her knowledge and leadership capabilities by achieving a Master’s degree in Public Administration from San Jose State University.
Her commitment to personal development is evidenced by her participation in numerous esteemed training programs, such as executive training at Harvard Business School, which underscores her dedication to visionary leadership, strategic thinking, and effective management in the nonprofit realm. Additionally, she has enriched her leadership approach through programs like CompassPoint's Next Generation Leaders of Color, Rockwood's Art of Leadership, and On the Verge, programs designed to empower leaders of color in the nonprofit sector.
Service and Leadership
Camille’s influence extends beyond SOMOS Mayfair. She actively serves on the Board of Directors for The Health Trust and SPUR San Jose, two organizations committed to enhancing community health and promoting sustainable urban development. Her influence in the nonprofit landscape is further evidenced by her role as a founding member of the Si Se Puede Collective, which focuses on mobilizing resources and community initiatives. Additionally, she plays an integral role in the leadership and policy teams for the East San Jose PEACE Partnership and the Silicon Valley Council of Nonprofits, advocating for innovative policies that uplift underrepresented communities.
Camille's legacy is characterized by her authentic engagement with the community, as she works alongside neighbors to address pressing social justice issues. Her passion for collaborative problem-solving has been instrumental in co-creating programs that empower residents and build a brighter future for all.
Personal Life
Born and raised in East San Jose, Camille has a profound connection to her community, a connection that fuels her motivation and dedication to her work. Together with her husband, Ryan, she is raising two young children in this vibrant community, instilling in them the same values of community service and social justice that drive her work. She understands the importance of nurturing not only the present but also the future of the community she cherishes so deeply. As a household name in East San Jose, Camille Fontanilla's journey resonates with those who aspire to effect meaningful change in their neighborhoods and beyond.
Achievements
Some of Camille's notable achievements include:
- Raising over $25 million in funding for SOMOS Mayfair, facilitating impactful community programs.
- Building a culture of collaboration and community involvement within the organization.
- Leading SOMOS Mayfair through significant growth during her tenure.
- Serving on the Board of Directors for The Health Trust and SPUR San Jose, contributing to critical health and urbanism initiatives.
- Founding member of the Si Se Puede Collective, promoting grassroots organization and empowerment.
- Participation in leadership programs at Harvard Business School and CompassPoint, enhancing her capabilities as a nonprofit leader.
