Empowering Southeast Fresno’s Community & Economy

SEFCEDA is a dedicated platform advancing the quality of life for all residents and local businesses. From construction job placement to securing funding for small businesses, we drive sustainable growth where it matters most.
ABOUT

Driven by Mission. Rooted in Community.

For years, SEFCEDA has been working directly on the ground to transform Southeast Fresno’s economic and environmental landscape from the inside out.

Southeast Fresno Community Economic Development Association (SEFCEDA) was founded on a simple, powerful belief: every resident and small business deserves the resources, infrastructure, and opportunities to thrive. We bridge the gap between community needs and structural funding by driving impactful workforce programs, securing business grants, and creating vibrant public green spaces.

We don’t just advocate for change—we actively build it alongside local families, city partners, and regional stakeholders to ensure long-term, generational prosperity.

Grants & Funding Secured
$ 0 K+
Local Residents Trained & Employed
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Grants & Funding Secured
0 -Acres

Our Mission & Core Priorities

Building healthy, wealthy, and sustainable neighborhoods in Southeast Fresno through dedicated action.

The Mission

Our mission is to improve the quality of life in Southeast Fresno and promote economic prosperity by expanding opportunities in education, recreation, employment, housing, and entrepreneurship.

Our Core Priorities

The SEFCEDA Board has locked in two major infrastructural pillars to transform our community: Workforce Development (to accelerate local employment) and the creation of a premier Regional Park and Soccer Complex

Professional
Governance & Trust

Our Board of Directors is uniquely built from the community itself. We are a unified group of Southeast Fresno residents, economic development specialists, financial advisors, educators, attorneys, and grant writers donating our expertise for real local impact.

Hands-On Humanitarian Aid

Beyond structural economic development, we believe in immediate care. We actively manage a local humanitarian grocery distribution program and lead routine neighborhood cleanup projects to keep our streets healthy and safe.

Our Pillars of Transformation

Tailored community platforms designed to address poverty and uplift the local ecosystem.

Workforce
Development

Providing low-income residents with technical job placement and hands-on training in construction industries to scale earning capacity.

Small Business Technical Assistance

Helping local entrepreneurs apply for small business grants, secure loans, and access our Facade Improvement Program to beautify storefronts.

Community & Urban Greenery

Leading the development of a 49-acre Regional Park and Soccer Complex to improve local health, air quality, and recreational opportunities.

CURRENT LANDMARK PROJECT

Transforming 49 Vacant Acres Into a Regional Soccer Complex

Through heavy volunteer recruitment and intensive community outreach, we’ve ready the grounds for tree planting and advanced urban planning. This multi-phase project guarantees low-income families a dedicated space for health and community bonding.

Our Impact in Focus

Tailored community platforms designed to address poverty and uplift the local ecosystem.

Our Leadership & Governance

Meet the dedicated specialists, educators, and community leaders driving economic and structural transformation in Southeast Fresno.

Stories of Local Resilience

SEFCEDA helped me navigate the complex process of applying for commercial grants. Their Facade Improvement program gave my small business a fresh look that actively attracts new customers daily.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is SEFCEDA and what is its core purpose?

SEFCEDA is a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening Southeast Fresno through community development, economic growth, affordable housing, and neighborhood revitalization.

Eligibility varies by program. Residents, business owners, nonprofits, and community partners are encouraged to contact us to learn about available opportunities.

The Regional Park and Soccer Complex is an ongoing community initiative. Updates on project progress and milestones are shared as they become available.

SEFCEDA is funded through grants, partnerships, and other approved funding sources. We are committed to transparency and responsible financial stewardship.

Residents can get involved by attending community events, volunteering, partnering with us, or supporting local initiatives. Contact us to learn more.

Marina Valentine

Marina Valentine is an Employment Specialist with SEFCEDA who is passionate about helping individuals connect with meaningful employment opportunities and achieve their career goals. She works closely with job seekers and local employers to build strong workforce partnerships while providing guidance, resources, and support throughout the job search process. Marina is committed to serving her community with compassion, professionalism, and dedication, helping others gain the confidence and skills needed to succeed in today’s workforce.

Vic Lucero

Job Placement Director

Vic brings years of professional experience and years of management, business development and sales experience to SEFCEDA, He has worked in helping bring economic prosperity to Fresno by helping clients find full time employment and start small businesses. He has helped develop business plans, projections and cash flow analysis for his clients, and as job development director has organized job fairs and workshops, often partnering with other non products as United Way.

Iris Cruz

As the Intake Specialist and Outreach Coordinator at SEFCEDA, I am passionate about connecting individuals with the resources and opportunities they need to achieve their employment goals. I assist clients through the intake process, build relationships within the community, and help connect job seekers with workforce development programs. I take pride in creating a welcoming experience while supporting SEFCEDA’s mission of empowering individuals and strengthening our community.