Ismael Castro Email and Phone Number

Supported the Ending the HIV Epidemic: A Plan for America, focused on reducing HIV transmissions in LA County through community-led policy change projects. Collaborated with key stakeholders, community partners, and the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health to drive impactful change, shaping program structure and developing tailored curriculum. Led the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health’s Community Health Worker (CHW) Outreach Initiative to increase COVID-19 education and vaccination rates in impacted East Los Angeles and San Gabriel Valley neighborhoods of LA County. Coordinated education efforts, managed a team of 70 CHWs, and facilitated culturally competent outreach and vaccination clinics through partnerships with local business, churches, and community organizations. Managed four coalitions and over 30 organizations under The California Endowment's Building Healthy Communities Boyle Heights Initiative, driving policy and systems change to improve health outcomes through youth development, school climate, health and food access, and equitable development, driving tangible impacts at local, regional, and statewide levels.

Led community and school outreach, policy engagement, and education initiatives in Downtown Los Angeles, Boyle Heights, Lincoln Heights, El Sereno, Eagle Rock, and Southeast Los Angeles focused on policy efforts promoting and impacting LGBTQ+ health. Co-Chaired the Health Happens with Prevention Workgroup under The California Endowment's Building Healthy Communities Boyle Heights Initiative. Collaborated with arts, legal, faith, and health organizations to improve mental health access and secure funding for preventive care, focusing on low-income, uninsured populations across Los Angeles County.