Since joining the SFCHC Board of Directors in 2021, Arlene Rodriguez has been a passionate advocate for removing barriers to healthcare for some of the most underserved communities in the San Fernando Valley.
She was first introduced to the clinic through her work at the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP), where she had the opportunity to engage with several community-based organizations. SFCHC’s mission to serve low-income individuals and families immediately resonated with her—especially after seeing firsthand how the health center supported members of her own family during times of need. “That connection made me want to get more involved,” she shared. “It made the work feel personal and important to me.”
What makes SFCHC stand out to Arlene is the comprehensive nature of its services and the cultural respect embedded in its care. “The center offers so many important services all in one place—from primary care and pediatric services to chronic condition management, dental care, OB/GYN and mental health support,” she said. “It also provides health education, case management and HIV prevention services. Most importantly, the staff understands and respects the community it serves, offering care in a welcoming, culturally sensitive environment.”
Professionally, Arlene brings a wealth of experience from the public, private and nonprofit sectors, with a strong focus on operations, community engagement and service-oriented leadership. She currently serves as Utility Executive Assistant in Corporate Environmental Affairs at LADWP and previously worked as Regional Operations Manager in the Southern California district of a prominent financial services firm. She also has held roles with nonprofits such as City of Hope and the National Childhood Cancer Foundation, where she supported pediatric cancer research, outreach and fundraising efforts across North America.
Arlene’s commitment to service extends well beyond the workplace. She has volunteered with organizations such as Project Angel Food, Habitat for Humanity, March of Dimes, and the Department of Recreation and Parks. Whether supporting patients, building homes or raising funds for critical causes, Arlene is motivated by a deep desire to make a positive impact in the community.
Outside of her professional and volunteer life, Arlene embraces a sense of adventure. She enjoys outdoor activities that get her adrenaline going—like hiking, camping, off-roading, scuba diving and even skydiving. She’s also passionate about the automotive world, from learning about new car technologies to working on vehicles herself.
She and her husband are the proud parents of four children—three boys and one girl—who keep their lives full of energy, laughter and meaningful moments. “Even something as simple as playing Uber driver for my son feels special and rewarding,” she said. “Life is precious, and every moment and memory counts.”
For Arlene, being part of the SFCHC board is both an honor and a responsibility. “I’m proud to be part of an organization that helps so many people,” she said. “The center doesn’t just give care—it builds trust and supports families. Whether it’s a child receiving their first dental check-up, a mother receiving prenatal care or a patient finding mental health support, it reminds me every day why this work matters.”
