Dolores came to Alameda from the Philippines when she was three years old and has called the island home ever since. Now in her 70s, she carries deep knowledge and memory of Alameda throughout the years. She remembers what it was like when she first arrived – a tight knit community, kids playing outside all day, and families hailing from all over the world. She still holds dear many of the lifelong friends she’s made throughout her life in Alameda.

Aside from being an expert of Alameda and its history, she also has an extraordinary work history, having a career at AT&T for 41 years – she remembers when it was still called Pacific Telephone. Now in retirement, she calls one of the senior affordable housing complexes near City Hall home and is civically active and engaged. She attends police beat meetings and stays connected with fellow seniors in her complex.

For Dolores, Rise Up Alameda relieved a lot of stress from credit card bills and budgeting decisions. With the money she received over the two-year program, she was able to build a savings account, pay off credit card debt, and engage even more in the community. She volunteers, takes senior center classes, enjoys community events, and treats herself to meals or small trips without worrying about her budget.