EMPOWERING COMPTON
THROUGH ADVOCACY
WHERE WE STARTED
In 2019, driven by a deep concern for our community's future, Founder Candace Leos Valdepena embarked on a mission to make a difference. Recognizing the pressing issues within our local infrastructure, Candace took it upon herself to become well-versed in the intricacies of local politics. Her journey began with extensive research, active participation in council meetings, and heartfelt conversations with fellow residents. It quickly became evident that the challenges facing Compton were deeply rooted, spanning decades of history and governance. These issues were often passed down from one administration to the next, perpetuating a cycle of neglect.
OUR MISSION
At Compton Advocates, our mission is clear: to empower and uplift the residents of Compton and surrounding communities through a dynamic blend of events and resources. We cultivate unity, inspire action, and nurture a passion for education. With community at our core, we recognize that meaningful change requires collaboration. Together, as Compton Advocates, we're committed to reshaping our city's narrative and building a brighter tomorrow for all.
PIONEERING CHANGE, TOGETHER
At Compton Advocates, we firmly hold the conviction that changing the narrative starts with a united effort. We are committed to fostering productive relationships with our elected officials, working collaboratively to address the pressing concerns of our city. By creating a platform for open dialogue and constructive engagement, we aim to bridge the gap between governance and the governed. We understand that a healthy community is the cornerstone of progress, and we're dedicated to laying that foundation through our tireless advocacy efforts.
ARE YOU READY TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE?
The question isn't whether change is possible—it's whether you're ready to be a part of it. Join us in shaping the future of Compton. Become a catalyst for transformation, an advocate for progress, and a voice that can no longer be ignored. Whether you're a long-time resident or new to the community, your involvement matters. Together, we can overcome the challenges of the past and create a vibrant, thriving Compton for generations to come.
Connect with Compton Advocates today and be a force for change. Together, we are Compton's advocates for a brighter tomorrow.
OUR TEAM
Candace Leos Valdepena
Founder & Executive Director
Candace Leos Valdepeña is a proud Compton native, community advocate, nonprofit leader, and public service professional committed to educating, empowering, and mobilizing communities. In 2019, she began organizing community meetings to connect residents with information, resources, and opportunities for civic engagement. Later that year, she founded the Compton Advocates Coalition, a nonprofit dedicated to educating, activating, and empowering residents while fostering positive change in Compton and surrounding communities.
Candace serves on the Women’s Commission for California’s 65th Assembly District, the board of Alma Backyard Farms and the board of the League of Women Voters of Greater Los Angeles. In 2025, Candace graduated from the inaugural HOPE Regional Leadership Program, further strengthening her commitment to community-centered leadership and civic engagement. Professionally, Candace is a Subcontractor Administrator with the Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA), supporting community-based organizations providing critical immigration legal services throughout Southern and Central California.
A 2020 TEDx Compton Blvd Fearless Women speaker, Candace was honored as the 2026 Woman of the Year for California State Assembly District 65 and recognized at the California State Capitol for her community leadership and service.
Mercedes Flores
Secretary | Compliance
Mercedes is a Compton native and first-generation college graduate. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Family Life Education and a Master’s degree in Recreation Administration, both degrees from California State University Long Beach.
Mercedes currently works as an Instructor/Facilitator for Project HEARTS (Healthy Exploration of Adolescent Relationships Training and Strategies) at EntreNous Youth Empowerment Services teaching a Healthy Relationships curriculum to youth between the ages of 14 and 19.
As a community leader, Mercedes serves as the Secretary of Compton Advocates, a member of the CA 64th Assembly District Women's Commission, was the recipient of the 2019 Positive Coach of the Year Award through the Dodgers RBI program and Positive Coaching Alliance, and was a speaker for TEDxComptonBlvd Women, Fearless. You can find her TED talk, “It Takes A Community,” on YouTube.
In her free time, she enjoys traveling with her husband, going to concerts, spending time with family, and visiting Universal Studios as an Annual Pass Member.
Iliana Rodriguez
Director, Communications
Iliana Rodriguez provides communications support for Compton Advocates. She currently works as a Communications manager and holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration from California State University, Long Beach.
In her free time Iliana enjoys volunteering, practices roller-skating, and enjoys spending time with her family.