It is with profound sadness that La Familia Counseling Center, Inc. acknowledges the passing of Anita Ramos Barnes, a visionary leader and one of the most impactful architects of our agency’s legacy. Anita’s dedication, compassion, and relentless pursuit of equity and opportunity have left an indelible mark on our community, inspiring generations to strive for a brighter future.

As one of the original staff members of La Familia Counseling Center, Inc. Anita’s journey was rooted in her deep commitment to serving others and fostering empowerment through culturally responsive services. From the early days of working with youth and families at the Washington Neighborhood Center in the Alkali Flat neighborhood, to leading the agency into becoming a comprehensive Family Resource Center, Anita’s leadership was driven by her passion for social justice and her belief in the power of community.

During her remarkable 39-year tenure, Anita started as a staff member and became the Executive Director, transforming La Familia from a small program into a thriving hub for mental health services, youth empowerment, career readiness, and cultural celebration. She often described La Familia as a quilt, where every person who walked through its doors left their handprint, enriching the fabric of our shared experience. Her vision was clear: to create a safe space where all individuals, regardless of background or status, could find support, dignity, and hope.

Anita’s story is one of resilience and courage. Born into a migrant family, she faced the barriers of language and systemic discrimination, yet she never allowed those challenges to define her. Instead, she became a trailblazer, leveraging her personal experiences to advocate for inclusivity and equal opportunities. She was a visionary, and in 1978, alongside Executive Director Zaida Fernandez, she co-authored the Enchilada Approach to Re-Awakening Therapy—a foundational primer on cultural responsiveness in mental health which has since been researched and continues to be used as our Community Defined Evidence Practice.

Anita’s words and actions continue to resonate: “We are a mosaic, where our unique cultures, languages, and stories come together to create something beautiful.” It is this vision that remains the cornerstone of La Familia Counseling Center’s mission today.

We are forever grateful for Anita’s contributions to our agency and the community. Her legacy of hope, empowerment, and unwavering love for others will live on in every life she touched. As we reflect on her remarkable journey, we honor her memory by continuing the work she so passionately dedicated her life to.

Rest in peace, Anita. Your light will forever guide us.

With deepest respect and gratitude,

Rick Brandsma – Chairman of the Board & Rachel Rios – Executive Director

La Familia Counseling Center