José R. Padilla began his 44-year career with California Rural Legal Assistance (CRLA) Inc., 38 of those years included him as the state director of CRLA. It was there José advocated for farm workers and rural communities by creating community-based programs to uplift marginalized groups, including Indigenous communities, LGBTQ+ communities, and dairy workers. His experience also includes serving as the vice-chair of the Poverty & Race Research Action Council, as well as on the National Legal Aid & Defender Association Board of Directors, where he served as board chair in 2008.

“Water has always been a part of my advocacy for rural and farming communities. As a board member of the Water Foundation, I get to bring that expertise and experience to water challenges and opportunities across the country. I am glad to be able to join a group of like-minded advocates who also bring thoughts of justice and equity to such an important issue to communities in need all over the country.”