On April 15, Community Advocates gathered in honor of Founder's Day, a salute to the man who started it all -- Ramon Wagner. Anecdotes of his dedication, determination, and discipline were shared over lunch. Browsing through photo albums from the last 50 years brought back memories of his kindness from those who knew him, and bittersweet admiration for those who wish they did. 

Ramon, a former Catholic priest, founded Community Advocates in 1976 alongside two volunteers in a small storefront on 35th and Burleigh. On April 15, 2005, his passing shook an organization that 20 years ago resembled a family business. A much smaller organization at the time, "Ramon was like a father figure to many who worked for him. He was a fierce solution-driven advocate and community-wide coalition builder," says Andi Elliott, who is honored to continue his vision for Community Advocates. 

Ramon left us too early, but he left us with all the pieces needed to keep working on the puzzle, the tools to nurture a thriving community, and the optimism that together we can do so. His legacy lives on in each family served, each community partnership formed, and each Community Advocates team member who helps community members with their basic needs. 

We carry on knowing Ramon Wagner would be proud of the passion Community Advocates' leaders and change makers have instilled in those who follow in his footsteps. Nearly 50 years since our inception and 20 years since Ramon's passing, Community Advocates serves over 50,000 individuals annually and remains steadfast in our mission: to provide individuals and families with advocacy and services to meet their basic needs so they may live in dignity.