Amy Arambula is a Catalyst for Transformative Change as a Philanthropic Funder

For philanthropist Amy Arambula, charitable giving has woven itself into the fabric of her life – it's as natural and instinctive as breathing. Donating to philanthropic causes is a joint venture for Amy and husband of 50 years, former California State Assemblyman Juan Arambula.  

The couple feels that because of the many blessings they have received throughout their lives, they have a tremendous calling to invest in their community. “My husband frequently talked to students and other groups about how we are warmed by fires that we did not build,” Amy said. “We have been very fortunate in our lives and feel the moral obligation to pay it forward.” 

For Amy, there was no question on primarily supporting local organizations versus large-scale national entities. “The need is great here in the Central Valley; it’s where we can have the most impact,” she said. “We’re able to see transformation because we’re able to closely follow the organizations. Their missions are so essential to improving the quality of life for so many folks in the Central Valley that struggle every day.” Moreover, the Arambula’s concern for the region has shaped their local giving. “The Central Valley is not called the ‘Appalachia of the West’ for nothing; there is a lot of potential here,” Amy said.   

The Arambulas are passionate about supporting a variety of causes, including improving health care access, immigrant rights, uplifting people out of poverty, and education. The couple tries to focus on nontraditional organizations that are not always noticed by people with the capacity to give. “Most of the organizations we support are led by people of color, within communities of color, or specifically target improving the lives of those living in poverty within those populations,” Amy said.  

The couple is enthused about supporting the next generation of leaders. It is coincidental but not unexpected that many of the aspiring trailblazers that lead these organizations are women. “We’re happy to support women as emerging leaders doing their best to move the needle forward,” Amy said.  

In 2021, the Arambulas established the Siembra Fund at CVCF. Siembra translates to “sowing,” with the intent of the fund to help pave successful paths for promising leaders. “Before you harvest, you must plan,” Amy said. “For us, it’s investing in a better future — a new generation of leaders for the Valley, who think strategically and motivate others to act collectively to propel change, reflecting the diversity of our region.” 

In her professional life, Amy also strives to create transformative change for the Valley. Amy obtained her law degree in 2000, using her skills as a lawyer to work on policy and legislative issues. She is dedicated to ensuring that people in urban areas have access to quality health care. 

Amy has hope for the future of local philanthropy and the diversification of benefactors. “We, in Fresno, have been blessed in the past with philanthropists, including the Eatons and many others who have generously supported organizations,” Amy said. She is proud to see a notable increase of locally-rooted Latino philanthropists with broad impact. 

Amy’s advice for those interested in giving back to the Central Valley is to not delay donating because vital needs are being unmet. “We can’t give up and put our heads in the sand and hope inequities will just go away,” she said. “It takes a village to raise a child; it also takes a village to raise up a community. To those who are given much, much is expected.”  

To learn more about CVCF’s giving opportunities or individual funds of personal interest, visit the donor webpage or contact Senior Philanthropy Officer Caty Perez at 559-226-5600 or Caty@centralvalleycf.org.