Welcome to VIDA!


About VIDA

VIDA's mission is to empower all students to become agents of change in their communities and beyond; to foster education that meets the needs of the communities we serve; and to help develop pathways to meaningful participation in local, state, and federal government decision-making processes.

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VIDA office is now OPEN TO ALL!

Our office is open from Monday to Thursday, from 10 am to 5pm


VIDA is hiring paid interns for the for the 2025-2026 academic year

We are committed to providing opportunities for students to build their skills and knowledge outside of the classroom. Like volunteers, paid interns commit and take on leadership roles, but are accountable for major responsibilities in the projects/campaigns they are placed on. The ultimate goal is to build student power and be agents of change.

Participating students will take 10 hours a week of fieldwork, weekly team meetings, training and mentorship. Also students must have completed, or be currently enrolled in our Certificate in Leadership and Social Change.

are due 5pm on May 16th, 2025

For more detailed information surrounding our paid internships and the application process please visit : VIDA Internships

Inquiries surrounding the internship or application process, please contact VIDA/HEFAS Program Coordinator, Dani Plascencia Delgado at plascenciadelgadodaniela@fhda.edu


Stand Up for Black Lives and Against White Supremacy

Young Black man wearing a face mask and holding a cardboard sign that says "Black Lives Matter" at an outdoor public demonstrationVIDA stands with those around the country, and the world, who are protesting the murder of George Floyd, and other Black people who have recently been murdered by the police.


 We need to keep fighting for change until the police no longer serve the interests of white supremacy. White supremacy remains a core part of every aspect of our society, from who gets loans for homes, to who is protected from COVID-19, to who is protected by police, and who is murdered by them. We will not stop our work until no more Black and Brown people are murdered by the police. We will not stop our work until White Supremacy is completely uprooted from our society. 


Engaged Learning

If you are looking for a community partner for your service learning class, visit our Engaged Learning webpage.


Donate to VIDA

students at state capitolVIDA could not exist without generous supporters who believe in the power of civic engagement. After the death of Senator Vasconcellos,  VIDA received an extraordinary pledge to perpetuate the vision of the Institute of Community and Civic Engagement. Community members Jim and Becky Morgan pledged a challenge grant of $198,000 over three years in honor of Senator Vasconcellos' long history of civic work. Your gift will help the program match their generous donation.

Important information to direct your gift to VIDA: 
 
  • Click the "Donate Now" button below.
  • Fill out the form with your information.
  • Under Program, choose "Other."
  • Type "VIDA" in the box and the amount you would like to donate.
For more information, contact Robin Latta at the Foothill-°®¶¹´«Ã½ Foundation by emailing lattarobin@fhda.edu

Connect with us

Building: East Cottage

Director:

  • Email: kaufmancynthia@deanza.edu
  • Phone: 408.864.8739
  • Office Hours: Mondays 9 -10am (online) and Thursdays 4:30 - 5:30pm (in person). 
  • Book an Appointment:
  • Or by appointment via email

Program Coordinator: Dani Plascencia Delgado

  • Email:  plascenciadelgadodaniela@fhda.edu
  • Phone: 408.864.8993
  • Office Hours: Monday 1-3pm (online) and Thursday 1-3pm (in person).
  • Book an Appointment: Appointment via email

Student Staff: vidaofficestaff@gmail.com

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