Stockton's mayoral race has a new, notable contender: Jessica Velez, a legal assistant turned advocate, whose remarkable life story and dedication to public service have set her apart as a candidate of resilience and passion.
Born in 1977 in Eastern Washington to a Vietnam Veteran father and a mother with a debilitating birth defect, Velez's early life was shaped by her mother's perseverance in the face of adversity. This resilience was evident in her academic achievements at St. Marys High School, where she graduated with a 3.9 GPA and the Presidential Academic Achievement Award.
Velez's career as a legal assistant offered her a deep dive into various law sectors. However, her move to Denver marked a challenging phase as a single mother, where she confronted personal struggles, including two DUIs. These trials led to a pivotal decision to prioritize her children and overcome destructive habits.
Returning to Stockton in 2016, Velez managed the Glendora Apartments, tirelessly working to improve living conditions and reduce crime. Despite facing a setback with an arrest for carrying an unregistered firearm and subsequent unemployment and homelessness, Velez's resilience never waned.
Her calling became clear following a heartfelt encounter with a homeless woman in Stockton. This experience ignited Velez's passion for addressing homelessness and foster youth issues. Her proactive approach led to drafting a residential life skill training program and a mentorship initiative, catching the attention of Mayor Lincoln's office. However, her experience on the homelessness committee was marred by frustration over the lack of action.
In 2021, Velez founded Red Rabbit Advocacy, a nonprofit focusing on services for the homeless. Her hands-on experience and collaborations with city leaders and organizations highlight her commitment to meaningful change.
Velez's campaign for mayor is driven by a vision of transformative action for Stockton. She emphasizes the need for regulated locations and effective strategies to support the indigent community and foster economic partnerships to revitalize Stockton's economy and citizenry.
As the mayoral race heats up, Jessica Velez stands out as a candidate with a unique blend of life experiences and a genuine commitment to making a difference in Stockton. Her journey from facing personal challenges to advocating for change is a testament to her strength and dedication to public service.
To learn more about Jessica Velez and her campaign, visit her official website.
