Irene Hernandez-Blair, Chaffey College board challenger

My name is Irene Hernandez-Blair. I reside in Chino and I'm running for the Chaffey Community College Governing Board because I want to ensure equal outreach and equal opportunities for higher education to all the youth of our communities. In addition, with the high unemployment rate, it's also important to have courses available to unemployed adults who may find that they need a degree in order to gain the necessary skills required to compete in today's ever-changing workforce.

I realize that community college budgets have been significantly reduced, but considering other possibilities such as trade certificate programs offered by local unions is a viable option for higher learning. Another possibility is the building of partnerships with private businesses where student/employees could earn certificates via work place educational programs. Seeking such alternatives provide nothing less than successful benefits for the community as a whole.

I believe that it is time to reinvest in our youth and in our community. Higher education is no longer a luxury, it's a necessity. Without a college education, our youth are depriving themselves of the opportunity of strong self-sufficiency. All students should be encouraged into higher education no matter their ZIP code, background or limited income. Outreach efforts should also include average students and at-risk students because community college could be the arena in which these young adults flourish. Our lack of encouragement could end up costing us more in their lifetimes if we were to ignore the fact that a higher education is essential for all the youth of our communities.

I'm a mother, wife and committed community member who strongly believes that change is necessary because the college-going rate in some Assembly Districts is not acceptable. Communities thrive when education is placed in the forefront, and that's exactly what I intend to do with your help. If elected, I plan to conduct forums where high school seniors will be provided with all the benefits of a community college education. In addition, parents should be assisted in learning about the affordability of community college and assistance in understanding the availability of financial aid options.

Times are changing, so it's time for a "new" voice for the youth of our community and the students of Chaffey Community College. On Nov. 3 please vote for Irene Hernandez-Blair -- No. 1 on the ballot!

Endorsed by several well-respected elected officials and strongly supported by labor unions. www.vote4ihb.com
Irene Hernandez-Blair
Chino