The Social Work Entrepreneur

René Castro, MSW, is the Principal and Founder of Facilitation Corps--a mission driven consulting firm whose purpose is to connect traditionally marginalized communities with the institutions designed to serve them. A community social worker, educator and advocate, Rene brings 30 years of experience in the non-profit and government sectors.

Rene currently serves on the board of the Long Beach based Economic Policy Impact Center and previously served as Co-Chair for the Mayor's Affordable Housing Task Force and Chair of Mental Health America, Los Angeles. He lives with his wife, Elizabeth Jimenez in Long Beach, California.

Rene's personal mission is to foster health equity for all Californians.

Victor Manalo is a seasoned civic leader and social work professional with over three decades of experience shaping policy, managing public resources, and empowering communities. With a distinguished track record in municipal leadership and regional collaboration, Victor brings unparalleled expertise in how local governments operate—and how to get things done within them.

As a former Mayor and Councilmember for the City of Artesia, Victor led the city through the turbulence of the Great Recession, ultimately building up budget reserves and implementing forward-looking fiscal policy. His tenure included serving as President of the California Contract Cities Association, where he represented the interests of over 70 contract cities throughout Los Angeles County, deepening his understanding of municipal contracting and intergovernmental relations.

Victor has held key appointments to regional boards and commissions that drive public service delivery, including the Los Angeles County Behavioral Health Commission, the South East Los Angeles County Workforce Development Board, the Southern California Association of Governments, and League of California Cities policy committees. These roles gave him a front-row seat to how cities coordinate public works, public health, and economic development across jurisdictions.

Victor's over 25-years of academic teaching and research at California State University, Los Angeles and his recent consulting work in the community further reflect his dedication to building civic capacity. Through Victor Manalo Consulting LLC, he provides training and strategic guidance to local government staff, nonprofit leaders, and advocates seeking to influence public systems. He teaches his students and clients how to work with elected officials, understand municipal budgets and governance, and co-create solutions with communities.

A powerful communicator and relationship-builder, Victor regularly presents on the topic of "navigating local government" and is widely recognized for his belief that "relationships are our superpower."

Outside of work, Victor is a devoted Los Angeles Kings season ticket holder and a fan of 80s rock and pop and contemporary country music. He and his wife, Monica, have been married for over 34 years, and they enjoy keeping up with their three adult children.