Board Member

Ana G. Aviles – Anderson, ACSW

Ana G. Aviles – Anderson, ACSW, is a passionate advocate for social justice, an artist, and a dedicated member of the Street Academy Board. Born and raised in the vibrant Mission District of San Francisco, Ana's journey in education and community empowerment has taken her on a remarkable path.

Ana's educational roots are deeply tied to the community. In the 9th grade, she relocated to Oakland and attended and graduated from Oakland Emiliano Zapata Street Academy, an experience that laid the foundation for her commitment to social justice.

She pursued her higher education at San Francisco State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) degree. Later, she continued her academic journey at CSU, Stanislaus, where she completed her Master of Social Work (MSW) degree.

In addition to her dedication to education, Ana is a talented artist, marking her artistic journey with her first solo exhibition in 2019, titled "Divine Femenina," held at Galeria Beso Maya in Oakland, California.

Street Academy's influence on Ana's life led her to choose a profession focused on empowering disenfranchised communities. During her undergraduate studies, Ana had the privilege of serving as a Family Advocate at Horace Mann Middle School in the Mission District, a place that held significance as a former student herself. Her work was facilitated through the Instituto Familiar de La Raza organization.

Ana's journey took her to Modesto, California, where she pursued her master's degree and engaged in qualitative research within rural farm-working communities. After completing graduate school, she joined El Concilio in Stockton/Modesto, working as a community outreach educator and organizer, primarily serving Spanish-speaking immigrant communities.

Returning to the Bay Area, Ana embarked on a new endeavor as a Mental Health Clinician, specializing in trauma work for immigrant Monolingual Spanish-speaking communities with children with disabilities. Her work empowers parents to be advocates for their children.

Ana currently resides in the peaceful town of Rio Vista along the Sacramento Delta River, alongside her husband, who is a musician. In her personal time, she engages in Spiritual Meso American Healing Practices, while nurturing her creative side through painting and crafting earrings in her home studio. She is also a proud grandmother of six adorable grandchildren.