Vision and Passion

José Velázquez is renowned for his exceptional ability to uncover and unlock potential where others only see challenges. A striking example of his visionary leadership is his work as Founder and Principal of The James Lee House in Memphis. This historic National Historic Site was once a dormant symbol of Memphis’s early grandeur and the founding home of the Memphis College of Arts. Under José’s leadership, The James Lee House underwent an ambitious restoration and adaptive reuse, transforming it into an award-winning luxury destination.

This project did more than just breathe new life into a single building; it sparked a remarkable revitalization across the surrounding Medical District. By turning this iconic landmark into a beacon of renewal, José catalyzed a resurgence of community attention and resources. The success of The James Lee House ignited economic and cultural renewal, drawing in investment and sparking a chain reaction of development that breathed new life into downtown Memphis.

José’s work at The James Lee House stands as a testament to his strategic foresight, his ability to mobilize community resources, and his unwavering commitment to restoring cultural heritage while fostering economic growth. This project exemplifies how his vision can transform not just buildings, but entire communities, creating inclusive spaces where history and innovation intersect to shape vibrant futures.

Focus on Equipping

José Velázquez’s tenure as Executive Director of Latino Memphis is a shining example of his steadfast commitment to advancing social justice through collaborative leadership and impactful initiatives. Under his visionary guidance, Latino Memphis evolved into a premier advocacy organization, fostering inclusive alliances among diverse community leaders across Black, Brown, and White communities.
One of the most significant achievements during his time at Latino Memphis was the launch and catalyzation of the Tennessee Immigrant Rights Coalition (TIRC), a grassroots movement that mobilized statewide efforts to advocate for undocumented immigrants. The successful campaign for state driver’s licenses in 2002 is a testament to José’s ability to build coalitions and amplify marginalized voices, driving meaningful policy change that had a direct, positive impact on countless lives.

In partnership with the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and Brandeis University, José spearheaded a groundbreaking study on healthcare access barriers for Latinos in the greater Memphis area. The findings of this study provided compelling evidence for systemic reforms within the region’s largest safety-net healthcare system, The Med. This work set a precedent for intentional and inclusive healthcare practices, showcasing José’s ability to leverage research and advocacy to drive systemic change.

Nationally, José’s leadership extended through his role in the Hablamos Juntos initiative, funded by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. This initiative aimed to transform healthcare access for Latinos and marginalized communities nationwide. José led a multi-million dollar effort in Memphis, pioneering the development of certified language interpreter training programs at the University of Tennessee, Memphis School of Medicine. His work ensured that future healthcare professionals were equipped with crucial linguistic and cultural competencies, setting a new standard for inclusive healthcare practices.

José’s legacy in equipping communities for success is defined by his ability to forge collaborative partnerships, drive systemic change, and assist underserved populations. His work at Latino Memphis serves as a cornerstone of his commitment to social justice, illustrating his capacity to leverage research, advocacy, and community engagement to create equitable opportunities and foster sustainable impact.

Driven by Impact

José Velázquez’s career is marked by a relentless dedication to creating tangible, lasting impact on the communities he has served. His tenure at the National Council of La Raza (NCLR), now known as UnidosUS, is a testament to his ability to drive large-scale initiatives that produce meaningful change for marginalized populations.
As Vice President at NCLR from 2007 to 2012, José managed the overall relationship with nearly 300 Affiliate organizations nationwide, which collectively served over 6 million Latinos annually. His strategic oversight extended to charter schools, credit unions, community development corporations, and community health clinics, ensuring that these organizations had the support and resources necessary to thrive.

During his time at NCLR, José managed six regional offices in D.C., New York, Chicago, San Antonio, Phoenix, and Los Angeles. His ability to lead and inspire this diverse group of professionals was critical in advancing the organization’s mission. Under his guidance, the department operated with an annual budget of $11 million, with the vast majority dedicated to Affiliate grants and capacity-building initiatives.
José’s impact at NCLR was not limited to administrative achievements. He played a pivotal role in fostering collaboration among the Affiliates, ensuring they had the support and resources necessary to thrive. His efforts resulted in improved services and programs that directly benefited millions of individuals and families, exemplifying his deep commitment to assisting communities through advocacy and capacity building. José’s leadership and vision have left an indelible mark on the organization and its Affiliates, setting a standard for impactful and equitable community development.

At Equip4Impact, we leverage José’s extensive experience and proven track record to help nonprofit organizations and social enterprises achieve their highest potential. Our focus on impact ensures that every strategy and initiative is designed to produce measurable, sustainable results that drive meaningful change for the communities we serve.