Application for Trena L Turner

Interview

Interview Length: 1:20:55 | Download Transcript

Initial Application

Below is the initial application for the Citizens Redistricting Commission. In this section of the application you will be asked to provide personal information that will assist the Applicant Review Panel in processing your application.

You do not have to complete the entire application at one time. At any point, you can save your application using the "Save Application" button. After the application has been saved, you can return to this site to complete the application using your email and password if you choose to set one. Be sure to submit your initial application on or before August 19, 2019.

All fields with * are required to submit the application.

Identification Information
Trena
L
Turner
Physical Address
Stockton
CA
95212
San Joaquin
United States
Mailing Address (If different than Physical Address)
Stockton
CA
95212
United States

Gender

Gender*

Racial or Ethnic Background

Select the circle that best describes your race/ethnicity*
Latino Group
Pacific Islander Group
Asian Group
Other Groups

The Voters FIRST Act is designed to produce a Citizens Redistricting Commission that is reasonably representative of the state's diversity. This information is required to help the Applicant Review Panel identify a diverse pool of the most qualified applicants. Although your specific date of birth will remain confidential, your age may be calculated from your date of birth and made public.

Economic Status

What was your total household income during the past 12 months?*

Eligibility Information

If you are uncertain about your prior voting registration, voting record, or party affiliation, we suggest that you contact the county clerk or voter registrar in the county in which you resided during the period of time in question. The contact information and address for California's county elections offices can be found at https://voterstatus.sos.ca.gov/.

1. Have you been continuously registered to vote in the State of California since July 1, 2015?*

2. With what party are you registered?*

3. Has your political party affiliation remained the same since July 1, 2015?

4. Indicate in which of the last three statewide general elections you voted, (check all that apply)*:

Conflicts of Interest

The Voters FIRST Act (Act) is designed to produce a Citizens Redistricting Commission that is independent from legislative influence and, therefore, disqualifies from service any person having a conflict of interest as defined by the Act. The information below is required to help the State Auditor and the Applicant Review Panel identify any conflicts of interest you may have.

5. Have you done any of the following within 10 years of the date you submit this application:

5a. Have you within 10 years of the date you submit this application been appointed to, elected to, or a candidate for a California congressional or state office (Appointed means appointed by the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization; or served at the pleasure of the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization)?*

5b. Have you within 10 years of the date you submit this application served as an officer, employee, or paid consultant of a California political party or of the campaign committee of a candidate for a California congressional or elective state office?*

5c. Have you within 10 years of the date you submit this application served as an elected or appointed member of a political party central committee in California?*

5d. Have you within 10 years of the date you submit this application been a lobbyist registered with the State of California or a California local government?*

5e. Have you within 10 years of the date you submit this application been a registered federal lobbyist?*

5f. Have you within 10 years of the date you submit this application served as a paid California congressional, legislative, or State Board of Equalization staff?*

5g. Have you within 10 years of the date you submit this application contributed $2,500 or more to any California congressional, state, or local candidate for elective public office within any single calendar year?(This amount has been adjusted using the California Consumer Price Index.)*

6. Are you currently serving as staff, or as a consultant to the Governor of California, a member of the California Legislature, a California member of Congress, or a member of the State Board of Equalization?*

7. Are you currently under contract with the Governor of California, a member of the California Legislature, a California member of Congress, or a member of the State Board of Equalization?*

When answering questions 8 and 9, immediate family means your parents, step-parents, spouse, registered domestic partner, children, step-children, siblings, step-siblings, parents-in-law, siblings-in-law, and sons- and daughters-in-law with whom you have done the following:

8. Do you have an immediate family relationship with the Governor of California, a member of the California Legislature, a California member of Congress, or a member of the State Board of Equalization?*

9. Has a member of your immediate family done any of the following within 10 years of the date you submit this application:

9a. Has a member of your immediate family within 10 years of the date you submit this application been appointed to, elected to, or a candidate for a California congressional or state office? (Appointed means appointed by the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization, or served at the pleasure of the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization)?*

9b. Has a member of your immediate family within 10 years of the date you submit this application served as an officer, employee, or paid consultant of a California political party or of the campaign committee of a candidate for a California congressional or elective state office?*

9c. Has a member of your immediate family within 10 years of the date you submit this application served as an elected or appointed member of a political party central committee in California?*

9d. Has a member of your immediate family within 10 years of the date you submit this application been a lobbyist registered with the State of California or a California local government?*

9e. Has a member of your immediate family within 10 years of the date you submit this application been a registered federal lobbyist?*

9f. Has a member of your immediate family within 10 years of the date you submit this application served as a paid California congressional, legislative, or State Board of Equalization staff?*

9g. Has a member of your immediate family within 10 years of the date you submit this application contributed $2,500 or more to any California congressional, state, or local candidate for elective public office within any single calendar year?(This amount has been adjusted using the California Consumer Price Index.)*

PRIVACY NOTIFICATION AND WAIVER

LEGAL AUTHORITY AND REASON FOR COLLECTION OF PERSONAL INFORMATION

The Voters FIRST Act (Act) and the regulations implementing the Act require that the selection of commissioners for the Citizens Redistricting Commission (Commission) be open to public scrutiny and the press (California Constitution, Article XXI, section 2, subdivision (c); Government Code sections 8252, 11120, 11121, and 11125.1; California Code of Regulations, title 2, sections 60835, 60836, 60842, and 60846). The Act also requires the California State Auditor's Office (State Auditor's Office) to select 60 of the most qualified applicants based upon their voter affiliation; eligibility to serve pursuant to Article XXI of the California Constitution; the absence of any conflicts of interest; relevant analytical skills; ability to be impartial; appreciation for California's diverse demographics and geography; and racial, ethnic, geographic, gender, and economic diversity. To determine each applicant's identity and qualifications to serve on the Commission and to track the demographic information of the applicant pool, this application seeks personal information about applicants that will be provided to the Applicant Review Panel, State Auditor's Office staff, and the public, including members of the press, the Legislature, and the Commission.

CONSEQUENCE OF NOT PROVIDING ALL REQUESTED INFORMATION

Failure to provide all of the requested information will result in your disqualification and the removal of your name from the applicant pool. Thus, if you wish to serve on the Commission, it is mandatory that you submit a response for each item of information requested.

PERMISSION TO USE AND RELEASE PERSONAL INFORMATION

By submitting this application, you acknowledge that the application, all documents submitted in support of your application, including a Statement of Economic Interests (FPPC Form 700) if you are asked to submit one, letters of recommendation, materials generated as a result of any State Auditor's Office or Applicant Review Panel investigation of you, and all public comments and responses to public comments about your application are public records. You agree that the State Auditor's Office shall provide copies of these materials to members of the public and the press, members and staff of the Applicant Review Panel, State Auditor's Office staff, the Legislature, the Commission, and as otherwise compelled by law. You understand that members of the Applicant Review Panel and the public may make public statements about you. You authorize the State Auditor's Office to use the information submitted by and about you as the State Auditor's Office deems necessary to select commissioners, replacement commissioners, or otherwise comply with its legal duties. You also authorize the State Auditor's Office to post all materials related to your application to serve on the Commission on its website and any website authorized by the State Auditor's Office.

VOLUNTARY WAIVER OF PRIVACY RIGHTS AND STATE AUDITOR'S OFFICE LIABILITY

By applying to be a commissioner, you are waiving your privacy and other rights under various state and federal laws including, but not limited to, the Information Practices Act (Cal. Civil Code section 1798 et seq.), and any defamation, invasion of privacy, and negligence claim you may have against the State Auditor's Office and those acting on its behalf. Accordingly, by waiving your privacy rights, you are agreeing to permit the State Auditor's Office to release any and all information submitted by or about you, EXCEPT that the State Auditor's Office will not post on the Internet your date of birth; physical, mailing, and email addresses (excluding the city and county); telephone numbers; the addresses and telephone numbers of your immediate family members; or any materials that the State Auditor's Office deems offensive. At this point in the process, the State Auditor's Office will not collect, and you should not voluntarily submit to the State Auditor's Office, your social security number, driver's license number, financial account numbers, or health information. By submitting your application, you acknowledge and consent to the release of the information you and others are providing related to you and, except as specifically provided above, you are waiving your right to privacy regarding all information relating to you and your application to serve as a commissioner. This waiver authorizes the State Auditor's Office to make public information submitted by or about you for a period of 12 years from the date of your application, even if you are not selected as a commissioner. You are providing this waiver voluntarily, understanding that the State Auditor's Office shall not be legally liable as a result of the release of information submitted by or about you or as the result of comments made about you by others, and that the State Auditor's Office will post on its website or otherwise release publicly. This includes claims of defamation, invasion of privacy, negligence, and any other statutory or common law claims.

WHOM TO CONTACT

You have a right to review personal information the State Auditor's Office maintains about you and to verify its accuracy. Please contact the State Auditor's Office's Information Privacy Officer at (916) 445-0255; 621 Capitol Mall, Suite 1200, Sacramento, California, 95814; if you would like to view or obtain information about the location of your records and the categories of persons who use the information in your records.

Affirmation

I affirm, by entering my initials in the box, that the statements contained in this application are true and correct to the best of my knowledge, and that I have read and understand the Privacy Notification and Waiver.

TT

07/16/2019 11:22:13AM

Supplemental Application

Congratulations on moving forward to the supplemental application for the Citizens Redistricting Commission (Commission). You must provide an answer to all questions that apply to you. If you miss a question, you will be prompted to answer missing responses before you can submit the application.

You do not have to complete the entire application at one time. At any point, you can save your application using the "Save Application" button. After the application has been saved, you can use your email address and password to return to this site to complete the application. Be sure to submit your supplemental application on or before October 20, 2019.

All fields with * are required to submit the application.

Part 1: Essay Questions:

The response to each of the following essay questions is limited to no more than 3200 characters including spaces (approximately 500 words). The response fields below will allow you to cut and paste text from any word processing program such as Microsoft Word.

Initially, I wasn't certain I wanted to serve. It seemed as if there should be others 'out there' that would take on this weighty assignment. Surely, someone with more knowledge and experience than me should step up to this challenge. However, as I read and re-read the application, definitions, and selection process, it occurred to me that though there would certainly be others 'out there' that would do an amazing job, so would I. This assignment calls for a committee member with analytical skills, that is impartial, and embraces diversity. I am passionate about all of these areas therefore, I feel compelled to at least attempt appointment!

I desire to serve on the 2020 Citizens Redistricting Committee because I believe I will serve in excellence, with my whole heart and ability. The process seems complex and will require individuals that will listen for what's presented and for what may be missing. I enjoy the challenge of taking massive amounts information and organizing it in a manner that allows sequencing and logic to begin to take shape. I have worked with teams and organizations for the better part of my life. One of my strengths is the ability to work through difficult decisions, (those with potential to divide and alienate) and have outcomes that all parties understand and embrace. Also, embracing diversity comes easy for me. Not just diversity of culture, but also diversity of status, thought, and stated opinions. I truly believe that people with varied backgrounds and experiences adds flavor and dimension to an otherwise dull and flat society.

Fully embracing diversity is important because, I know who I am and where I come from; what my needs are. As I listen and am in relationship with others, I begin to learn and understand who they are, where they are coming from and what their needs are. We embrace diversity when we have a desire and capacity, with demonstrated actions, to learn from others, gaining a clearer picture of what our collective needs may be, in a way that brings value to all.

This understanding and value for all people provides the foundation, that I would like to build upon, as we begin the work of drawing lines and re-establishing boundaries. I am excited for opportunity to serve with other other individuals with varied experiences and backgrounds. I am hopeful that by some chance or miracle that I am selected to do my best to ensure equity for all Californians.

In 2016, I was instrumental in merging five separate 501c3s into one legal entity - Faith in the Valley. Our founding convention, held in Fresno, California, brought 2000 people together, from various backgrounds and varied economic status, to the Fresno Convention Center to ratify the merger. Faith in the Valley's mission is to provide support, training, and assistance to community members, teaching them how to use their voice to enact change where inequities exist.

I chose to work with and support people in a multi-faith setting. The community of people that I work with range from those that would be considered marginalized to those with privilege or affluence; with different life experiences that inform their views. Everyone's voice is valued and powerful and deserves to be served with respect. We (I) truly believe in working towards a just society where every one belongs and is treated fairly. When working with community, I believe if I'm not fair in my dealings and consistent in how I serve, then I become no different from those that have set up systems that we work to change.

Impartiality is the ability to treat all people equitably with fairness, regardless to their character, actions, or beliefs. When planning our convention, the community leaders, Pastors, Priests, Imams, Rabbis, and Spiritual Leaders were expectantly diverse and opinionated in the role they would play and also vocal on what platform issues they could not or would not support; based on their religious beliefs or community standing. I ensured that each participating group leader had an opportunity to be represented. Then, and even now, I work very hard to ensure we find areas of agreement to focus on and not allow difference to destroy relationship. Even when an opinion is expressed and embraced that differ from my thought process or desired path forward, I provide the same level of support and access to resources.

This is one example of my willingness to serve and support those with different views from my own. I desired, from the beginning of our merger, to be impartial; my desire was (and is) to honor each person's beliefs and ensure all of the voices were represented. Our role at Faith in the Valley is to educate our community about the issues at hand; teach community (all community) how to get civically involved; do their own research and draw their best conclusions and path forward.

I also recognize that impartiality is not a one time event, it is a chosen lifestyle. I do not believe it is automatic nor do I believe it is consistently applied. I believe decisions, choices, verdicts all have to be checked and challenged because a simple desire to be impartial is rarely evidence that one is impartial. Impartiality is one of those things better spoken about by a third party. It is something best said about you rather than something you say about yourself. All in all, I do my best to be impartial, I listen to feedback from others, and as I learn better, I make adjustments when and where needed.

Faith in the Valley is a multi-faith, multi-cultural organization that fully supports and embraces of people from all ethnic and socio-economic backgrounds. My staff, intentionally, consists of individuals that are of Latino/Hispanic, Jewish, African American, Hmong, and Caucasian. My Board of Directors have the same representation with also a Muslim American. I work in coalition spaces fighting for justice with indigenous people, immigrants, returning citizens (previously incarcerated), and homeless individuals. Because we are a non-partisan organization, I serve on panels and work groups with people that would identify as Democrat, Republican and Independent, with policy makers and elected officials.

To ensure we are inclusive and ensure we represent as many diverse populations as possible, in our meetings and planning we ask, "Who is not at the decision-making table?" If we cannot invite the 'missing' into the space because of timing, space or proximity, we lift them in are hearts, minds, and in our learned experiences, to ensure we are providing the best possible path forward for all concerned.

Because I appreciate diversity and strongly believe in the value of all people I was honored and selected to participate in an 18 month non-profit accelerator cohort program, sponsored by the Latino Community Foundation. This program was curated by and for Latino people, to build the skills of leaders working with the Latino community. I was contacted several times and initially thought they were reaching out in error. They indicated they had selected me to be a part of this amazing program because of the work I do with the Latino community. I explained that though the program sounded amazing, I had to tell them I was African American. The program coordinator responded that they knew exactly who I was; based on my work with the Latino community they still wanted to offer me the opportunity to benefit from the program!

Through the Astraea Lesbian Foundation for Justice and the Borealis Foundation, I was selected to attend a Grantee Gathering, "Freedom from Violence and Criminalization" in San Juan, Puerto Rico. I was one of more than 60 organizers based in the U.S. that lead work in the community to fight back against the increased criminalization of communities of color, Lesbian, Gay, Bi, Trans, Gender Non-Conforming & Queer (LGBTGNCQ), poor and working class folks, women, migrant communities and all of those that live at the intersections of these identities and experiences. This was a generative space where we were able to engage in political dialog and re-envision public safety in communities of color.

I truly appreciate California's diversity and the many, many people that make up our beautiful Golden State. I am so encouraged by this process that aims to include all voices in the conversation.

I have a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in Management. I graduated Summa Cum Laude, one of the top in my class. I am comfortable with math, analysis, statistical reports, and problems solving. I am comfortable with a computer and most software programs. I served on both the Civil Service Commission for the City of Stockton as well as the Salary Setting Commission. In each of these roles I was part of a group decision-making process and was required to assess the value of information to determine its weight in decision-making. I worked, in management for 20 of the 25 years that I worked for a telecommunications company. There, I interacted with two different unions - CWA and TIU and frequently had to receive expert and legal advice and apply the advice to decisions for the company.

I am a staff pastor for the Victory in Praise Church, where I serve as Executive Pastor. A good portion of my duties consists of report generating, letter writing, team facilitation and conflict resolution within membership and sometimes staff. We also operate a Community Development Center where there is multiple programs that run concurrently. When conflicts arise in programming, finances/budgeting, and or procedure, I serve as adjudicator or moderator to ensure the facts are louder than opinions so that we can move forward with the solution that is best alignment with the stated mission.

Working at Faith in the Valley, we train community members how to research issues, determining the root cause of why issues exist; the history or origin, who benefits, who put the policy in place, what structure upholds or is at odds with the law or policy and what steps are needed to change. This requires the ability to read and understand policy, some law, and parse through, sometimes massive amounts of information.

Part 2: General Information

Secondary Education
Did you graduate from high school?*
If not, do you possess a GED or equivalent?

University or College, Business, Correspondence, Trade, or Service School(s) Attended

Post-Secondary Education
American InterContinental University
Management (Summa Cum Laude)
Bachelor of Business Administration - Management
2
February 2006

Employment History

Employment History
01/09/2017
Current
Faith In The Valley
Executive Director
2 years, 7 months

Set vision, lead and oversee a region-wide organization. Create strategy to implement effective campaigns. Build coalitions with public officials, policy leaders, & other strategic allies. Develop long-term relationships with a diverse community members. Raise funds and oversee regional budget of 2.6 million.

Employment History
02/03/1978
08/30/2003
ATT Communications
Associate Director
25 years 6 months

Accountable for successful execution of statewide training on new product/process rollout to the consumer departments. Managed/supervised; trained, coached & developed multi-functional teams in various CA locations. Partnered with sales, operations, and customer care departments to identify communication needs.

Employment History
01/01/2007
Current
Victory In Praise Church
Executive Pastor
12 years 9 months

Oversees church membership, ministry, magnification, mission, and maturity departments. Ensures each department is adequately staffed and runs efficiently and effectively. Accountable for capability building and the successful execution of leadership teams within the church and in new church plants.

Activities

I have served in leadership within our church structure since my early teens (approximately 45 years). Within the church structure, I served as transportation coordinator, secretary, board representative, treasurer for a National organization, fund raiser coordinator, Sunday School teacher, youth pastor, young adult pastor, trainer, coach, facilitator, and now also, as executive pastor.

My husband and I host monthly marriage workshops that are open to all married couples. We believe healthy families are a necessary element of a strong and vibrant community. Having been married for 41 years, we facilitate discussions and activities designed to enrich and fortify couples for life. Because finances, or lack thereof causes added stress in relationships, we also offer financial counseling to adults of all ages; individuals and groups.

Within the community, I have worked with Californians for Safety and Justice in a community fair to pass Proposition 47. Facilitated leadership trainings for the Boys and Girls Club, First Five, other local congregations. Served for the Lincoln High School African American Parent Advisory Committee. Recruited 25 community members to participate in the annual Stockton Reads program. Served a term as Stockton Civil Service Commissioner and then as a member of the Salary Setting Commission, for the City of Stockton. I've received community honors from the NAACP and the Amelia Ann Adams Whole Life Center Bridge Award. I was selected as one of twelve delegates, representing social justice organizations, at the Fearless Cities Conference, held at Barcelona University, in Barcelona, Spain; hosted by Mayor Ada Comu. I was selected as a delegate to attend the World Meeting of Poplar Movements hosted by Pope Francis, first at the Vatican, in Rome, and then later for a local version held in Modesto, CA, where my organization, Faith in the Valley was the host organization.

Within my role as Executive Director for Faith in the Valley, I have worked with the city of Stockton officials in the early implementation stages of both the Basic Income program ($500 stipend to 125 community members for 18 months) and Advance Peace (a gun violence reduction program). I donate $50 per month, as all staff and Board members are encouraged to donate to our non-profit organization any amount that they feel comfortable with.

My husband and I donate the largest part of our community giving through tithes, offering and our building fund programs to the Victory In Praise Church, where we are the founding pastors. Victory In Praise (VIP) is a non-profit 501c3 organization that has been in existence since 1995. Victory In Praise has many programs for members and our community. In addition to the church we have an amazing VIP Community Development Center VIP CDC) that serves the community of all ages: senior enrichment programming, Lego Math Program, STEM, Girls Who Code, Summer reading programs, financial literacy, home-buyers workshops, music classes (piano, saxophone, voice lessons), dance classes (folkloric, mime, hip hop, praise), summer kids camp and many others.

Former Names, Nicknames or Aliases

Have you used or been known by any other names, nicknames, or aliases since you became an adult?*

Trena L Turner

Criminal History

Have you ever been convicted of a felony by any court?*

Voting Information

When you voted in any of the last three statewide general elections (i.e. the elections in November 2014, November 2016, and November 2018), did you vote using a different name or address than those you used on the initial application?*

Former Residences

List all of the places you have lived for 30 days or more at one time during the last 10 years (do not include information for where you lived prior to your 18th birthday). This does not include your current residence. If you lived in temporary housing while permanently residing somewhere else, note that with an * in the street address line:

Former Residence
Stockton, CA 95209
San Joaquin
12/2012
09/2017
Former Residence
Stockton, CA 95206
San Joaquin
01/1995
12/2012

Financial Contributions

List all of the monetary and non-monetary contributions valued at a total of $250 or more that you have made in any single calendar year during the past two years to any professional, social, political, volunteer, and/or community organization or cause. Begin with your most recent contribution:

Financial Contribution
Calendar year - 2018 (includes tithes, offerings, and donations for both my husband and I. We give combined).
Victory In Praise Church
2029 E. Harding Way, Stockton, CA 95205
$35,389.65
Financial Contribution
Calendar year - 2018
Faith in the Valley
2027 E. Harding Way, Stockton, CA 95205
$400

Part 3: Family Information

You must provide information about each living family member described in this paragraph. Information about each of your family members is necessary to determine whether you have a conflict of interest that would prohibit you from serving on the Citizens Redistricting Commission. In this part of the application, you must provide information about your living parents, spouse, registered domestic partner (RDP), children, siblings, parents-in-law, siblings-in-law, sons-and daughters-in-law. Step-parents, step-children, and step-siblings count as parents, children, and siblings.

Do you have any immediate family members as described?*
Family Member
Spouse/Registed Domestic Partner (RDP)
Rufus K Turner
For this family member, you must state whether within the past 10 years this person has engaged in any of the activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest under the Voters FIRST Act. The following is a list of those activities:
  • Been appointed to, elected to, or a candidate for a California congressional or state office. ("Appointed" means appointed by the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization, or served at the pleasure of the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization.)
  • Served as an officer, employee, or paid consultant of a California political party or the campaign committee of a candidate for a California congressional or elective state office.
  • Served as an elected or appointed member of a political party central committee operating in California.
  • Been a lobbyist registered with the State of California or a California local government.
  • Been a registered federal lobbyist.
  • Served as paid California congressional, legislative, or State Board of Equalization staff.
  • Contributed $2,500 or more during a calendar year to any California congressional, state, or local candidate for elective public office.
Within the past 10 years, has the family member engaged in any of these activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest?*

For each family member you must indicate whether you have a special (bona fide) relationship with that person. You have a special (bona fide) relationship with a family member if during the past 12 months you have (Guidance for determining Conflicts of Interest):

  1. Cohabitated with that person for a period or periods totaling 30 days or more.
  2. Shared with that person ownership of any real or personal property having a total value of $1,000 or more.
  3. Provided to or received from that person a financial benefit totaling $1,000 or more.
Do you have a special relationship with this person based on any of the three factors described?*
Family Member
Parent
Mary Ann George
For this family member, you must state whether within the past 10 years this person has engaged in any of the activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest under the Voters FIRST Act. The following is a list of those activities:
  • Been appointed to, elected to, or a candidate for a California congressional or state office. ("Appointed" means appointed by the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization, or served at the pleasure of the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization.)
  • Served as an officer, employee, or paid consultant of a California political party or the campaign committee of a candidate for a California congressional or elective state office.
  • Served as an elected or appointed member of a political party central committee operating in California.
  • Been a lobbyist registered with the State of California or a California local government.
  • Been a registered federal lobbyist.
  • Served as paid California congressional, legislative, or State Board of Equalization staff.
  • Contributed $2,500 or more during a calendar year to any California congressional, state, or local candidate for elective public office.
Within the past 10 years, has the family member engaged in any of these activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest?*

For each family member you must indicate whether you have a special (bona fide) relationship with that person. You have a special (bona fide) relationship with a family member if during the past 12 months you have (Guidance for determining Conflicts of Interest):

  1. Cohabitated with that person for a period or periods totaling 30 days or more.
  2. Shared with that person ownership of any real or personal property having a total value of $1,000 or more.
  3. Provided to or received from that person a financial benefit totaling $1,000 or more.
Do you have a special relationship with this person based on any of the three factors described?*
Family Member
Sibling
Cheryl L George
For this family member, you must state whether within the past 10 years this person has engaged in any of the activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest under the Voters FIRST Act. The following is a list of those activities:
  • Been appointed to, elected to, or a candidate for a California congressional or state office. ("Appointed" means appointed by the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization, or served at the pleasure of the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization.)
  • Served as an officer, employee, or paid consultant of a California political party or the campaign committee of a candidate for a California congressional or elective state office.
  • Served as an elected or appointed member of a political party central committee operating in California.
  • Been a lobbyist registered with the State of California or a California local government.
  • Been a registered federal lobbyist.
  • Served as paid California congressional, legislative, or State Board of Equalization staff.
  • Contributed $2,500 or more during a calendar year to any California congressional, state, or local candidate for elective public office.
Within the past 10 years, has the family member engaged in any of these activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest?*

For each family member you must indicate whether you have a special (bona fide) relationship with that person. You have a special (bona fide) relationship with a family member if during the past 12 months you have (Guidance for determining Conflicts of Interest):

  1. Cohabitated with that person for a period or periods totaling 30 days or more.
  2. Shared with that person ownership of any real or personal property having a total value of $1,000 or more.
  3. Provided to or received from that person a financial benefit totaling $1,000 or more.
Do you have a special relationship with this person based on any of the three factors described?*
Family Member
Sibling
Errol E George
For this family member, you must state whether within the past 10 years this person has engaged in any of the activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest under the Voters FIRST Act. The following is a list of those activities:
  • Been appointed to, elected to, or a candidate for a California congressional or state office. ("Appointed" means appointed by the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization, or served at the pleasure of the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization.)
  • Served as an officer, employee, or paid consultant of a California political party or the campaign committee of a candidate for a California congressional or elective state office.
  • Served as an elected or appointed member of a political party central committee operating in California.
  • Been a lobbyist registered with the State of California or a California local government.
  • Been a registered federal lobbyist.
  • Served as paid California congressional, legislative, or State Board of Equalization staff.
  • Contributed $2,500 or more during a calendar year to any California congressional, state, or local candidate for elective public office.
Within the past 10 years, has the family member engaged in any of these activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest?*

For each family member you must indicate whether you have a special (bona fide) relationship with that person. You have a special (bona fide) relationship with a family member if during the past 12 months you have (Guidance for determining Conflicts of Interest):

  1. Cohabitated with that person for a period or periods totaling 30 days or more.
  2. Shared with that person ownership of any real or personal property having a total value of $1,000 or more.
  3. Provided to or received from that person a financial benefit totaling $1,000 or more.
Do you have a special relationship with this person based on any of the three factors described?*
Family Member
Child
Jbarrie Turner
For this family member, you must state whether within the past 10 years this person has engaged in any of the activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest under the Voters FIRST Act. The following is a list of those activities:
  • Been appointed to, elected to, or a candidate for a California congressional or state office. ("Appointed" means appointed by the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization, or served at the pleasure of the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization.)
  • Served as an officer, employee, or paid consultant of a California political party or the campaign committee of a candidate for a California congressional or elective state office.
  • Served as an elected or appointed member of a political party central committee operating in California.
  • Been a lobbyist registered with the State of California or a California local government.
  • Been a registered federal lobbyist.
  • Served as paid California congressional, legislative, or State Board of Equalization staff.
  • Contributed $2,500 or more during a calendar year to any California congressional, state, or local candidate for elective public office.
Within the past 10 years, has the family member engaged in any of these activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest?*

For each family member you must indicate whether you have a special (bona fide) relationship with that person. You have a special (bona fide) relationship with a family member if during the past 12 months you have (Guidance for determining Conflicts of Interest):

  1. Cohabitated with that person for a period or periods totaling 30 days or more.
  2. Shared with that person ownership of any real or personal property having a total value of $1,000 or more.
  3. Provided to or received from that person a financial benefit totaling $1,000 or more.
Do you have a special relationship with this person based on any of the three factors described?*
Family Member
Child
Tia L Barnes
For this family member, you must state whether within the past 10 years this person has engaged in any of the activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest under the Voters FIRST Act. The following is a list of those activities:
  • Been appointed to, elected to, or a candidate for a California congressional or state office. ("Appointed" means appointed by the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization, or served at the pleasure of the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization.)
  • Served as an officer, employee, or paid consultant of a California political party or the campaign committee of a candidate for a California congressional or elective state office.
  • Served as an elected or appointed member of a political party central committee operating in California.
  • Been a lobbyist registered with the State of California or a California local government.
  • Been a registered federal lobbyist.
  • Served as paid California congressional, legislative, or State Board of Equalization staff.
  • Contributed $2,500 or more during a calendar year to any California congressional, state, or local candidate for elective public office.
Within the past 10 years, has the family member engaged in any of these activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest?*

For each family member you must indicate whether you have a special (bona fide) relationship with that person. You have a special (bona fide) relationship with a family member if during the past 12 months you have (Guidance for determining Conflicts of Interest):

  1. Cohabitated with that person for a period or periods totaling 30 days or more.
  2. Shared with that person ownership of any real or personal property having a total value of $1,000 or more.
  3. Provided to or received from that person a financial benefit totaling $1,000 or more.
Do you have a special relationship with this person based on any of the three factors described?*
Family Member
Spouse/RDP of Child
Joseph Barnes IV
For this family member, you must state whether within the past 10 years this person has engaged in any of the activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest under the Voters FIRST Act. The following is a list of those activities:
  • Been appointed to, elected to, or a candidate for a California congressional or state office. ("Appointed" means appointed by the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization, or served at the pleasure of the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization.)
  • Served as an officer, employee, or paid consultant of a California political party or the campaign committee of a candidate for a California congressional or elective state office.
  • Served as an elected or appointed member of a political party central committee operating in California.
  • Been a lobbyist registered with the State of California or a California local government.
  • Been a registered federal lobbyist.
  • Served as paid California congressional, legislative, or State Board of Equalization staff.
  • Contributed $2,500 or more during a calendar year to any California congressional, state, or local candidate for elective public office.
Within the past 10 years, has the family member engaged in any of these activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest?*

For each family member you must indicate whether you have a special (bona fide) relationship with that person. You have a special (bona fide) relationship with a family member if during the past 12 months you have (Guidance for determining Conflicts of Interest):

  1. Cohabitated with that person for a period or periods totaling 30 days or more.
  2. Shared with that person ownership of any real or personal property having a total value of $1,000 or more.
  3. Provided to or received from that person a financial benefit totaling $1,000 or more.
Do you have a special relationship with this person based on any of the three factors described?*
Family Member
Brother or Sister in-law: Sibling of Spouse/RDP
Claude A Johnson
For this family member, you must state whether within the past 10 years this person has engaged in any of the activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest under the Voters FIRST Act. The following is a list of those activities:
  • Been appointed to, elected to, or a candidate for a California congressional or state office. ("Appointed" means appointed by the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization, or served at the pleasure of the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization.)
  • Served as an officer, employee, or paid consultant of a California political party or the campaign committee of a candidate for a California congressional or elective state office.
  • Served as an elected or appointed member of a political party central committee operating in California.
  • Been a lobbyist registered with the State of California or a California local government.
  • Been a registered federal lobbyist.
  • Served as paid California congressional, legislative, or State Board of Equalization staff.
  • Contributed $2,500 or more during a calendar year to any California congressional, state, or local candidate for elective public office.
Within the past 10 years, has the family member engaged in any of these activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest?*

For each family member you must indicate whether you have a special (bona fide) relationship with that person. You have a special (bona fide) relationship with a family member if during the past 12 months you have (Guidance for determining Conflicts of Interest):

  1. Cohabitated with that person for a period or periods totaling 30 days or more.
  2. Shared with that person ownership of any real or personal property having a total value of $1,000 or more.
  3. Provided to or received from that person a financial benefit totaling $1,000 or more.
Do you have a special relationship with this person based on any of the three factors described?*
Family Member
Brother or Sister in-law: Sibling of Spouse/RDP
Bessie M. Thompson
For this family member, you must state whether within the past 10 years this person has engaged in any of the activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest under the Voters FIRST Act. The following is a list of those activities:
  • Been appointed to, elected to, or a candidate for a California congressional or state office. ("Appointed" means appointed by the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization, or served at the pleasure of the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization.)
  • Served as an officer, employee, or paid consultant of a California political party or the campaign committee of a candidate for a California congressional or elective state office.
  • Served as an elected or appointed member of a political party central committee operating in California.
  • Been a lobbyist registered with the State of California or a California local government.
  • Been a registered federal lobbyist.
  • Served as paid California congressional, legislative, or State Board of Equalization staff.
  • Contributed $2,500 or more during a calendar year to any California congressional, state, or local candidate for elective public office.
Within the past 10 years, has the family member engaged in any of these activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest?*

For each family member you must indicate whether you have a special (bona fide) relationship with that person. You have a special (bona fide) relationship with a family member if during the past 12 months you have (Guidance for determining Conflicts of Interest):

  1. Cohabitated with that person for a period or periods totaling 30 days or more.
  2. Shared with that person ownership of any real or personal property having a total value of $1,000 or more.
  3. Provided to or received from that person a financial benefit totaling $1,000 or more.
Do you have a special relationship with this person based on any of the three factors described?*
Family Member
Brother or Sister in-law: Sibling of Spouse/RDP
Michele Carney
For this family member, you must state whether within the past 10 years this person has engaged in any of the activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest under the Voters FIRST Act. The following is a list of those activities:
  • Been appointed to, elected to, or a candidate for a California congressional or state office. ("Appointed" means appointed by the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization, or served at the pleasure of the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization.)
  • Served as an officer, employee, or paid consultant of a California political party or the campaign committee of a candidate for a California congressional or elective state office.
  • Served as an elected or appointed member of a political party central committee operating in California.
  • Been a lobbyist registered with the State of California or a California local government.
  • Been a registered federal lobbyist.
  • Served as paid California congressional, legislative, or State Board of Equalization staff.
  • Contributed $2,500 or more during a calendar year to any California congressional, state, or local candidate for elective public office.
Within the past 10 years, has the family member engaged in any of these activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest?*

For each family member you must indicate whether you have a special (bona fide) relationship with that person. You have a special (bona fide) relationship with a family member if during the past 12 months you have (Guidance for determining Conflicts of Interest):

  1. Cohabitated with that person for a period or periods totaling 30 days or more.
  2. Shared with that person ownership of any real or personal property having a total value of $1,000 or more.
  3. Provided to or received from that person a financial benefit totaling $1,000 or more.
Do you have a special relationship with this person based on any of the three factors described?*
Family Member
Brother or Sister in-law: Sibling of Spouse/RDP
Sharon K Jackson
For this family member, you must state whether within the past 10 years this person has engaged in any of the activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest under the Voters FIRST Act. The following is a list of those activities:
  • Been appointed to, elected to, or a candidate for a California congressional or state office. ("Appointed" means appointed by the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization, or served at the pleasure of the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization.)
  • Served as an officer, employee, or paid consultant of a California political party or the campaign committee of a candidate for a California congressional or elective state office.
  • Served as an elected or appointed member of a political party central committee operating in California.
  • Been a lobbyist registered with the State of California or a California local government.
  • Been a registered federal lobbyist.
  • Served as paid California congressional, legislative, or State Board of Equalization staff.
  • Contributed $2,500 or more during a calendar year to any California congressional, state, or local candidate for elective public office.
Within the past 10 years, has the family member engaged in any of these activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest?*

For each family member you must indicate whether you have a special (bona fide) relationship with that person. You have a special (bona fide) relationship with a family member if during the past 12 months you have (Guidance for determining Conflicts of Interest):

  1. Cohabitated with that person for a period or periods totaling 30 days or more.
  2. Shared with that person ownership of any real or personal property having a total value of $1,000 or more.
  3. Provided to or received from that person a financial benefit totaling $1,000 or more.
Do you have a special relationship with this person based on any of the three factors described?*
Family Member
Brother or Sister in-law: Sibling of Spouse/RDP
Barbara N Ware
For this family member, you must state whether within the past 10 years this person has engaged in any of the activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest under the Voters FIRST Act. The following is a list of those activities:
  • Been appointed to, elected to, or a candidate for a California congressional or state office. ("Appointed" means appointed by the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization, or served at the pleasure of the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization.)
  • Served as an officer, employee, or paid consultant of a California political party or the campaign committee of a candidate for a California congressional or elective state office.
  • Served as an elected or appointed member of a political party central committee operating in California.
  • Been a lobbyist registered with the State of California or a California local government.
  • Been a registered federal lobbyist.
  • Served as paid California congressional, legislative, or State Board of Equalization staff.
  • Contributed $2,500 or more during a calendar year to any California congressional, state, or local candidate for elective public office.
Within the past 10 years, has the family member engaged in any of these activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest?*

For each family member you must indicate whether you have a special (bona fide) relationship with that person. You have a special (bona fide) relationship with a family member if during the past 12 months you have (Guidance for determining Conflicts of Interest):

  1. Cohabitated with that person for a period or periods totaling 30 days or more.
  2. Shared with that person ownership of any real or personal property having a total value of $1,000 or more.
  3. Provided to or received from that person a financial benefit totaling $1,000 or more.
Do you have a special relationship with this person based on any of the three factors described?*
Family Member
Sibling
Deryl V George, Sr
For this family member, you must state whether within the past 10 years this person has engaged in any of the activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest under the Voters FIRST Act. The following is a list of those activities:
  • Been appointed to, elected to, or a candidate for a California congressional or state office. ("Appointed" means appointed by the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization, or served at the pleasure of the Governor, a member of the Legislature, or a member of the State Board of Equalization.)
  • Served as an officer, employee, or paid consultant of a California political party or the campaign committee of a candidate for a California congressional or elective state office.
  • Served as an elected or appointed member of a political party central committee operating in California.
  • Been a lobbyist registered with the State of California or a California local government.
  • Been a registered federal lobbyist.
  • Served as paid California congressional, legislative, or State Board of Equalization staff.
  • Contributed $2,500 or more during a calendar year to any California congressional, state, or local candidate for elective public office.
Within the past 10 years, has the family member engaged in any of these activities that could cause you to have a conflict of interest?*

For each family member you must indicate whether you have a special (bona fide) relationship with that person. You have a special (bona fide) relationship with a family member if during the past 12 months you have (Guidance for determining Conflicts of Interest):

  1. Cohabitated with that person for a period or periods totaling 30 days or more.
  2. Shared with that person ownership of any real or personal property having a total value of $1,000 or more.
  3. Provided to or received from that person a financial benefit totaling $1,000 or more.
Do you have a special relationship with this person based on any of the three factors described?*

Other Relevant Material

I am confident that I will serve well; to the best of my ability, and really hope I get the opportunity to serve on this commission. Thank you for the process.

Part 4: Letters of Recommendation

An applicant must submit, or arrange for the submission of, three letters of recommendation from individuals or organizations. A letter of recommendation may be no longer than three pages. Guidance for letters of recommendation. (Note: Any additional recommendations may be submitted as a public comment and public comments are considered by the Applicant Review Panel. However, a public comment submitted about you will not count as a letter of recommendation.)

An applicant's letters of recommendation must be submitted to the California State Auditor's Office (State Auditor's Office) on or before October 20, 2019. All three letters of recommendation must include your applicant identification number, which is 7656. This identification number is unique to your application and ensures that all of your letters of recommendation are correctly attached to your application file before they are reviewed by the Applicant Review Panel.

Online Submission of Letters of Recommendation

We have provided three links for you to provide to the individuals who will be submitting letters of recommendation on your behalf. Each link may be used for only one letter and will expire upon that letter's submission. Remember to communicate to the individuals writing your letters of recommendation that their letters must include your applicant identification number, as provided above.

Submission of Letters of Recommendation via E-mail, Facsimile, Mail, or Common Carrier

Online submission of letters of recommendation is preferred. You may also submit letters of recommendation via email to shapecaliforniasfuture@auditor.ca.gov, by facsimile to (888) 694-5288, or by U.S. Mail or other common carrier mailed to the address provided below. All letters of recommendation submitted via email, facsimile, U.S. Mail, or other common carrier must include both your application identification number (7656) and the letter of recommendation number (1, 2, or 3). Letters of recommendation sent to the State Auditor's Office that are not received or postmarked by October 20, 2019, will not be considered, and the applicant will not continue on in the application process.

The letters of recommendation must be addressed to the Applicant Review Panel and can be mailed to:

Applicant Review Panel
c/o California State Auditor's Office
621 Capitol Mall, Suite 1200
Sacramento, California, 95814

Part 5: Financial Disclosure Form

If likely to be selected for an interview, you will be required to submit FPPC Form 700, Statement of Economic Interests. The Fair Political Practices Commission's website has more information about the FPPC Form 700. You do not need to submit that form now. You will receive an email at a later date if you will be required to submit this form.

Part 6: PRIVACY NOTIFICATION AND WAIVER

LEGAL AUTHORITY AND REASON FOR COLLECTION OF PERSONAL INFORMATION

The Voters FIRST Act (Act) and the regulations implementing the Act require that the selection of commissioners for the Citizens Redistricting Commission (Commission) be open to public scrutiny and the press (California Constitution, Article XXI, section 2, subdivision (c); Government Code sections 8252, 11120, 11121, and 11125.1; California Code of Regulations, title 2, sections 60835, 60836, 60842, and 60846). The Act also requires the California State Auditor's Office (State Auditor's Office) to select 60 of the most qualified applicants based upon their voter affiliation; eligibility to serve pursuant to Article XXI of the California Constitution; the absence of any conflicts of interest; relevant analytical skills; ability to be impartial; appreciation for California's diverse demographics and geography; and racial, ethnic, geographic, gender, and economic diversity. To determine each applicant's identity and qualifications to serve on the Commission and to track the demographic information of the applicant pool, this application seeks personal information about applicants that will be provided to the Applicant Review Panel, State Auditor's Office staff, and the public, including members of the press, the Legislature, and the Commission.

CONSEQUENCE OF NOT PROVIDING ALL REQUESTED INFORMATION

Failure to provide all of the requested information will result in your disqualification and the removal of your name from the applicant pool. Thus, if you wish to serve on the Commission, it is mandatory that you submit a response for each item of information requested.

PERMISSION TO USE AND RELEASE PERSONAL INFORMATION

By submitting this application, you acknowledge that the application, all documents submitted in support of your application, including a Statement of Economic Interests (FPPC Form 700) if you are asked to submit one, letters of recommendation, materials generated as a result of any State Auditor's Office or Applicant Review Panel investigation of you, and all public comments and responses to public comments about your application are public records. You agree that the State Auditor's Office shall provide copies of these materials to members of the public and the press, members and staff of the Applicant Review Panel, State Auditor's Office staff, the Legislature, the Commission, and as otherwise compelled by law. You understand that members of the Applicant Review Panel and the public may make public statements about you. You authorize the State Auditor's Office to use the information submitted by and about you as the State Auditor's Office deems necessary to select commissioners, replacement commissioners, or otherwise comply with its legal duties. You also authorize the State Auditor's Office to post all materials related to your application to serve on the Commission on its website and any website authorized by the State Auditor's Office.

VOLUNTARY WAIVER OF PRIVACY RIGHTS AND STATE AUDITOR'S OFFICE LIABILITY

By applying to be a commissioner, you are waiving your privacy and other rights under various state and federal laws including, but not limited to, the Information Practices Act (Cal. Civil Code section 1798 et seq.), and any defamation, invasion of privacy, and negligence claim you may have against the State Auditor's Office and those acting on its behalf. Accordingly, by waiving your privacy rights, you are agreeing to permit the State Auditor's Office to release any and all information submitted by or about you, EXCEPT that the State Auditor's Office will not post on the Internet your date of birth; physical, mailing, and email addresses (excluding the city and county); telephone numbers; the addresses and telephone numbers of your immediate family members; or any materials that the State Auditor's Office deems offensive. At this point in the process, the State Auditor's Office will not collect, and you should not voluntarily submit to the State Auditor's Office, your social security number, driver's license number, financial account numbers, or health information. By submitting your application, you acknowledge and consent to the release of the information you and others are providing related to you and, except as specifically provided above, you are waiving your right to privacy regarding all information relating to you and your application to serve as a commissioner. This waiver authorizes the State Auditor's Office to make public information submitted by or about you for a period of 12 years from the date of your application, even if you are not selected as a commissioner. You are providing this waiver voluntarily, understanding that the State Auditor's Office shall not be legally liable as a result of the release of information submitted by or about you or as the result of comments made about you by others, and that the State Auditor's Office will post on its website or otherwise release publicly. This includes claims of defamation, invasion of privacy, negligence, and any other statutory or common law claims.

WHOM TO CONTACT

You have a right to review personal information the State Auditor's Office maintains about you and to verify its accuracy. Please contact the State Auditor's Office's Information Privacy Officer at (916) 445-0255; 621 Capitol Mall, Suite 1200, Sacramento, California, 95814; if you would like to view or obtain information about the location of your records and the categories of persons who use the information in your records.

Affirmation

I affirm, by entering my initials in the box, that the statements contained in this application are true and correct to the best of my knowledge, and that I have read and understand the Privacy Notification and Waiver.

TT
10/15/2019 7:09:18PM

Amendments

Amendment 868 (redacted content)

Letters of Recommendation

Letter of Recommendation #1, submitted by Stephanie Gut

How Submitter Knows Applicant: Professional Colleague

Letter of Recommendation:

To: The Selection Committee for the 2020 Citizens Redistricting Commission

From:Stephanie Gut

Re: Recommendation for Trena Turner

I met Pastor Trena Turner through my work with the Faith in Action (FIA) network, formerly known as the PICO National Network. I have been with FIA for 38 years as a community organizer, an executive director of 2 affiliates, the Director of Organizational Development and, presently, the Director of Leader Development.

Faith in Action is the largest faith-based, grassroots community network in the country. Over its 47 year history, FIA affiliates in 23 states have developed tens of thousands of volunteer community leaders who have reached out and invited their neighbors, members of their congregations, and those living on the margins to join together to participate in public life. As a result, lives have been changed as people have the experience of coming together to improve their community, their city, their state and their country. It is democracy in action at its best.

I met Pastor Trena Turner a weeklong FIA National Leadership Training in 2013. She was a participant representing her local FIA affiliate in Stockton, California. What I noticed within the first 2 days is that Trena is someone who bridges across difference. She was surrounded by 120 multi-racial leaders and clergy from across the country who represented over 25 faith traditions and diverse political perspectives. Trena brought both curiosity and a generosity of spirit to each and every moment. There was one point in the training that participants were involved in an exercise about race, class and gender. Everyone was asked to sit on the seat that they thought the larger society has designated for them. By virtue of her professional work with the phone company, Trena seated herself in the middle of the 'pyramid.' She then proceeded to engage with her colleagues who raised questions about her decision. What was remarkable to watch was Trena's ability to articulate her own thinking behind where she chose to sit but also hold the tension of others who questioned her decision. She opened up and leaned into questions of how we explore issues of identity, class, race in a shared space where everyone's voice was heard. She led spontaneously, with respect, curiosity and generosity for those with whom she agreed and disagreed. At the end of the training, people named how deeply impacted they were by that moment in the training - they felt that it was a safe place to share and also a space of discomfort and inquiry.

Trena moved from a role as a volunteer leader in the local FIA affiliate to becoming the first Executive Director of Faith in the Valley - a merger of 5 independent organizations which spans the breadth of the Central Valley. She brought her management skills from her 30 years at the phone company to her new role along with a deep faith commitment. Her roots are deep with people and institutions. She has sat in hundreds of congregations and homes listening to the stories of families most deeply impacted by the issues affecting the quality of life in the central valley - air quality, skyrocketing costs of housing, gun violence, quality of schools, unemployment, etc. Those stories are a part of her and shape her understanding of who California needs to become and how it needs to be shaped (and for whom) to live out a future where everyone can thrive.

The third quality that I'd lift up about Pastor Trena is her sense of integrity. She lives in a region of political extremes - one of the most polarized regions in the state. I have observed her navigating through those extremes - listening to views very different from her own - and being clear about her thoughts without demonizing others. Where I have seen her (on occasion) lose her patience is with people who aren't interested in being a part of a team or thinking about the 'whole', but want to take up a lot of space to voice their own, individual opinions.

Trena is a leader - she is someone that people look to for guidance. During her 3 years as an Executive Director in Faith in Action, she has been invited to play a number of leadership roles within the state and national network - from leading national gatherings to examining how the network becomes a more equitable place for women of color. There are directors with 30 years tenure who pick up the phone and call Trena when they need a thought partner. The retired Roman Catholic Bishop of the Diocese of Stockton spoke of Trena as being the person who helped him understand more deeply about racial tensions in the region.

There is no one I can imagine better suited for the 2020 Citizens Redistricting Commission than Pastor Trena Turner. Her thoughtful discourse, love of people and ideas, bridging skills, her sense of integrity, her deep understanding of the diverse cultures and political divides across the state, and her clarity about who she is and what she believes will be a gift to the Commission.

Please let me know should you have any further questions. And deep appreciation for all you are doing to ensure that California has a commission that represents the beauty and breadth of our state.

Sincerely,
Stephanie Gut

Letter of Recommendation #2, submitted by Constance Carter

How Submitter Knows Applicant: Victory in Praise Church

Letter of Recommendation:

To whom it may concern,

I am writing regarding Mrs. Trena Turner (ID #7656). I have known Ms. Turner approximately 18 years and from the moment I met her, she has been nothing short of amazing. And I'm not saying this because of this letter of recommendation. I say this to everyone every time I speak about her. Trena is one of the most loving, straight forward, down to earth, non-judgmental Christian human beings I know. I met her when I joined the congregation at Victory in Praise Church 18 years ago. And I must admit that throughout this time, I've not attended more than I have. But it never stopped her from being loving and compassionate towards me and my family. She's always willing to lend a listening ear or pray with you and offer unbiased advice. She's highly respected and highly regarded in the City of Stockton. Her philanthropy is unmatched, and I have never witness her operate out of anything but selflessness and love. One thing I am completely sure about is that anyone who has Trena on their team would be honored. She brings so much to the table, and I know that anyone who has come in contact with her agrees. Over the last several years, I've watched her grow her activism with Faith in the Valley. Her influence has raised awareness about many social justice issues. She is a true force. If I had 3 words to describe Trena, they would be loving, selfless, powerful.

Thank you for your time!

Constance Carter, CEO
Catalyst Real Estate Professionals
[Redacted]

Letter of Recommendation #3, submitted by Andy Levine

How Submitter Knows Applicant: Colleague

Letter of Recommendation:

2020 Citizens Redistricting Commission Selection Committee:

I am writing to recommend Pastor Trena Turner for the 2020 Citizens Redistricting Commission. Since 2017, Pastor Trena has been the Executive Director of Faith in the Valley, a multi-faith, multi-race coalition of faith leaders and congregations from across the Central Valley, united around defending our most vulnerable neighbors and communities. I have known Pastor Trena since 2016 and, for the past three years, proudly served as her Communications Director and Regional Director. Before that, I was Director of Faith in the Valley's Fresno chapter (previously known as Faith in Community), working with Fresno congregations on campaigns including predatory lending, substandard housing, and gun violence prevention. I was born and raised in Fresno and believe deeply in the new rising leadership in the Central Valley, a region for far too long home to some of the nation's highest rates of poverty, pollution, and incarceration.

In her capacity as Executive Director of Faith in the Valley, Pastor Trena has led the founding and building of Faith in the Valley, merged from five previously separate organizations from Kern to San Joaquin Counties, into one that is developing a unified, regional vision for the role that leaders and congregations of various faiths can play together in partnership with other community-based organizations for dignity, opportunity and security for everyone in the Central Valley. Through Pastor Trena's leadership, we have seen our regional and local teams grow significantly, from a team of roughly 10 to now over 20 full-time community organizers and administrative staff. In large part because of that increased capacity and coordination across the five counties in which we currently operate, our county chapters have seen and begun scaling important campaign victories for health and safety housing inspections (in Fresno and now being scaled to Modesto), gun violence prevention programs (in Stockton and now being pursued in Fresno and elsewhere), and the turnout of thousands of new and infrequent Central Valley voters.

I believe likely in part because of her extensive career experience in both the corporate sector and co-leading a congregation with hundreds of members and multiple campuses, one of Pastor Trena's greatest strengths is in coaching. She has a unique ability to lead teams, but also work individually with a diverse range of experience levels and personalities to help build confidence in and clarity for everyone on her team. She inspires people - both those of us who know her well and those she meets for the very first time - with her belief in us and what is possible, her calming and confident presence, and her ability to turn seemingly distinct perspectives into genuinely inclusive and coherent ideas. I have also seen firsthand Pastor Trena's commitment to "do the work" of learning from people and places where she has less experience, genuinely listening and taking the time to understand new issues, communities, faith traditions, and perspectives. Rarely will you see or hear her judge those with different viewpoints from her, and that model she sets has impacted me and across our team. While Pastor Trena has spent her entire life - growing up in the Bay Area and for the past several years in Stockton - experiencing, seeing firsthand, and working to address the needs and inequities in our state (whether that be as Pastor, Board member of Faith in the Valley's predecessor in Stockton - People and Congregations together for Stockton - or just in her personal life), I actually believe that her relatively more recent transition into non-profit leadership has also played a role in her humility and genuine openness to learn from others around her, rather than simply coming in to every room thinking that she has all the answers.

While Pastor Trena's executive and organizational leadership skills are clear, what draws people to her, I believe, is first and foremost a genuine heart and concern for her team members and our volunteer leaders and clergy as people and not just employees or volunteers. That means prioritizing (and modeling herself) personal and health needs, and modeling in our treatment of our team internally how we aspire to see everyone in all of our communities treated. Finally, Pastor Trena is incredibly even keeled and consistent. No matter what pressures we may be facing internally or externally, she is always present, patient, and thoughtful in hearing all perspectives before either making her own decision or seeing us through to a shared one.

It is for all of these reasons and more that I write to enthusiastically recommend Pastor Trena Turner for the 2020 Citizens Redistricting Commission. In addition to her individual insights, experience and ability to work with as well as lead teams, I believe her unique positioning as a female, African American clergy member and community-based Executive Director based in Stockton and the Central Valley, a city and region historically left out of many important decision making tables but also very much on the rise, would be invaluable to this process. Should you have any questions or ways I can be of further assistance, please do not hesitate to email me at: [Redacted]

In Community,
Andy Levine

Public Comments

Comment 882, submitted by Penni McConnell

How Submitter Knows Applicant: Leadership at Victory In Praise Church

Submitted On: 10/30/2019

Comment:

I have known Trena Turner for 17 years in my role as an ordained Elder in Victory In Praise Church (she and her husband are the founding pastors). Mrs. Turner serves as Executive Pastor and my role is a direct line report to her position. Mrs. Turner is masterful at listening to the many sides of a situation which allows her to give guidance that brings successful resolution. Her ability to receive and compress large amounts of data gives her the ability to analyze issues that will come before this commission in a timely fashion.
Her analytical skills are just one way in which Mrs. Turner will be an asset to this commission. Another way that I believe Mrs. Turner will be an asset to this commission is found in her unique background that mixes non-profit management as well as secular management. If I understand the requirements of this commission, the main purpose is to make sure that the entire population of the State of California is to be equally represented. Mrs. Turner's background affords her the ability to move seamlessly among diverse groups in any given situation. She is always prepared and never lacks wisdom.
Her recent work with Faith In The Valley has proven that, while she has strong religious views, she is able to show love, compassion and understanding regardless of who she encounters.
I have gleaned from her as a leader for many years and have implemented many of her techniques - which always brings me success. I wholeheartedly support her application for a seat as a commissioner.

Comment 950, submitted by Geneva Haynes

How Submitter Knows Applicant: Fellow Pastor and Non Profit Executive Director

Submitted On: 10/31/2019

Comment:

It affords me great pleasure to extend my support and voice to the nomination of Trena Turner to the Citizens Redistricting Commission. First, Pastor Trina Turner is a powerful presence in the religious community in San Joaquin County. Her genius is noteworthy as she bridges her faith and her professional skills to build census among multiple religious denominations. She is goal focused and yet flexible in consensus building. Secondly, as an Executive Director, Trina Turner and I shared opportunity to set on City and County planning forums with a focus on social and public safety concerns. She is passionate about disparities in social justice issues and inequities in delivery of public services .Clearly there is a daily intersect of both hats that Trena Turner wears. She wears these hates well.

Comment 965, submitted by Pastor Patrice MucCular

How Submitter Knows Applicant: We met at church.

Submitted On: 10/31/2019

Comment redacted.

Comment:

I D Number: 7656

Recommendation for Trena Turner

Please accept my recommendation of Trena Turner for the California 2020 Citizens Redistricting Committee. I have worked closely with Trena for many years and have had the pleasure to personally witness her commitment to projects, people, teams and her family. Trena and I have a long history because we have known each other since the seventies.
My relationship with Trena has become one of sisterhood. I find her to be a strong support, consistent in her exemplary behavior and dedicated and committed to each area of assignment. Trena is sincere and caring, yet she is a no nonsense individual. She shares her experiences freely with others. She acts as a resource to other leaders and is heavily relied on by other team members.
Trena has such a warm personality and people automatically gravitate to her because they can feel her genuine concern for their well-being. I most certainly feel comfortable in my recommendation of such a remarkable person and I am proud to say she can conquer anything for such a crucial and critical role for this society.

Sincerely,
Pastor Patrice MucCular
New Covenant Tabernacle of Lodi
[Redacted]
Lodi, CA 95240

Comment 983, submitted by Verdelle Burford

How Submitter Knows Applicant: Friend

Submitted On: 10/31/2019

Comment:

I have known Trena Turner for 26 years. We became neighbors and friends upon moving into the same neighborhood in 1993. Our children became friends and grew up together.

As parents we prayed, watched and guided our children through the challenging years of elementary, middle and high school. There were many days of tears, questioning our decisions and "thank God they made it." Trena is praised and loved by her children, well respected in the neighborhood and in the schools, The high level of integrity, love and compassion she embraces speaks for itself, through her generosity and love for people.

Trena and I are both Pastors wives. We have had many talks about our roles as leaders. As the Assistant Pastor of Victory in Praise, Trena is a visionary, mentor, teacher extraordinary, she provides spiritual counseling with wisdom and love, people are inspired, uplifted, changed through gifted singing. Her love for people is shown through the diversity of the congregation, all worship together.

As the Executive Director of the Faith in the Valley, a multi faith based organization focus on community empowerment. Since leading this diverse organization, she was instrumental in the gathering of about 2000 people in Fresno to share and discuss ideas and provide a plate form that empowered people to use their voices to make change.

It is not so important what people say in front of you or a crowd, but how they backup what they say behind the scenes, in support, in consistency, in what they do. Actions speak louder the words.

Based on these attributes I highly recommend Mrs. Trena Turner for consideration to serve as a commission member.

Comment 1284, submitted by Lynette Piggeé-Piñero

How Submitter Knows Applicant: Victory In Praise Church

Submitted On: 11/05/2019

Comment:

Dear 2020 Citizens Redistricting Commission:
This public comment is written on behalf of Mrs. Trena L. Turner to serve as a 2020 commission member. I have known and worked with Trena for a number of years and was pleased to learn of her interest in applying to be on California's 2020 Citizens Redistricting Committee through Shape California's Future. She will make an amazing Ambassador for California, the city and community that she works, lives, and serves in.
In my mind, Trena has the intelligence, drive, and discipline that are essential to succeed as a valuable commission member for California. Furthermore, she understands the importance of public servant, as well as community service, which is very instrumental in the practice and profession of which she is a part of today. This has been demonstrated by her leadership commitments to her family, friends, and community.
Trena has proven to me that she can analyze a vast array of varied ideas, communication, and business issues. She possesses an active and facile mind. Trena also is very articulate and well-spoken. She is always very effective at expressing her point of view. Trena has proven to me that she can analyze a vast array of varied ideas, communication, and business issues. Her leadership and coaching skills are phenomenal and used to motivate and mentor others into being the best that they can be.
In short, I highly recommend Ms. Trena L. Turner for this valued and prestige committee position. I am confident that she will be a true asset to your committee.

Comment 1288, submitted by Michelle McDaniel

How Submitter Knows Applicant: Congregation Member

Submitted On: 11/05/2019

Comment:

November 5, 2019

To whom it may concern,

I am writing this letter of public support and endorsement of Trena Turner, applicant for the 2020 Citizens Redistricting Commission. I have known Mrs. Turner for 13 years, having met her through her role as First Lady, Minister, Director of Children's Ministry, Co- Facilitator for Friends for Life at Victory In Praise Church of Stockton, Ca; Mentor; and other roles within the church.

Mrs. Turner is one of the most admirable and respectable African American Woman in leadership I know. Her ability to effectively plan, organize, implement, and manage individuals around common goals, are qualities that set her apart from others in leadership. Her excitement and positive energy towards new tasks/projects benefiting others, inspire creativity and motivation in all she works with and who are a part of her team. She provides timely feedback and response to members when overseeing projects/tasks. She supports plans and ideas, and ensures individuals have what they need to be successful. I have grown in leadership capacity because of her mentorship and guidance. Her ability to problem solve and work through obstacles efficiently with poise and grace is an example of her usage of inner strength and fortitude in ensuring the completion of a task at hand, no matter how great or small the task. All tasks are approached with a commitment to excellence.

Her confidence in her Faith, self and others, speaks to her ability to foresee the best outcomes possible, even during initial stages of planning and project development. I have experienced personally and have been witnessed to Mrs. Turner supporting and motivating others; encouraging others when most needed; and guiding others in the implementation of successful organizational strategies and practices that have led to the successful completion of identified goals and objectives that have benefited the Church, community at large, and each person that has played a role in the project/tasks. Her ability to engage others in the use of their personal strengths for a common goal, speaks to her ability to organize groups of people collectively but more importantly to her ability to foster positive relationships with each individual on a personal level that often continues beyond the task at hand.

I have always found Mrs. Turner to be approachable as an individual in leadership. Her knowledge, skill set, and experience working with individuals makes her an ideal candidate for the 2020 Citizens Redistricting Commission.
Her ability to balance her commitment to ethics, morals, values, and the welfare of others, is what I have come to admire most about Mrs. Turner's leadership at Victory In Praise Church and with Faith In the Valley. In both capacities she operates as a social worker working with individuals of diverse backgrounds, diverse socio-economic statuses, diverse ethnicities; and diverse cultures offering support, knowledge, resources, and advocacy for improved ways of living by the removal of barriers and obstacles to individuals and groups of individuals. Her compassion for others can be observed in the work she does daily in engaging with others at different levels of interaction and advocacy. From your first encounter with her, she is friendly and personable. She cares about others and their life experiences. She cares about the members of her congregation and the community at large. She cares about the welfare of the City and social issues affecting citizens of the State of California. I have witnessed her engage with individuals from diverse cultures, backgrounds, socio-economic status, and of varying ages with the same love and respect that she exhibits with her family and close friends.

I am always inspired upon hearing her speak from the ministerial pulpit or in general interaction about the direction she is allowing God to lead her in. She has a love and inherent passion for helping others in the congregation and community at large. She cares about the issues that are relevant to members of her congregation and to others in the community, State, and Country. Given her strengths and skills, Mrs. Turner would be an asset to the 2020 Citizens Redistricting Commission.

It is with great honor, that I endorse Mrs. Trena Turner for the 2020 Citizens Redistricting Commission.
Thank you,
Michelle McDaniel, LCSW

Comment 1350, submitted by Alberta Johnson

How Submitter Knows Applicant: Parishioner/Sunday School Teacher

Submitted On: 11/05/2019

Comment:

To: The 2020 Citizens Redistricting Commission Selection Committee:

I have known Mrs. Trena Turner close to 20 years. I am one of the parishioners in the church, in which Mrs. Turner serves as the Executive Pastor. From the day that I met Trena it was evident that she was a person with vision and passion, a global thinker who is interested and open to innovative ideas and ways to make the lives of others better. She is an intelligent, quick witted, analytical, energetic, caring and compassionate person who encourages others to reach their full potential. Trena has a 'can do' attitude and is concerned that people have fair representation on the issues that affect them most. She sees challenges and obstacles as opportunities to develop new skills or to gain insight into a problem or process. I would also describe her as an encourager, on the side lines rooting for others to succeed in whatever endeavor they set their mind to. She is proactive and seeks out best practices on leadership, teaching, community issues, etc. to ensure that she has relevant and up to date information and she shares this information so that the church can identify the needs of the community. As a public speaker she is a great communicator, including relatable stories and analogies that quickly drive home the point for the topic that is being presented. Her effective communication skills carry over into personal one-on-one conversations as well. I have attended meetings, conferences, trainings in which Trena is the facilitator, and in each event, she listens attentively, following up with appropriate questions to gain understanding and insight before providing a response.
I see Trena as an advocate for all people regardless of race, creed, sex, or religious affiliation. I have seen her advocate for people from diverse groups, whether they be from the City of Stockton or other regions in our nation as indicated by her work within the church and community, specifically with Faith in the Valley. Trena's leadership skills, breadth of knowledge and insight from working at the grass-roots level in the community will aid in fulfilling her role as a member of the 2020 Citizens Redistricting Commission.

Comment 1995, submitted by Curtis Lamont Smith

How Submitter Knows Applicant: Coworker

Submitted On: 11/10/2019

Comment:

I am writing this letter of public support and endorsement of Trena Turner, applicant for the 2020 Citizens Redistricting Commission. I have had the pleasure to work with Trena Turner on the board of directors for People and Congregations Together. Currently, I serve under her leadership as Chapter Director for Faith in the Valley. In which she is the Executive Director. Pastor Trena is more than qualified to sit on this commission solely based on experience; Nonetheless, her acute sense of this task is vital to the equitable representation of all. As one of the directors, I have had opportunity to learn from her demonstrative approach to justice. Trena Turner has analysis of California that stems from her own personal experiences and from the many people she has had the opportunity to meet. I don't believe she has ever encountered a stranger. Everyone I have seen her interact with feels that they are instant comrades. She has a keen sense of democratic practice and the ability to sit with anyone from an opposite view and unbiasely work in unity. She knows how to focus and keep others engaged and on task. Trena Turner demonstrates justice, equality and love for all. Her management skills has helped to take five individual LLC's and merge the into the largest multi-faith, multi-racial, and multi-cultural community organizing network in the state. She possess the ability to identify a problem and provide an in depth analysis with solution oriented strategies. Yes, her faith is a strong asset to a keeping a positive attitude that is keeps the space full of energy. Again, It is with great honor that I am submitting this endorsement of Trena Turner, applicant for the 2020 Citizens Redistricting Commission.

Comment 2020, submitted by Robert "Bobby" Bivens,

How Submitter Knows Applicant: I know Pastor Trena Turner from working on various projects to improve the Greater Stockton Community.

Submitted On: 11/11/2019

Comment:

I have known Trena Turner for over ten years. I have worked with her on civic engagement projects that have provided direct benefits to the citizens of the city of Stockton, County of San Joaquin, State of California and the United States of America.
Trena has the ability to work with different types of people and projects that enhance the quality of life for people in need of an advocate, counselor, leader in business or community engagement processes that require the knowledge and capacity to analyze complex or difficult problems.
In my working with Trena, we have worked on the same side of public benefit issues and we have been opponents in some issues the have required us to meet and discuss complex and serious related to how the best ways are to achieve assistance and benefits for the constituents that we serve or governmental, processes for the greatest good of the community. for these reasons I highly recommend Pastor Trena Turner to be appointed to the commission.

Comment 2788, submitted by Ashlin Malouf

How Submitter Knows Applicant: Colleague

Submitted On: 12/05/2019

Comment:

It is an honor to make a public comment of support for Pastor Trena Turner, applicant for the 2020 Citizens Redistricting Commission. I have known Pastor Trena for the past 6 years. We met through our mutual work in faith-based organizing with the Faith in Action Network (formerly the PICO National Network). Pastor Trena and I served on a strategic planning process together for Faith in Action, and for the past two years have been working together through the work of Faith in the Valley and PICO CA. In spaces we have shared Pastor Trena consistently shows up with authenticity, curiosity, presence, faith and drive. When she makes a commitment, she sees it all the way to the end, and does so in a spirit of excellence.

Should Pastor Trena become a commissioner she will bring a number of talents and capacities; among them her ability to foresee the questions that need to be asked to create a comprehensive plan, Pastor Trena is in active relationship with community and brings diverse lens', stories and experiences to the table, and Pastor Trena is a seeker of truth, she will remain impartial, gather comprehensive information and then make well informed choices to the benefit of the whole.

Comment 3029, submitted by Rev. Zachary Hoover

How Submitter Knows Applicant: Colleague in community organizing

Submitted On: 12/09/2019

Comment:

Dear Selection Committee Members:

I am writing to give my strongest possible recommendation for Pastor Trena Turner's participation and inclusion in the redistricting commission for our state. Ms. Turner has been a significant leader for years in the Central Valley working for the inclusion of those most often excluded from the political process. She has worked in her ministry and in her profession to lift up those who are often ignored, stepped over, or stepped on. Pastor Trena is also a key leader in PICO California, serving not only as Executive Director of Faith in the Valley, an organization respected by elected officials and community members across the San Joaquin Valley, but also in our state network. She is a member of the committee deciding on how to spend over one million dollars in funds for our state network as well as a part of a select cohort of directors, of which I am a part, who are working together to design strategies for increasing belonging and inclusion in our state. The applicant is well qualified, of sound moral judgment, and a clear communicator in all regards. She is a team player and will contribute to a positive and effective process of negotiated outcomes for the commission. Trena will bring her expertise of the communities of the Central Valley, including Hmong, Latino, Black / African American, and low income white communities to the table and weigh proposals thoughtfully. I sincerely hope Pastor Trena Turner is chosen to participate for this commission, as it will make the future of our state just a little bit brighter.

Sincerely,

Rev. Zachary Hoover
Executive Director, LA Voice
Commissioner, Probation Commission, County of Los Angeles

Comment 3039, submitted by Michael Bell

How Submitter Knows Applicant: Lead Faculty for Lead Now California

Submitted On: 12/09/2019

Comment:

Dear 2020 Citizens Redistricting Commission,

For the past 15 years I have developed and facilitated foundation funded fellowships designed to support leaders selected based on their significant powerful positive impact in their communities. Trena Turner recently completed a year long fellowship entitled "Lead Now California" Lead Now California is a statewide fellowship where leaders are selected for their potential to support and promote healthy communities where everyone is able to thrive and reach their highest potential. Trena was a leader among leaders over the past year. Her authenticity, strong morale character and courage in the face of adversity faced by those around her have been an inspiration to the entire cohort. Trena's radiates a powerful wisdom that draws people in. She listens with her eyes, ears, head and heart. She speaks only after listening carefully to others and is always able to synthesize and help advance the issues we are working on. She is a strategic thinker who can identify leverage points when addressing complex issues. Trena Turner entire life has prepared her to make a significant and enduring contribution to the work of the commission. I offer my highest recommendation for her candidacy.

Comment 3472, submitted by Jose Garcia

How Submitter Knows Applicant: Latino Nonprofit Accelerator

Submitted On: 04/27/2020

Comment:

Dear 2020 Citizens Redistricting Commission,

It is with great enthusiasm and respect, that we at the Latino Community Foundation (LCF) submit this letter in support of Pastor Trena L. Turner, to be selected as a member of the 2020 Citizens Redistricting Commission. For decades, Pastor Trena has been a visionary civic, corporate and faith leader who exemplifies the very best of humanity. Pastor Trena's leadership is built on values and executed with immense integrity. The force, wisdom and determination that she carries with her is unique and critical at this pivotal moment in our nation's history. We are deeply honored to submit this letter in her support.

Pastor Trena comes from Stockton, California, the most diverse city in America. Today, she leads an organization that is truly inclusive of all ethnicities, faiths, and genders. She unites people on our shared American values and wants nobody to feel left behind.

In 2017, as the Executive Director of Faith in the Valley, Pastor Trena, took part in LCF's Latino Nonprofit Accelerator, a 16-month incubator for Latino nonprofits that provides marketing training, fundraising mentorship, a series of retreats to amplify and accelerate the impact of grassroots organizations. Through the Accelerator, Pastor Trena exemplified her ability to lead. She was a rising star in the program because although she had decades of experience, she was hungry to learn and develop as s leader. She is deeply curious, inquisitive and one of the best listeners we know.

As the only African American in a Latino program, she took extra time to build trust and show sincere interest in people's personal stories, experiences and helped them celebrate their biggest wins. She went above and beyond for her organization and for others. She was extremely detail oriented, followed through on projects, and ensured that nobody's time was ever wasted. She was grateful, strategic and was skilled at articulating her deep reflections with the group. She also brought light and love to the program. She had her church choir welcome us to Stockton for one of the Retreats, she danced with everyone and told us stories about the Hmong and Mexican community over dinner.

Her unique background as a corporate, faith, now a regional nonprofit leader—gives her the deep experience and understanding necessary to sit on such an important Commission. With an open mind she is willing to learn from others but also to lead them when required. Her ability to relate to people, to listen, and to understand them is an incredible skill which would serve as a tremendous asset within the Commission.

We are personally honored to know and work with Pastor Trena. In our eyes, she is extraordinary and her impact in the Central Valley and all of California will be felt for decades to come. Pastor Trena Turner is a true community anchor because she is relentless in her pursuit of excellence and justice.
She is one of hundreds of leaders of colors in California whose wisdom, experience, and multi-culturalism are needed at the decision-making table. We hope her vast experience is recognized, and her voice is appointed to this Commission.

With love and respect,

Jacqueline Martinez Garcel, CEO; & Masha Chernyak, Vice President of Programs of the Latino Community Foundation

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