By Ruben Kliatchko

Romer Cristobal, a member of the Board of Directors for Joshua’s House, has worked for the State of California for over 30 years. His background is diverse from serving as an Appeals Analyst, a Grants Program Officer, a Drug and Alcohol Compliance Officer and as part of the state management team. 

Currently, he is part of the Natomas Chamber of Commerce’s executive team as their 1st Vice President, Board Member and Chair of Community Engagement for the Hamptons Community and Founding Member/President of the Hamptons Community Foundation.

The Hamptons Community Foundation is a 501, c, 3 nonprofit that provides scholarships to students in underrepresented high schools each year. The Foundation also provides neighborhood clean-up activities, conducts food drives and offers food assistance.

Romer tried to offer these services through of his Hamptons Owners Association (HOA),but wasn’t able to recruit sponsorships because they weren’t able to provide tax credits for donations. So, Romer created the nonprofit Foundation in 2021.

The mission of the Foundation is to help build a safe and resilient neighborhood, empower communities to address problems and to help the neighborhood receive more recognition and support. For example, recently, the Foundation organized a backpack drive for those dealing with homelessness.

Since its inception, the Foundation has developed a sunglass partnership enabling them to give away $50,000 worth of 100% UV/Polarized glasses to those who need them; distribution of nearly 1,000 dental care kits to children; and have participated in the Kings/Raley’s Do Good Program.

The City of Sacramento recently appointed Romer as of one of their Ambassadors and he will be expected to serve as a liaison between the City and his community to discuss upcoming community engagement activities and events, and share community needs and concerns.

“We are looking forward to partnering with Joshua’s House and finding businesses who are willing to donate food and food products for residents of Joshua’s House,” Romer said.  

He added, “I want to give the best of myself each day to Joshua’s House and be part of an organization that deeply cares about our community and humanity. When you believe that whatever you’re doing is tied to a purpose much bigger than yourself, great things start to happen.”