On Friday, September 26, 2025, more than 100 community members gathered at the Yountville Commons (formerly Yountville Elementary School) for Supporting Immigrant Employees: What Napa Employers Need to Know. The workshop was presented by Napa Valley Together in partnership with Congressman Mike Thompson, and featured a panel of regional experts. The goal: to equip local employers, service providers, and residents with accurate information and practical tools to navigate today’s rapidly shifting immigration landscape.
Leaders at the Table
The program brought together a wide range of voices:
- U.S. Congressman Mike Thompson, California’s 4th District
- Terence Mulligan, President & CEO, Napa Valley Community Foundation
- Madeline (“Mady”) Hernandez, North Bay Regional Directing Attorney, Immigration Institute of the Bay Area (IIBA)
- Jenny Ocón, Executive Director, UpValley Family Centers
- Alissa Abdo, Executive Director, On The Move
- Esmeralda Gil, Interim Executive Director, Puertas Abiertas Family Resource Center
- Lt. Hernandez, Napa County Sheriff’s Office (joined for audience Q&A)
Together, they shared updates on the current immigration climate, celebrated local achievements, and offered employers actionable guidance.
Napa Valley Community Foundation: A Decade of Impact
Terence Mulligan opened with the history of Napa Valley Community Foundation’s investment in immigration and citizenship. In 2012, a study revealed a major “citizenship gap” in Napa County. With support from hundreds of donors, the Foundation launched the One Napa Valley Initiative (ONVI) in 2013. Since then, more than 2,600 residents have become U.S. citizens, and thousands more have received legal help.
Today, the effort continues under the broader umbrella of Napa Valley Together, which not only helps residents pursue citizenship but also works to ease fears and build knowledge in an increasingly challenging climate for immigrants. To keep pace, NVCF has doubled its commitment, pledging $500,000 annually while nonprofit partners raise the balance.
A Congressional Perspective
Congressman Thompson framed immigration as a moral issue. He underscored the significant economic contributions immigrants make, including more than $25 billion paid annually into Social Security—funds that support the broader population, but which undocumented immigrants themselves will never be able to access in retirement. He also pointed to the role of DACA recipients, who are part of critical employment groups like teachers and armed services personnel, helping to address workforce shortages in key sectors.
Beyond economics, Thompson stressed the importance of partnership, knowing your rights, and community collaboration. He cautioned that when immigrants withdraw from community life out of fear of federal enforcement actions, public safety suffers—for example, when fewer people feel safe reporting crimes. He closed by encouraging attendees to call his office if they need assistance with immigration issues, emphasizing his commitment to helping families navigate these challenges.
Results That Matter
Jenny Ocón highlighted the measurable impact of the initiative’s work over the past 13 years:
- 134,000+ people reached with information on citizenship benefits.
- 13,619 legal consultations provided.
- 1,265 enrolled in ESL/civics classes.
- 536 volunteers donated 15,484 hours.
- 8,059 applications submitted to the federal government.
- 2,678 new citizens welcomed.
Protecting Families & Workplaces
Speakers also addressed the challenges created by today’s policy environment. Mady Hernandez described rapid changes in enforcement and naturalization, which have created fear among eligible residents.
Alissa Abdo offered protective practices for organizations: understand the 4th, 5th, and 6th Amendments, define public vs. private spaces, “harden” worksites with clear signage and access controls, and assign trained staff to interact with officers. Employers were encouraged to establish clear procedures, train staff, and maintain proper documentation.
Practical Resources
- Napa Valley Together: napavalleytogether.org
- North Bay Rapid Response Network: 707-800-4544
During the Q&A, panelists emphasized the importance of clear workplace policies, proper signage, and avoiding misinformation. Above all, they urged the community to respond calmly and seek trusted resources if enforcement actions occur.
Looking Ahead
As immigration policy continues to evolve, Napa Valley Together remains committed to supporting both immigrant families and the employers who stand beside them. Together with nonprofit partners, civic leaders, and the community at large, we are working to build a stronger, more inclusive Napa Valley for all.