Donna Zapata – Top Latinos

At 71 years young, Donna Zapata is a force of nature, dedicated to serving her community with compassion, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to making a difference. As the District Representative for California State Senator Mike McGuire, Donna handles all casework that comes through the office, often serving as the last resort for individuals and families in need. Whether it’s helping the Latino community navigate issues like unemployment benefits or paid family leave, Donna is a trusted advocate who listens deeply and works tirelessly to find solutions.

Donna’s secret to success is simple yet profound: listening. She believes that truly hearing people’s concerns and being able to help them is the greatest reward. Her dedication has not gone unnoticed—Donna has been honored as “Woman of the Year” and continues to be a beacon of hope and support for the Latino community.

With over 42 years of experience working in Sonoma County, Donna’s career is a testament to her passion for community service. Before joining Senator McGuire’s team, she served as the Hispanic Market Business Development Officer for Redwood Credit Union and proudly led the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Sonoma County as its Executive Director. In every role, Donna has excelled at building bridges between organizations and the Hispanic community, ensuring that voices are heard and needs are met.

Her leadership extends beyond her professional roles. Donna has served on numerous boards and committees, including the Sonoma County Grand Jury and the Sonoma County Human Rights Commission, where she was appointed by then-Supervisor Mike McGuire. Her contributions have earned her prestigious accolades, such as the 2017 California Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Latina Empresaria Award and induction into the Latina Hall of Fame.

Born and raised in Sonoma County, Donna is the second oldest of nine children. Her deep roots in the community have shaped her lifelong commitment to service. She is a proud mother to one son and grandmother to two grandsons, with whom she loves spending her free time. When she’s not with her family, Donna enjoys gardening and cooking authentic Mexican dishes using her mother’s cherished recipes.

Donna’s love for her community is as strong as her love for a good cafecito. She finds joy in supporting her “mijos and mijas” and takes pride in being a resource and advocate for those in need. Her legacy is one of connection, compassion, and an unyielding dedication to making Sonoma County a better place for all.