Victoria Garibaldi Receives Cornerstone Award for Exceptional Leadership
Victoria Garibaldi (middle) stands with Councilmember David Cohen, D4 (left), and Supervisor Otto Lee, D3.
At the D4 Stars Awards Gala on January 16, Councilmember David Cohen presented Victoria Garibaldi, Program Manager at WeHOPE at Berryessa Safe Parking Program, with the Cornerstone Award—a recognition that honors her transformative leadership and unwavering dedication to our community.
For those of us who work alongside Victoria, this award comes as no surprise. Her impact at Berryessa has been profound, not just in measurable outcomes, but in the lives she touches every single day.
Building a Foundation for Success
Since Berryessa opened in March 2025, Victoria has led the program to achieve extraordinary results. Under her leadership, 43 residents have transitioned into permanent or emergency housing. The site operates at full capacity, serving 130 participants—and Victoria knows each person by name.
Through partnerships she cultivated with Goodwill's STRIVE program, 14-15 residents have secured employment. Many now carpool together to work each morning, a testament to the community Victoria has fostered. She's built collaborative relationships with Bay Area Community Health, Living Water Ministry, Muslim Sisters Helping, and Abrahamic Alliance—ensuring residents have access to healthcare, meals, and comprehensive support.
Walk through Berryessa today and you'll find a thriving community garden maintained by residents, growing strawberries, peppers, cucumbers, and herbs. From day one, Victoria encouraged residents to take ownership of the space. They've created something beautiful together.
Leading with Heart and Purpose
Victoria's approach to leadership is deeply personal. As a certified substance abuse counselor, she maintains an open-door policy for anyone struggling with addiction or facing challenges. She builds trust through consistency, compassion, and genuine care.
When one resident with mental health challenges faced the possibility of homelessness again, Victoria didn't hesitate. She ensured he had shelter, daily meals, and regular check-ins. Her commitment to dignity—to seeing each person's humanity—defines her work.
Councilmember David Cohen visits the site regularly. His office maintains close communication with Victoria, and city officials consistently note how proud they are to see this program thrive. That success is a direct reflection of Victoria's leadership.
A Well-Earned Honor
The Cornerstone Award recognizes what those of us at WeHOPE witness every day: Victoria has built more than a parking program. She's created a community where people feel safe, supported, and capable of transforming their lives.
Her work reminds us that real change happens through relationships—through showing up with compassion, consistency, and an unwavering belief in people's potential.
Congratulations, Victoria. This honor is deeply deserved. 💙
