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As director of development and communication at the Farmworker and Landscaper Advocacy Project (FLAP), Arely Anaya leads fundraising, grant writing, and communications to sustain free legal and social services for low-wage immigrant workers across Illinois. Anaya, a Mexican American raised on the Southeast Side of Chicago, also mentors immigrant youth, engages in civic initiatives, and draws on her academic research to highlight issues of environmental justice.
What is your greatest career accomplishment to date?
One of my greatest career accomplishments has been helping secure significant grant funding that expanded FLAP’s reach across Illinois. This has allowed us to serve thousands more immigrant workers and their families, ensuring they know their rights and have access to justice regardless of income or immigration status. I am also proud of contributing to initiatives that bridge labor justice with environmental justice, raising awareness about how immigrant communities are disproportionately impacted by pollution and climate change.
What is your greatest personal accomplishment to date?
My greatest personal accomplishment has been pursuing my master’s degree in geography and environmental studies while working full time and supporting my family. Balancing work, school, and community leadership has been challenging, but it reflects my commitment to education and to creating meaningful change for immigrant communities. Personally, I also take pride in dedicating time to environmental volunteerism, which allows me to connect my academic interests in climate and geography with hands-on stewardship of the land.
What do you do today to impact your community?
Beyond my role at FLAP, I actively engage in community education and outreach. I mentor youth from immigrant families, helping them navigate higher education and professional opportunities. I also participate in local coalitions that advocate for climate justice, immigrant rights, and equitable access to resources. My volunteer work with Chicago’s forest preserves allows me to contribute to environmental restoration and sustainability efforts, connecting my love of nature with my commitment to community well-being. I do this work because I’ve seen firsthand the barriers our communities face, and I want to create pathways that make things easier for the next generation.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I see myself leading at the intersection of nonprofit leadership, policy advocacy, and community-based research—continuing to fight for immigrant and worker justice. I hope to leverage my graduate studies and professional experience to influence policies that address economic inequality and, while continuing to volunteer in initiatives that promote healthier and more sustainable communities.
What is the biggest issue that you want to help solve, and why?
I want to help solve the issue of environmental and economic injustice facing immigrant workers. Many of the communities I serve live in areas with disproportionate pollution, unsafe working conditions, and limited access to legal or social protections. Addressing this means fighting for systemic change—policies that protect workers, improve environmental health, and create equitable opportunities for families. It also means connecting grassroots environmental restoration efforts, like those I volunteer with, to larger systemic solutions.
What is a moment when you realized the impact of your work?
I realized the impact of my work when a farmworker shared that, because of FLAP’s support, they were able to recover stolen wages that made the difference in keeping a roof over their children’s heads for another month. What could have been just a financial victory became something far greater—restoring their dignity and giving them the confidence to stand up for themselves in the future. Moments like these remind me that our work is not only about solving immediate problems, but about empowering workers and strengthening entire families.
What advice would 10-year-old you be shocked to hear you followed?
That I chose a career in nonprofit leadership and public service. At ten years old, I thought success meant following a traditional career path. I never imagined that dedicating my life to advocacy, community organizing, and environmental justice could not only be a career but one that would bring recognition and impact.
What’s a cultural tradition that always brings you joy?
One tradition that always brings me joy is gathering with my family over home-cooked Mexican meals during holidays and celebrations. Sharing food, laughter, and stories keeps me connected to my roots and reminds me of the importance of family, culture, and community.
What song do you listen to that motivates you?
“Mana” by Latino America and “Bacilos” by Mi Primer Million.
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Connect with Arely Anaya on LinkedIn.
