Ruben Chacon

Baldwin Park Adult & Community Education

Nominated in 2015

Ruben Chacon is an intelligent person who was born with severe cerebral palsy. He communicates with a voice simulator and limited verbal ability. Ruben enrolled at the Baldwin Park Adult and Community Education Program seeking help in raising his reading, writing, and math skills. He continued on to Mount San Antonio College, where he received two AA degrees in Business Management and Real Estate. Additionally, he has recently received his PhD in Philosophy.

One of his greatest gifts has been getting the students in the Adult Basic Skills program to accept severely handicapped individuals. Ruben has overcome many of the students’ attitudes from not understanding his challenges. He has made many friends during his attendance.

Ruben’s desire to work has led him to a number of jobs including income tax preparation, a candy business, and being a docent for the Los Angeles Fair in the Fine Arts Museum. He has also served as a classroom assistant at the adult school. Ruben’s positive attitude and willingness to learn and work hard will certainly benefit as him as seeks employment.