Welcome to VIDA!
About VIDA
VIDA's mission is to empower all students to become agents of change in their communities and beyond; to foster education that meets the needs of the communities we serve; and to help develop pathways to meaningful participation in local, state, and federal government decision-making processes.

In need of counsling?
Contact Felisa Vilaubi
Make an appointment here: Link
In person and online appointments available.
If you have any issue finding a time that works, email Felisa with your student ID number at vilaubifelisa@fhda.edu
VIDA 2026-2027 Fellowship Now Open
Democracy in Action (DiA) fellowship, formally known as the VIDA Project Internship. Fellows commit and take on leadership roles, but are accountable for major responsibilities in the projects/campaigns they are placed on. The ultimate goal is to build student power and be agents of change.
Participating students will take 10 hours a week of fieldwork, weekly team meetings, training and mentorship. This includes working on VIDA wide events as well as program logistics. Some projects include conferences, LSC graduation, Project Fair, Open House and others.
This fellowship is designed to offer training, mentorship, and a stipend for De Anza students who have taken extraordinary leadership in projects that promote community college access and success.
Applications due May 17th. For any questions contact, please contact plascenciadelgadodaniela@fhda.edu
APPLY
VIDA Student Leadership Award
This award is for students who have exhibited extraordinary leadership on or off campus
in their time at De Anza. This year recipients of the Student Leadership Award have the option to be recognized in the Office of College life Gala.
All De Anza student leaders are eligible. Maximum three nominations per nominator.
Recipients of the award are invited to the Office of College Life Student Leadership Recognition event on Wednesday, June 3th from 4-6pm in the Campus Center Conference rooms A&B. If selected, more information will be sent on how to RSVP.
Stand Up for Black Lives and Against White Supremacy
VIDA stands with those around the country, and the world, who are protesting the murder
of George Floyd, and other Black people who have recently been murdered by the police.
We need to keep fighting for change until the police no longer serve the interests of white supremacy. White supremacy remains a core part of every aspect of our society, from who gets loans for homes, to who is protected from COVID-19, to who is protected by police, and who is murdered by them. We will not stop our work until no more Black and Brown people are murdered by the police. We will not stop our work until White Supremacy is completely uprooted from our society.
Engaged Learning
If you are looking for a community partner for your service learning class, visit our Engaged Learning webpage.
Donate to VIDA
VIDA could not exist without generous supporters who believe in the power of civic
engagement. After the death of Senator Vasconcellos, VIDA received an extraordinary
pledge to perpetuate the vision of the Institute of Community and Civic Engagement.
Community members Jim and Becky Morgan pledged a challenge grant of $198,000 over three years in honor of Senator Vasconcellos'
long history of civic work. Your gift will help the program match their generous donation.
Important information to direct your gift to VIDA:
- Click the "Donate Now" button below.
- Fill out the form with your information.
- Under Program, choose "Other."
- Type "VIDA" in the box and the amount you would like to donate.
Donate Now For more information, contact Robin Latta at the Foothill-De Anza Foundation by emailing lattarobin@fhda.edu
