Uncle Bob Santos Community Builder Award

The Filipino American Civic Employees of Seattle has established the “Uncle Bob Santos Community Builder Award” to honor Mr. Santos for his leadership in uniting people to pursue constructive change and commitment to socio-economic justice. He is a savvy organizer who has greatly impacted the community with positive change. He guides others to improve the quality of life for individuals and families in need. Uncle Bob is an exemplary model citizen for Seattle and the greater community. 

His key accomplishments include:

• Holding a key role in the revitalization of the International District-Chinatown for over 30 years.
• Establishing the International District Community Health Center, Denise Louie Childhood Education Center, Danny Woo Community Garden, International District Meal Voucher Program, and Seattle Chinatown International District Preservation and Development Authority.
• Serving as the U.S. Secretary’s Representative Department of Housing and Urban Development, Northwest/Alaska Region (1994-2001).
• Managing activities of 400 career staff in the States of Washington, Oregon, and Alaska.
• Representing the Clinton Administration on issues dealing with housing and issues related to 200 HUD programs.
• Publishing his first book, Hum Bows Not Hot Dogs, International Examiner Press, 2002.
• Coordinating the operation of Inter*Im Community Development Association, construction of Nihonmachi Terrace Family Housing Project, Lao Highland community center, and many others.

Uncle Bob inspires us to continue to give back to our community, as his passion is community involvement. Despite his very busy schedule as the Inter*Im Director for many years, he always gives his time to help the children and young leaders (Executive Development Institute, and Asian Pacific Islander Community Leadership Foundation) in our community. His volunteer work expands in many directions including: All-Night Homeless count sponsored by Nightwatch; Asian Community Leadership Forum Mentor; lecturer Seattle Central Community College, Seattle University, University of Washington, local high schools; Boardmember El Centro de la Raza; Boardmember, International District Emergency Center.

He reminds us to never give up our dreams, and instills hope by empowering us to care for the youth and elderly. He is the “internal fire” of passion for our community. 

Please join us in honoring our first “Uncle Bob Santos Community Builder Award.”

Read "Bob Santos" by Gary Iwamoto.