Mario Gonzales

Mario Gonzales, a native Texan turned Michigander since 2003, has been deeply rooted in community organizing. With nearly a decade in Kalamazoo during his academic and early professional years, he returned to Lansing in 2016, dedicating himself to a variety of local causes.

Mario’s career spans over 12 years across nonprofit sectors, from youth development to workforce initiatives and human rights advocacy. An AmeriCorps Alum and former program director at a volunteer service hub as well as a Latin-American cultural center, Mario is committed to solving societal issues through collaborative, human-centered approaches. A proud graduate of East Lansing High School and Western Michigan University with a Bachelor of Social Work, he aims to further his impact through an MBA from Michigan State University, focusing on social entrepreneurship.

Mario is passionate about cultivating a thriving Downtown Lansing community where everyone can flourish and live their best lives. His devotion to inclusivity and empowerment drives his efforts to create a welcoming environment for all residents and guests.