Ruben Gonzales is the founder of Ollin Collaborative. A proud South Phoenix native now based in Washington, D.C., Ruben brings decades of experience in the nonprofit sector, philanthropy, and federal government to his work as a strategic partner for mission-driven organizations and individuals.

Ruben began his career as a community organizer in Los Angeles before building a career in leadership across the nonprofit sector and federal government. He served as a Commissioned Officer in the Biden-Harris White House, leading personnel strategy for domestic federal agencies, and went on to serve as Associate Director for External Affairs at the U.S. Peace Corps, overseeing communications, congressional relations, and strategic partnerships for an agency with operations in 64 countries. He currently serves as a Principal at Penchina Partners.

Earlier roles include Executive Director of the LGBTQ+ Victory Institute, Vice President of Philanthropy at the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute, Chief Development Officer at United Cerebral Palsy, and Deputy Vice President of Resource Development at UnidosUS, the nation's largest Latino civil rights organization.

I believe the best work happens in genuine partnership with the people and organizations I serve. Outside of work you'll find me taking a dance class, losing track of time in an art museum, searching for the perfect farmers market find, or on a smell walk with my Wheaten Terrier, Sadie Rose.