D. Everett Rice
Board Member

Everett Rice has served on the staff of several California State Legislators for the past fourteen years. He has worked for Assemblyman Bruce Thompson as Legislative Director; and Senator Rob Hurtt the Senate Caucus Leader, as his Legislative Coordinator, where he worked on business, regulatory, economic development and air quality issues. At the end of 1995, Everett entered the private sector starting his own consulting firm where he put his skills to work for community interests.

In the fall of 1996, Mr. Rice rejoined the Legislature as the Legislative Assistant to Senator Raymond N. Haynes. He served initially as the Senator's special consultant on education, community and economic development, regulatory reform and urban issues. In that capacity, he has been very instrumental in developing and enacting legislation that encompass economic empowerment, Charitable Choice, and the California Neighborhood Initiative. Before leaving Senator Haynes' employ he was appointed to the position of Capitol Director.

Currently, Mr. Rice serves as the Special Assistant to Senator Dick Ackerman, as his lead on Community and Economic Development Issues and Projects. Mr. Rice also now serves as the Executive Director for the Community Renewal Project.

The Community Renewal Project is a joint partnership between the Capitol Resource Institute and California Legislators. Its purpose is to provide information, training and resources to faith-based and community organizations; and to provide the tools necessary to build lasting networks and partnerships that lead to community vitalization and sustainability.

Further, in his dual roles, he aids in the coordination of efforts between the Legislators and their community partners. These efforts include the organization of the Annual Community Renewal Summit and Regional Conferences. These events are the primary tools used by the Project to bring "blueprints" of successful programs and organizational training to local communities.