Candelita Ralston joined Sycuan Health Center in 2021 as a Social Services Coordinator. She has completed vocational training in Business Administration and is currently pursuing studies at the International Institute of Spiritual Development (IISD) and Core College, where she is training to become certified and ordained in Ministry.
Candelita’s professional journey began at the age of 15 at the Sycuan Library, which transitioned into an assistant role in the Tribal Office. Her experiences led to serving two terms as Sycuan’s Tribal Secretary. In addition to her full-time role in the Social Services Department, Candelita co-owns several sober living homes and a trucking company with her husband.
What Candelita appreciates most about working at Sycuan is the close-knit environment and the opportunity to grow alongside her colleagues. She values the encouragement and supports she receives, which allows her to advance in her career and make a meaningful impact in the community.
A woman of deep faith, Candelita is dedicated to her family and committed to serving others. She is a mother, wife, sister, and friend, embodying compassion and support. At the age of 22, Candelita courageously confronted the juvenile court system to gain custody of her younger siblings after the tragic loss of their mother. Representing herself for over five years, she became well-versed in child custody laws and the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA). Today, she is a passionate advocate for family unity and works tirelessly to give a voice to those in need.