Ricardo Zavala has over 14 years of experience in community leadership. He was the first City of Austin Community Development Commissioner City Council appointee for 78744, overseeing health and housing federal funds. As Founder and President of Dove Springs Proud, Ricardo has given back to over 2500 youth and residents of 78744 and provided over 30 college scholarships.

Ricardo has served as Co-Chair of Widen elementary Campus Advisory Council; Chair of the Friends of the Mexican-American Culture Center; first AISD Community Bond Oversight Committee member from 78744 appointed by School Board; Harris County Juvenile Detention Alternative Initiative Disproportionate Minority Confinement Task Force member; Co-Chair of the Austin Recovery Oriented System of Care; VP for East Austin College Prep Academy School Board; Chair of East Cesar Chavez Contact Team Education Committee; Chair of Austin Young Professionals Urban League Education Committee; and AISD Career and Technical Education Advisory Committee.