Katia Callahan’s story is one of dedication, resilience, and a deep-rooted passion for community service. Born and raised in the energetic heart of Mexico City, Katia pursued her studies in early childhood education and graduated as a kindergarten teacher. Her natural affinity for helping others and creating safe, nurturing spaces began early in life—values she has carried with her across borders and communities.
After relocating to San Francisco, Katia embraced a new chapter while raising her family. She became actively involved in her son’s education, dedicating her time to volunteering at his schools. It was there that she began to understand the profound impact that parent and community involvement can have on a child’s development and a school’s success. Her volunteer work laid the foundation for what would become a lifelong commitment to civic engagement.
Seven years ago, Katia moved to Chula Vista, a city that quickly captured her heart. Drawn by its warmth, diversity, and strong sense of community, she immersed herself in local life almost immediately. Today, Chula Vista is not only where she resides and works, but where she continues to volunteer with unwavering dedication. Katia is actively involved with seven local organizations, offering her time, ideas, and support to initiatives that uplift the lives of others.
One of the most impactful projects she has led is Eastlake Food to Go!, a Facebook community she founded on March 13, 2020—at the very onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. As local businesses faced sudden closures and uncertainty, Katia and her sister Dania came together to launch the page as a way to support small and family-owned restaurants that were struggling to survive. From beloved neighborhood eateries to local franchises, the page spotlighted the hardworking individuals who keep the culinary heartbeat of Chula Vista—and beyond—alive.
What makes Eastlake Food to Go! particularly special is its emphasis on storytelling and connection. The platform doesn’t just recommend dishes or places to eat—it celebrates the people behind the food: the entrepreneurs, the chefs, and the families who pour their dreams into every plate. It also highlights Chula Vista residents who operate businesses in other cities, showing that community pride transcends boundaries.
Over the years, the page has become a vital resource for residents looking to support local, discover new spots, and connect with one another during uncertain times. Katia’s initiative was not only timely—it was deeply impactful. It helped sustain businesses, protect jobs, and uplift spirits during one of the most challenging periods in recent memory.
Katia’s philosophy is simple yet powerful: a strong community is built through collaboration, compassion, and consistent action. She believes that by helping one another and staying engaged, every person can be a force for good. Her approach to service is marked by humility—she does not seek recognition or reward. Instead, she finds motivation in love, commitment, and the joy of giving back.
For the past five years, Katia has devoted countless hours to volunteering. Whether it’s early in the morning or late at night, rain or shine, tired or energized—she shows up. She shows up for her city, her neighbors, and the causes she believes in. Her work speaks volumes, but her character speaks even louder.
And she’s not slowing down.
Katia continues to seek new ways to contribute, always exploring opportunities to connect people, amplify local voices, and foster unity. Whether she’s supporting a new initiative, mentoring others, or simply offering a kind word, her impact continues to ripple across Chula Vista.
In a world where it’s easy to feel disconnected, Katia Callahan reminds us of the power of showing up, of serving with love, and of building bridges within our own neighborhoods. She embodies the spirit of community in its truest form—and Chula Vista is undoubtedly stronger because of her.
