RSG is proud to spotlight Dena Fuentes, a Director whose leadership and commitment to equity have driven impactful housing and economic development solutions across California. With over three decades of public sector leadership and a sharp eye for strategy and collaboration, Dena brings unmatched experience to RSG’s mission of creating vibrant, opportunity-rich communities.
Since joining RSG in 2022, Dena has supported jurisdictions in delivering complex, community-focused projects—from implementing rent stabilization ordinances in Pomona and Pico Rivera to coordinating Brownfield redevelopment efforts in South Gate. Her expertise spans affordable housing finance, community engagement, economic revitalization, and structuring layered funding to support both infrastructure and human services. Prior to RSG, Dena served as Deputy Executive Officer for the County of San Bernardino’s Community Development and Housing Agency, overseeing the Housing Authority, Office of Homeless Services, and development programs countywide.
“Revitalizing communities to bring equity, opportunity, and hope for families, residents, and businesses is the essence of local government. Being a collaborative facilitator and problem solver to achieve community results inspires who I am and what I’m about.”
Dena’s recent work includes leading efforts to secure federal and state grants for housing and homelessness programs, assisting local housing corporations with financial restructuring, and supporting long-range planning for housing development and neighborhood transformation. She has facilitated the financing of over 1,000 affordable housing units, developed investment strategies, and played a central role in San Bernardino County’s redevelopment dissolution process. Dena’s hands-on leadership to help cities and nonprofits unlock resources, implement policy, and uplift their communities. Based in Southern California, Dena is a driving force in the region’s pursuit of equitable development.
“I’m driven to build communities where one job is enough, families come first, and every person has the power to chase their dreams. These communities will be safe, vibrant, and rooted in equity, designed with the environment in mind and fueled by innovation that lifts everyone up.”
She remains active in organizations such as Housing California, SCANPH, the San Diego Housing Federation, and regularly shares her insights as a speaker at the League of California Cities. RSG is honored to have Dena on our team—advancing our collective goals through deep experience, clear vision, and heart.
Upcoming Conferences!
RSG’s Tara Matthews (she/her), Principal, and Dena Fuentes, Director, are excited to speak at the League of California Cities City Leaders Summit on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at the SAFE Credit Union Convention Center in Sacramento. Tara and Dena will be joined by Rochelle Mills, President & CEO of Innovative Housing Opportunities, and Rebecca Louie, President & CEO at Wakeland Housing and Development Corporation, for their session Bridging Prosperity, which will highlight strategies to advance equitable development and community investment. Don’t miss this powerful panel and the chance to connect with city leaders from across California!
