SAN DIEGO -- If he could, Ray Uzeta would make dropping in on one of 2 preschools operated by the Chicano Federation a daily habit.

"This whole thing was being built for another organization and then they pulled out," said Uzeta.

The Chicano Federation got its start in San Diego in 1968, primarily as a civil rights advocate for Latinos.

"In 1991, we started with a very small program training women to become state licensed day care providers, and that really opened up opportunities," said Uzeta.

A day care program soon turned into a preschool, and then into two preschools, complete with nutritional programs.

The Chicano Federation also began housing programs, including one specifically for seniors. The group started with one apartment complex and now has seven.

It is a long way from organizing a 1994 visit from Santa Claus at a Sherman Heights elementary school.

As for having the two top candidates for president attending the National Council of La Raza conference this weekend, Uzeta said it speaks volumes to how far the organization has come.

But even better is the success Federation programs have fostered through its board of directors, who plan to meet again next month and map out future goals.

"Out of that retreat will come, I'm sure, a new vision and direction from the board of directors and where we want the organization to be in the next five years," said Uzeta.