Raul Marquez Guerrero is a proud son of immigrant parents from Oaxaca, Mexico. After years of seasonal work in the fields of the Pacific Northwest, Raul’s family settled permanently in Oregon, where they have called home for over 25 years. As the quintessential middle child of seven siblings, Raul was always surrounded by the support of his two parents, four sisters, two brothers, and his beloved dog, Mia. Family plays a central role in his life.
A lifelong Oregon resident, Raul graduated from McKay High School in 2018. During his senior year, he spearheaded a campaign that successfully raised $412,000, gaining bipartisan support from the Oregon legislature. These funds established Taylor’s House, the first overnight shelter for homeless youth aged 11-18 in the Mid-Willamette Valley. Raul’s early exposure to the world of politics led him to diverse experiences, including internships at the Oregon State Legislature and the Office of U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley in Washington, D.C.
In May 2022, Raul graduated from Willamette University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and a minor in Economics. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, he remained an active student leader, addressing student needs and the unique challenges faced by students of color. While still a student, Raul obtained his Oregon real estate license in May 2021, demonstrating his dedication and hard work.
As a real estate agent at eXp Realty LLC, Raul is passionate about helping first-time home buyers overcome barriers to homeownership and educating them on the process, ensuring they can make informed decisions for their future. His professional experience also includes roles as a senior academic mentor, lead event planner, and board member of the United Way of the Mid-Willamette Valley, where he has been involved in reviewing budget proposals and evaluating program reports.
Raul’s commitment to his community extends beyond his professional career. As a member of the Salem-Keizer School District Student Investment Task Force, he played a key role in developing a budget proposal of $35 billion allocated by the Oregon Student Success Plan and assisted in leading multiple community-wide forums.
In his free time, Raul enjoys playing soccer, creating and listening to music, taking walks with Mia, and spending time with family at the park. He has a deep appreciation for his roots, often visiting Oaxaca to soak in its natural beauty, family ties, rich cuisine, and vibrant culture. Raul dreams of one day living there. He is passionate about exploring new foods, visiting new places, and meeting new people.
Raul’s story is one of dedication, community engagement, and advocacy. His journey reflects a deep commitment to giving back to the community that supported him, driven by a desire to ensure that underrepresented voices are heard and empowered. His work has not only impacted his immediate community but has also paved the way for future leaders, especially from minority and immigrant backgrounds.