Esperanza “Espie” Free grew up in Norwalk and is a proud product of Norwalk-La Mirada schools. Espie and her husband, Manny, have three children and enjoy spending time with their two grandchildren. She is a cancer survivor: an experience that ignited a passion and dedication to community service. 

Espie attended Cerritos College before transferring to the University of Phoenix, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Health Administration. She later furthered her education by obtaining a Master’s Degree in Public Administration from California State University Dominguez Hills. Currently, Espie is pursuing her second Master’s Degree in Legal Studies from Trinity Law School. 

Today, Espie serves as the Director of Human Resources at a private university. Throughout her career, Espie dedicated herself to working for several non-profit organizations that provide vital services to underserved communities. 

As part of her dedication to service, Espie also actively volunteers as a Chaplain with the Los Angeles County Juvenile Detention facilities, where she mentors young girls. Espie believes in the transformative power of education and advocates for the idea that every child deserves access to excellent educational opportunities.

Espie has also contributed to her community by serving as a Neighborhood Watch commander and as a city commissioner for Parks and Recreation and then for Social Services in the City of Norwalk.