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A Note From Jenny: Rest Is Power
After 12 years of leading UpValley Family Centers, I have been given the opportunity to take a sabbatical from July 1 through September 30 thanks to the generous support of the Latino Community Foundation's Rest Is Power Initiative.
The Rest Is Power Initiative recognizes that sustainable leadership requires time to rest, reflect, and renew. The program invests not only in executive leaders, but also in the organizations and leadership teams who continue advancing the mission while leaders are away. I am deeply grateful to the Latino Community Foundation for making this opportunity possible.
One of the greatest privileges of my role is serving this incredible community alongside such a dedicated team. While I am away, I have complete confidence in our outstanding leadership team. Indira Lopez-Jones will serve as Acting Executive Director, supported by our experienced directors and staff who work every day to ensure our community continues receiving the high-quality programs and services they depend on. Our work will continue without interruption, and I know the organization is in excellent hands.
If you need assistance during my sabbatical, please contact:
- Indira Lopez-Jones, Acting Executive Director and Director of Community Engagement, Immigration, and Education Programs, for organizational matters and community partnerships.
- Lupe Maldonado, Program Director, for Family & Senior Wellness Services and Economic Success Programs.
- Norma Ferriz, Finance & Operations Director, for billing, invoices, and finance-related questions.
- Cambria Kirby, Development Director, for fundraising, communications, and donor relations.
Thank you for your continued support of UpValley Family Centers and the families we serve. I look forward to returning this fall with renewed energy and perspective to continue this important work together.
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Summer Adventures with Niños Activos Summer is off to a wonderful start for the children and families participating in our Niños Activos (Active Children) Playgroups. Through hands-on activities, field trips, and time together, children learn through exploration and build early learning skills, while caregivers develop connections, access resources, and gain confidence as the child's first teacher. Our groups recently enjoyed a fun-filled field trip to Old Faithful Geyser in Calistoga, where children watched the famous geyser erupt and fed goats, sheep, and llamas. These outings encourage curiosity, development, and social interaction while introducing children to the world around them. Meanwhile, our St. Helena Children's Garden is flourishing thanks to the ongoing support of St. Helena Farmers' Market Educator Katie Davis. As the children eagerly await their first harvest of tomatoes, cucumbers, flowers, and more, they're also learning valuable lessons about healthy eating, responsibility, patience, and caring for the world around them. On the first Friday of every month, the group visits the St. Helena Farmers' Market for hands-on activities and bilingual storytime. Join us this Friday, July 3, at 9:30 AM in the Market Classroom Tent! We're also excited to begin a new children's garden in Calistoga, thanks to the generous support of Calistoga Rotary, The Rockridge Foundation, Napa Valley Lodge No. 93 F. & A.M. of California, and individual donors. This new space will provide even more opportunities for children and families to learn, grow, and connect through nature. Together, we're helping children build confidence, curiosity, and a strong foundation for lifelong learning. |
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Calistoga Wine Festival Raise a glass for a great cause on Saturday, August 15, at the inaugural Calistoga Wine Festival at the Brannan Center. Hosted by the Calistoga Wine Society, this unique event celebrates the exceptional wines, wineries, and hospitality of northern Napa Valley. Best of all, 10% of all proceeds will benefit UpValley Family Centers. Tickets are $85 and are available at calistogawinefestival.com. The festival is also seeking volunteers to assist with guest check-in, food and wine service, the silent auction, and event support. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact the event organizer, Len Tolstunov, at [email protected] for more information. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, community supporter, or simply looking for a fun way to give back, we hope you'll join us for an unforgettable day celebrating Calistoga wine while supporting the work of UpValley Family Centers! |
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