Liz Heckles is no stranger to solving problems. With a professional background as a consultant and an agricultural compliance coordinator, she regularly puts together many puzzle pieces to meet a common goal. “I have a passion for bringing resources together in tangible ways.”
Shortly after moving to the area, Liz attended a Yolo County CASA event at Park Winters. At this event, Executive Director Tracy Fauver gave a passionate talk about Yolo County CASA’s mission and impact on foster children. “I was moved by the critical relationship Yolo County CASA provides for foster children. To me, it’s the glue that holds everything together for these kids.”
Volunteering is in Liz’s blood. She grew up witnessing her mother lead a breakfast program in Pennsylvania and often went along to help support the cause. “I learned through these early experiences that a small amount of volunteer time has the potential to contribute to stability for many people. When she met and talked to Yolo County Board Member Moyra Barsotti at the CASA event, everything just clicked. “My personal passion for volunteering and my professional inclination for problem solving all came together. I knew that I wanted to make an impact for Yolo County CASA through board service when my children became a bit older.”
In 2016, Liz joined the board of Yolo County CASA and now serves as its vice president. “Yolo County CASA is a working board by all definitions. I like that there is always an opportunity to jump in and work on a task to further the mission. I’ve never seen a volunteer board filled with so many actively hard-working people.”
With a full-time job and two children at home, Liz makes it all work by letting CASA’s mission inspire her to stretch her time. “Sure I am busy, but I know that my time is well spent on Yolo County CASA’s board. Foster kids are embedded in so many services. In a way, they begin to learn the agenda for each, and bring that part of themselves to the table. A CASA is a CASA for anything and everyone in a foster child’s life. I feel it’s the biggest discriminator among all the pieces of their services.”
Liz also feels passionately about supporting Yolo County CASA financially. “We run on a tight budget and I see first-hand the many objectives that every dollar in our budget achieves for foster children. I cannot think of a more important cause to support.” In fact, when her kids are even older, Liz wants to become a CASA volunteer. “As you can see, I think this organization and its services are critical to children in need. It truly transforms foster children’s lives and I am honored to be a part of it.”
Thank you, Liz, we are fortunate to have you on our team.
