Heather Tufts

As sixth generation growing up in Surprise Valley, my family is deeply rooted in the loving community. Where safety, comfort and the freedom can appear to be so precious these days. Growing up I played in the creeks, rode bikes all day exploring town, camped, fished, helped on our family ranch, worked in my grandmother’s grocery store, played many sports and bonded with my class of 15. It wasn’t until I left for college that I realized the special uniqueness rural communities have to offer!

After graduating college and traveling I moved back home to Surprise Valley for about 8 years. During that time I worked for a non-profit as the Director for Afterschool and Resource and Referral Programs. During these 8 years I also acquired my Masters in Educational Leadership (remotely), Co-lead the establishment of the Surprise Valley Child Development Center, coached High School Basketball, and helped start the Surprise Valley Education Foundation.

These experiences built and intensified my passion and desire to ensure children and families are successful in life. My passion and drive took me to San Francisco in 2013 where I began working for the City of San Francisco as a Senior Community Development Specialist; managing grants, planning city-wide for Afterschool and Summer Youth Programs, and facilitating Racial Equity conversations for departmental changes. These Rural and Urban experiences bring together the possibilities of how Non-profit’s, City Government, K-12 Education, private and public funding sources can systematically work together to provide a positive impact on children and their families in rural communities.