Juan Hernandez moves on from La Luz

After eight years, Juan Hernandez is stepping down as executive director of La Luz Center.

“La Luz has a strong team and leadership, and this was an ideal time for me to focus on my new career of economic development for Latino businesses,” Hernandez said. “I take with me the friendships built and the lessons learned that will last a lifetime. I leave in place an incredible team that has lifted me up on this journey. I trust that the support and love that you have shown me will now be reflected on them.”

La Luz Director of Finance and Administration, Sutapa Balaji, will manage the office until a new Executive Director is selected. She can be reached at (707) 938-5131 Ext. 115 or [email protected].

The organization has retained the Center for Volunteer & Nonprofit Leadership to assist in recruiting a new executive director who is “an experienced, bilingual, passionate individual who will help our Sonoma Valley community thrive.” To view the job description, visit the CVNL.org website

Board Chair Kimberly Blattner said La Luz said the nonprofit’ has nearly doubled the number of individuals it has helped through the Covid pandemic. “To our donors, and stakeholders, we can’t thank you enough for your generosity,” she said. “We value the trust you have placed in La Luz as a beacon of hope in our beloved Sonoma Valley. In a world of uncertainty and transformation, we are so very grateful to have you as our partner.”