LaBruce stepping down as La Luz Center director

Ellen LaBruce, longtime executive director of La Luz Center, will be leaving the nonprofit organization in January.
“It has been my honor and privilege to serve as the director of an agency dedicated to helping immigrants succeed in Sonoma Valley,” said LaBruce. “I have had the pleasure of working with the most dedicated and capable staff, volunteers and board members one could hope for.”
Reflecting on the nine years she has served as executive director, LaBruce said, “We have come a long way, thanks to the vision of founder Ligia Booker, from the first storefront on Highway 12 to responding to the needs of over 1,000 families in 2008. As La Luz approaches its 20th year, it is again time for a change, for new energy to take La Luz to the next level.”
LaBruce will be joining the staff of the Napa Valley Community Foundation as Manager of Philanthropic Services. “This position will allow me to continue working with nonprofits as a liaison between the people who work so hard to make our communities a better place for all and the donors who support and partner with them in their efforts,” she said.
“I would like to say on behalf of all of the staff, volunteers and board members of La Luz how sorry we are to see our Executive Director Ellen La Bruce leave us,” said Stephen Dale, President of the Board of Directors. “On the other hand, we are very happy for Ellen as she moves on and realizes her dream, taking on another challenge with the Napa Valley Community Foundation.
“I’m sure that Ellen will help lead her new organization to new heights the same way she led La Luz for the last nine years with honor and dignity. She has continued to carry on the dream of Lee Booker, the founder of La Luz almost 20 years ago,” said Dale. “Ellen has worked so hard in helping to bridge the gap of bringing people of different cultures closer together, and in better understanding one another and making Sonoma Valley a very special place for all people.”
In preparing for departure, LaBruce said, “I leave behind many friends and colleagues at La Luz and will remain one of its most enthusiastic supporters. As a long time Sonoma Valley resident, I look forward to following the Center’s progress as it continues to help our community come together.”
For more information about La Luz Center and its programs, please call 707.938.5131. La Luz is at 17650 Greger St., Boyes Hot Springs; www.laluzcenter.org.