Grace Cruz – Senior Bilingual Resource Specialist

Grace is the Senior Bilingual Resource Specialist at H.E.A.R.T.S. Connection, bringing decades of lived experience, compassion, and advocacy to the families she serves. Originally from Los Angeles, Grace relocated to Bakersfield in 1993 while raising five children, two of whom have special needs. Her personal journey navigating services and supports led her to H.E.A.R.T.S. Connection in 1997, where she first participated as a parent, volunteer, and support group member.

Grace later spent more than 15 years providing respite services to families of children with special needs before joining H.E.A.R.T.S. Connection as a Family Resource Specialist—where she has now served for over 12 years. Known for her kindness, perseverance, and dedication, Grace is a trusted advocate, colleague, and mentor. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and dreams of one day gardening and traveling in retirement.