Meet our Team!

Empowering Families - One Connection at a Time

A team working together to provide support services for families with children with special needs and disabilities in Bakersfield, Kern County, Inyo, and Mono Counties

Our Advocates & Specialists

Every story is unique—and so is our team. With the experience, the hearts, and the expertise, we’re here to help you shape your family’s story and build a brighter future for your children.

Susan’s Bio

Grace’s Bio

SUSAN GRAHAM

Director

Susan_Graham@heartsfrc.org

Leigh Anne’s Bio

Timaree’s Bio

LEIGH ANNE JOHNSON

Program Coordinator

Leigh_Johnson@heartsfrc.org

TIMAREE TORRES

Family Resource Specialist*

Timaree_Torres@heartsfrc.org

*Tehachapi Location

Karina’s Bio

At H.E.A.R.T.S, our priority is

CONNECTION!

As a team, we are with you—and for you.

KARINA VELA

Family Resource Specialist

Karina_Vela@heartsfrc.org

*Bilingual

Laly’s Bio

LALY TENORIO

Family Resource Specialist

Laly_Tenorio@heartsfrc.org

*Bilingual

Lily’s Bio

Laura’s Bio

LAURA NACHOR

Family Resource Specialist

Laura_Nachor@heartsfrc.org

*Bilingual

LILY BROOKS

Family Resource Specialist

Lily_Brooks@heartsfrc.org

GRACE CRUZ

Senior Resource Specialist*

Grace_Cruz@heartsfrc.org

*Bilingual

Meet our Board

More than half of our board members are parents of children or adults with disabilities.

These real-life experiences shape our decisions, our priorities, and our commitment to the families we serve.

  • Matthew Gjerde

    OWNER

    Geek at the Ready

  • Ana Gomez

    PARENT, FAMILY ADVOCATE
    Richardson Special Needs Collaborative

  • Brinn Little

    PARENT
    Owner of the Virginia Creek Settlement

  • Lee Knotts

    PARENT, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
    Kern County Consortium SELPA

  • Carina Burciaga

    PARENT, FAMILY ADVOCATE

  • Christine Francis

    PARENT, ADVOCATE

  • Stefan Waggoner

    PARENT, OWNER Waggoner Financial

  • Shawn Kennemer

    ADVOCATE, PRESIDENT/CEO Bakersfield ARC