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ABOUT VANESSA

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Positive

A positive leader- seeks out win-win solutions for all the people of Redondo, Manhattan and Hermosa Beach. 

Creative

A creative thinker - offers fresh ideas and cooperative solutions.

Compassionate

A compassionate listener - bridges different perspectives to improve outcomes. 

Recognized as “Trustee of the Year” by the Association of California Health District, (https://www.bchd.org/achd-advocate-september-2018-trustee-spotlight-vanessa-poster),

 

To protect us and our neighborhoods, Vanessa…

  • Organized her Neighborhood Watch

  • Founded the Women’s Coalition South Bay

  • Volunteered on the Redondo Beach Green Task Force

  • Served low-income residents at South Bay Free Clinic

 

Focused on community leadership and safety, she participated in: 

  • Fire Department's Community Emergency Response Team

  • Citizen’s Police Awareness Academy

  • Redondo Beach Leadership Class of 2018

 

Professional Background:

  • Executive Coach for nonprofit leaders, entrepreneurs and writers

  • President, VIP Consulting (provides strategic planning and major donor development for health & human service agencies and religious institutions)

  • Former Director of Development: South Bay Free Clinic

  • Published poet and writer, teaching writing since 2017

 

Vanessa graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Stanford University with a BA in Humanities, with Honors and Distinction and an M.A. in Modern Thought and Literature, with Distinction.

“Vanessa really walks the talk. Healthy living is a top priority for her at all times. I often see her at BCHD events, Zumba, yoga, or meditation as well as community meetings. Her involvement on the ground really gives her the community perspective we need on the Board of Directors.“

– Mickey Marraffino, Resident, Volunteer and Entrepreneur 

“The BCHD is one of the most efficient and effective organizations.  They are a model for how every public agency should function.  Because of BCHD, the Beach Cities are one of the best places in California to successfully age.”

– Mark Burton, Candidate Manhattan Beach City Council

“Vanessa is both an idea person as well as a visionary who can make things happen.”

–John Rubiner, Vanessa's husband 

“Vanessa is the experienced hand on the BCHD board, bringing a tremendous historical perspective combined with thoughtful decision-making. Her heart is focused on the well-being of our community and staff and she makes our Board approachable with her personable style. She is deeply connected to community needs, evidenced by her numerous endorsements from community leaders. I strongly endorse Vanessa for re-election to the BCHD Board."

Vish Chatterji, Board Member, Beach Cities Health District

"Author: The Business Casual Yogi"

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