Leading with Love: My Story in Foster Care and Community Change

Ashley Hurd

Executive Director

Marin Foster Care Association

Bio:  

Ashley grew up in San Diego and now resides in San Rafael with her husband, their energetic and caring son, as well as a foster baby or toddler when they have a placement. She went to Vanguard University in Orange County, where she majored in Sociology. Ashley has run an event planning company specializing in nonprofit fundraisers where she and her team have raised millions of dollars for worthy causes around the Bay Area for the last 17 years. 

Ashley became a foster parent over 10 years ago and believes she is truly called to support and invest in the foster care system. She is all-in and passionate about changing the trajectory of the lives of foster youth which is why she said yes to leading Marin Foster Care Association as their Executive Director the last 2.5 years. Since Ashley stepped into this role, the agency has quadrupled its annual budget, created a much needed therapy program for foster families and purchased two apartment buildings for transition age foster youth.  

Ashley Hurd will present her Leading with Love story on December 10 for a powerful overview of her journey through foster care, both professionally and personally. She’ll share how love, resilience, and community have shaped her path, and how MFCA is driving meaningful change for vulnerable children and families in Marin County and beyond. This inspiring session highlights the transformative power of compassionate leadership and collective action.