Hope through Housing is proud to welcome Heather Parsons as our new Vice President of Philanthropy. With more than two decades of fundraising experience, Heather brings both expertise and heart to advancing our mission. Heather’s connection to Hope through Housing began years ago as a volunteer in our children’s after-school programs – one of the four pillars supporting residents in our communities. That early experience left a lasting impression and sparked her belief in the transformative power of housing and supportive services.
“I’m a true believer in the power of the Hope through Housing mission,” Heather shares. “I’ve seen firsthand how even in the quietest moments our commitment can give someone confidence and hope for new possibilities that weren’t there before.”
Heather has since built an impressive career leading fundraising operations, expanding student scholarships and strengthening community partnerships. She most recently served as director of the Chaffey College Foundation, where she oversaw fundraising operations, expanded student scholarship programs and strengthened alumni and community engagement. She played a key role in the passage of Measure P in 2018 – a $700 million bond that expanded the college’s facilities for future generations. She also held advancement roles at the University of La Verne and Cal Poly Pomona and has served in leadership positions with local nonprofits and chambers of commerce.
In her new role at Hope through Housing, Heather will spearhead efforts to expand donor engagement, build stronger partnerships and accelerate the foundation’s impact on a national scale.
A lifelong Inland Empire resident, Heather holds a Bachelor of Science in organizational management and a Master of Science in leadership and management from the University of La Verne. She lives in Chino with her husband, Mark, and daughter, Samantha.
“We’re thrilled to have Heather on board as Hope through Housing continues its incredible expansion,” Executive Director Alyssa Cotter said. “Her experience, dedication and deep connection to our mission will be invaluable as we grow our programs and bring hope and opportunity to families, seniors, and communities across the country.”