PASADENA, CA – Friends of Foothill Family kicked off its 2026–2027 year, welcoming new President Nellie Duran and celebrating another year of bringing people together in support of Foothill Family’s mission and the children and families it serves.
Duran succeeds Past President Stefani Freeburg, whose leadership helped usher in a new chapter for the Friends. During her tenure, the group expanded its membership to welcome men for the first time and inviting the whole family to volunteer more intentionally, creating new opportunities for people across the community to get involved and give back.
“Stefani helped the Friends grow in a way that reflects what community is all about, bringing more people to the table who want to make a difference,” said Duran. “I’m excited to build on what she started and continue finding new ways for people to be part of Foothill Family’s work in our community.”
Among the Friends’ priorities for the year is Making Seasons Brighter, its annual holiday initiative supporting Foothill Family families. Through its annual toy drive and community support, Friends members help bring holiday joy to children and families while easing some of the financial pressures the season can bring.
This year will also mark the launch of Junior Friends of Foothill Family, a new initiative designed to introduce young people to philanthropy, volunteerism and community service. Through hands-on opportunities to give back, Junior Friends will help inspire a new generation to discover the impact they can have in their communities.
“Foothill Family has always been strengthened by people who believe in the power of families and communities,” said Steve Allen, Chief Executive Officer of Foothill Family. “The Friends turn that belief into action. As the group continues to grow and now engages young people through Junior Friends, they’re helping build a tradition of service and generosity that can carry forward for generations.”
Freeburg reflected on her time as President and the future of the group.
“It has been incredibly rewarding to see the Friends grow and welcome more people who share a desire to give back,” said Freeburg. “I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together and excited to see where Nellie takes the group next. I know the Friends are in great hands and have so much to look forward to.”
For more than 25 years, Friends of Foothill Family has supported Foothill Family through fundraising, volunteerism, advocacy and community engagement. Under Duran’s leadership, the group will continue that tradition while supporting children and families throughout the San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys and Greater Los Angeles.
About Foothill Family
Celebrating 100 years, Foothill Family works to create healthier families and stronger communities across Southern California. This community-based nonprofit supports children and families through prevention, intervention, and treatment services through four core areas: mental health, early childhood development, school-based services, and youth and family services. These services are delivered at Foothill Family Centers, in homes, schools, and community settings, all to improve emotional well-being and build stability so that children, adults, caregivers, and families thrive.
Foothill Family was named a 2026 Top Workplace, holds accreditation from COA, has earned Candid’s highest level of recognition with a Platinum Seal of Transparency, and is a 4-Star Charity Navigator nonprofit. Visit www.foothillfamily.org. Foothill Family is a registered 501(c)3 – Tax ID: #95-1690990
About the Friends of Foothill Family
The Friends of Foothill Family was founded in 2000 by civic leaders Lori Winters Samuels and Shannon Seiter Williamson. The Friends of Foothill Family have raised more than $5 million for Foothill Family since the groups’ inception through participating in the agency’s back-to-school activities in the spring and summer, the Annual Gala and Auction, the community outreach and fall friend-raising events, and the holiday programming in the winter. Social gatherings, hands-on volunteer opportunities, and mission-driven conversations are held throughout the year to bring like-minded members together.
The group is led by a volunteer leadership Board. Membership is open year-round; all are welcome to join. For more information about the Friends of Foothill Family, please contact the Friends at (626) 993-3636 or friends@foothillfamily.org.
Media Contact: Patti Johnson news@foothillfamily.org
Friends of Foothill Family
2026-2028 Friends Board- Alexandra Wu, Antonella Nistorescu, Stefani Freeburg, Nellie Duran, Pilar Arellano, Vilma Livas, Peony Cai