HEATHER Cruz-Holley
Daughter, Sister, Friend, Ally
Likes: Iced Coffee, brunch, hockey, books, candles, Target, fuzzy blankets Dislikes: Being late, bad weather, cluttered spaces, seafood Heather was born and raised in the Cleveland area. After graduating high school, Heather became a first generation college student and attended Kent State University. At Kent State, Heather started her college career as an Early Education Major. While she was in that major, Heather took a college writing class where she was asked to write a paper on a current issue happening in the world. The topic she chose was issues in the foster care system -- and that paper changed everything for her. Heather grew up living with her grandparents and having a very strong support system to help her navigate all the good and the bad life has to offer. While doing research for her paper, she read countless stories of kids who did not grow up with a strong support system, kids who grew up without their family, and kids who grew up not feeling loved. After completing that paper, Heather decided that she wanted to switch her major to Human Development and Family Studies with a concentration in Child and Youth Development. In this major, Heather knew she could obtain a career working with children and families on a deeper level, specifically foster parents and kids in care. Heather graduated Kent State University in August of 2020 with a Bachelor of Science degree. Heather connected with Cleveland Angels during her senior year when she became a Case Management intern during the summer of 2020. Once Heather graduated and completed her internship, she stayed on part-time as a Case Manager. Eventually, Cleveland Angels was able to offer Heather a full time case management position, and she accepted! Heather is so grateful to be a part of an amazing team with even more of an amazing mission. She feels truly blessed to be in a position to shine a light on foster care and have conversations and raise awareness! Her favorite part of the job is getting to talk with all of the amazing Foster parents and helping them feel empowered and supported. |