Elizabeth Saldaña
Senior Advisor
Elizabeth Saldaña: Transforming Communities Through Leadership. Elizabeth Saldaña is a dynamic leader renowned for her expertise in project management, team development, and delivering results. She currently holds the position of Senior Advisor, Contracts, a role that reflects her extensive experience and unwavering commitment to making a difference.
Prior to joining NHHA, Elizabeth initially oversaw operations in Los Angeles and Orange County for a Southern California nonprofit, managing recuperative care facilities, shelters, micro-communities, and critical programs. Her impact was swift, as she introduced key performance indicators (KPIs) to enhance the effectiveness of medical and behavioral health teams across Orange County, Los Angeles, and the Inland Empire. Her dedication led to her current role, where she manages diverse areas including information technology, transportation, procurement, culinary services, facility compliance, warehouse operations, infrastructure development, project management, safety, security, and more. Additionally, she leads the organization's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion committee.
Elizabeth's journey in community service began in 2007 when she joined Giving Children Hope (GCH) as the Director of Community Programs. There, she launched a program targeting homeless children in Orange County experiencing food insecurity, which rapidly grew to serve thousands across multiple cities, eventually expanding to Los Angeles and San Diego County. Recognized for her exceptional leadership, she was promoted to Director of Community Development in 2012, where she established valuable relationships with community partners, secured grants, and facilitated growth. Her impactful career continued with the Community Action Partnership of Orange County, where she played a pivotal role in expanding program operations across ten counties. Managing contracts exceeding $14 million, Elizabeth successfully revamped the department's structure and operations, aligning them with strategic goals.
Elizabeth's community contributions have earned her prestigious recognition, including a Coin of Merit from the Police Chiefs of Buena Park and Los Alamitos, as well as the Woman of Heart award from the Buena Park Woman's Club. Outside her professional life, Elizabeth is a devoted wife and mother of three children—Jonathan, Victoria, and Leo. She completed the MDE program at UCLA and holds a Bachelor's in Business Management from the University of Phoenix. Her personal interests include staying active, enjoying the beach with her beloved chocolate labs Chief and "G," and enthusiastically supporting her children's soccer games and track meets. Elizabeth Saldana's exceptional leadership, combined with her deep commitment to serving vulnerable populations, continues to shape communities and organizations positively. Her dedication and compassion inspire those privileged to work alongside her, making her a true catalyst for change.
