May 18, 2026
Announcing Our New Associate Executive Director, Ashlei Hurst
We are thrilled to announce that Ashlei Hurst has joined Friends of the Children-SF Bay Area as our Associate Executive Director.
Ashlei is a passionate community leader who believes deeply in the power of relationships to change lives. As Associate Executive Director at Friends of the Children–SF Bay Area, she is excited to support young people in building bright futures through consistent, caring mentorship.
"Ashlei's appointment marks a pivotal step for our chapter," said Susan Corlett, Executive Director of Friends of the Children–SF Bay Area.
She joins us from Mercy Housing California, where she spent 13 years and most recently served as Regional Vice President of Community Life, leading the Hope SF initiative in Sunnydale, San Francisco. She oversaw resident services across seven communities and directed The Hub and the Sunnydale Resource Center, delivering programs and opportunities that reached thousands of families each year.
She brings exceptional strength in strategy, program development and implementation, team leadership, and organizational management, with a strong track record of turning vision into results in mission-driven environments.
"What drew me to Friends of the Children is the commitment to showing up for young people for 12+ years, no matter what," said Hurst. "I know firsthand how much a mentor can shape a life. I'm grateful to be part of this community and excited to partner with our families to support youth as they pursue their dreams."
Starting on May 18th, we are excited that Ashlei will lead program, partner closely with the Bayview and Sunnydale communities, and support fundraising.
As we celebrate our 10th Anniversary, I am excited to welcome Ashlei to our team, and I am truly energized by what her partnership will make possible for Friends of the Children-SF Bay Area in the years ahead.