The American Red Cross introduced Hector LaFarga Jr. as the new executive director of the Northern Valleys chapter Thursday.

The new director is serving the San Fernando Valley, Antelope Valley, Santa Clarita Valley and adjacent areas of Los Angeles County, according to the Red Cross.

“We are thrilled to welcome Hector LaFarga Jr. into the Red Cross family and L.A.’s largest chapter, where Hector’s expertise will guide a territory faced with an uptick in disasters, including the recent Bobcat and Lake fires,” said Joanne Nowlin, CEO for the Red Cross in Los Angeles. “Hector brings impressive experience and leadership to support community programs to our North Valley chapter.”

LaFarga was born in Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico and was raised in East Los Angeles, graduating from the University of California at Berkeley with a bachelor’s in sociology. Hector and his wife Alicia have four children and two dogs.

Previously, LaFarga was the regional executive director of the West for After-School All-Stars, where he led a multi-state region, working to execute regional strategies related to operations, fund development, staff development and board development. He also worked as the executive director of Families Forward Learning Center, leading the agency’s business operations, strategic planning, fund development, fiscal management, and more.

Additionally, LaFarga was vice president of Programs at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles and regional director at INROADS for the Pacific Southwest.

“My life’s work has brought me to this point and I am eager to continue my nonprofit efforts and serve communities in need,” said LaFarga. “Building volunteer-rich partnerships and being part of dynamic, committed teams is where I can make the most impact.”

Hector’s role includes availability for media interviews, coordinating with community partners and elected officials, fundraising for the North Valley region, recruiting and engaging with volunteers and helping with blood donation and collection goals for the Red Cross.

For more information, click visit the Red Cross website here.

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