Christa and her husband Tom Heflin moved to El Dorado County in 1977 and founded Rainbow Orchards in Apple Hill. When asked why they chose our area, she explained, “we wanted to raise our children in an area away from the hustle and bustle of the city. A place where nature reigned and farming was possible. Now with our three sons and grandchildren, we have three generations working the land. We use our skills and resources to grow nutritious food and preserve open space to support the health, education, and welfare in our community.”
Christa is firmly committed to the growth of a healthy El Dorado County, and it shows. She has volunteered her time to the Board of Trustees for Marshall Foundation for Community Health since 2016, holding positions on the sustainability and strategic planning committees, Vice President in 2021, and currently serves as President of the Board.
Volunteers give their precious time to others, but why Marshall Foundation for Community Health? “I know that a healthy community is a strong community. Marshall Foundation for Community Health is a catalyst for a healthy El Dorado County, and I want to support their philanthropic efforts. As the saying goes, ‘If you have your health, you have everything,’” Christa continued. “If we have our physical, mental, and emotional health as a community, we are a stronger county. Marshall Foundation for Community Health has supported Marshall Medical Center and other community nonprofits since 1977. Our residents need Marshall Hospital and its clinics, and Marshall Hospital needs us. For over 60 years, Marshall has provided quality care for our residents. Where would we be without the assurance that if we are ill, we can depend on Marshall and its staff?”
Last year the foundation provided over $630,000 to health-related needs for the western slope of our county, including almost $600,000 to Marshall. That wouldn’t be possible without the dedicated volunteer board and philanthropic-minded residents and businesses.
Christa is a volunteer powerhouse and local leader, serving other nonprofits in the area including Mother Lode Rehabilitation Enterprises Inc. (MORE), El Dorado County Chamber of Commerce, El Dorado County Farm Trails Association, Apple Hill Growers Association, Camino Community Action Committee, California Retired Teachers Association Division 73, El Dorado Ag in the Classroom, Images of Hope El Dorado, Pollock Pines-Camino Rotary Club, and Hands4Hope Placerville Center.
If you would like to learn more about how YOU can contribute to the health of our community, visit marshallfound.org, or speak to us directly by calling (530) 642-9984.