Building a successful fund begins with a strong foundation of guidance and stewardship. That’s why we assembled a powerhouse rural advisory council, deeply connected to the communities this Fund serves. Together, we’re committed to making impactful investments that truly resonate with the people they benefit.
About The Rural Community Health Fund
The Rural Community Health Fund (RCHF) invests in the people and places of rural South central Texas. The ultimate goal is to uplift vulnerable and marginalized rural communities and create conditions where all residents can thrive and achieve wellness.
This fund is steered by a desire and commitment to collectively address the enduring impacts of trauma resulting from historic and systemic factors that limit access to opportunities based on identity and location. The fund supports those facing significant barriers to health and well-being.
Rural Community Health Fund Advisory Council Members
Pastor Fritz Williams - Caldwell County
Pastor Fritz is a Lockhart native and pastor with over 14 years of ministry experience and a background in higher education. He is deeply engaged in addressing food insecurity, housing challenges for seniors, and support for vulnerable mothers and children.
Fritz brings both pastoral leadership and academic insight, along with a strong commitment to representing Caldwell County in rural health investment conversations.
Pastor Bernie Jackson - Bastrop County
Pastor Bernie D. Jackson serves as Deputy Executive Director of the Family Crisis Center and previously served as Interim Executive Director in 2025. Since joining the organization in 2004 as Volunteer Coordinator, she has held multiple leadership roles, bringing more than 20 years of nonprofit experience focused on volunteer engagement, community partnerships, donor development, and fundraising. Over the past eight years, she has overseen the Family Crisis Center’s thrift store operations, leading significant growth in sales and donations while strengthening staff recruitment, retention, and compensation.
In addition to his nonprofit leadership, Bernie is the founding Senior Pastor of Trinity Zion Ministries in Bastrop, Texas, where she has served for 25 years, focusing on supporting families and youth. She has also served on several local boards, including CCA Head Start, the Bastrop Chamber of Commerce, the founding board of the Boys & Girls Club in Bastrop, and currently the City of Bastrop Ethics Commission.
Bernie is deeply committed to service, ethical leadership, and improving the lives of vulnerable individuals and families.
Eufemia Rivera - Hays County
Eufemia resides in Kyle and brings over 20 years of nonprofit experience along with leadership in arts, culture, and recreation. She has supported individuals experiencing homelessness, mental health challenges, and substance use recovery.
Currently working with the City of Austin’s Arts, Music, Culture, and Entertainment division, she is known for building collaborative teams and creating safe spaces for shared decision-making. Eufemia is deeply committed to connecting families with resources and strengthening community wellbeing across Hays County.
YaLecia LeFlore-Love - At-Large Seat
YaLecia Love is an Austin native with five generations of family roots in Elgin, where she and her husband chose to raise their two sons and continue a legacy grounded in faith, service, and community.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology (Pre-Counseling) and is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, while also serving as a Community Doula advocating for equitable maternal health outcomes and mental wellness.
An elected official, she represents Ward 2 on the Elgin City Council and serves as Deputy Mayor Pro-Tem, where she champions initiatives that strengthen the entire city and encourages active civic engagement. YaLecia also serves with the Elgin Juneteenth Organization and Elgin Cares, chairs the Hogeye Children’s Parade, sits on the Board of Directors for The Pfaith House supporting women and children in transition, and contributes to the Bastrop County Health Task Force helping establish the county’s first Public Health Department.
She remains committed to authentic service and legacy-driven leadership that ensures Elgin is a safe, thriving place to live, work, and play.
Verónica Serrano - Williamson County
A dedicated mental health professional with expertise in trauma-informed care, early intervention, and community health advocacy. With a Master of Social Work from Our Lady of the Lake University and a strong background in child development and family support, Verónica has worked extensively with underserved populations, immigrant families, and individuals facing barriers to care. As a bilingual Spanish speaker, Verónica is committed to fostering inclusive, culturally responsive environments that promote equitable access to healthcare and social services.
Currently serving as a Community Health Worker with Community Health Connect–United Way for Greater Austin and STARRY, Verónica provides advocacy, education, and resources to support pregnant and postpartum women, immigrant communities, and other vulnerable populations. Her experience spans developmental screenings, special education support, case management, and relationship-building with diverse communities to improve health outcomes.
We Look Forward to Your Leadership
This remarkable advisory council, each member with their unique expertise and dedication, is shaping the RCHF’s vision of a more equitable, healthy rural South Central Texas. Together, they embody the foundation’s commitment to empowering communities, building leadership, and fostering resilience in rural areas.