hellena ruiz

I manage citywide interpretation, translation, and equipment-rental services for the Office of Civic Engagement and Immigrant Affairs in San Francisco. I oversee the Language Access Unit, supervise four staff members, advise city departments, and strengthen language-access compliance through training, tools, and reporting.

I've led efforts to standardize citywide language glossaries, analyze language-services trends, and examine policies and protocols affecting language access and immigrant integration. I also provide interpretation and translation services when needed.

Previously, at Local Initiatives Support Corporation, I managed grants, technical assistance, fundraising support, communications, and economic-development initiatives. At Impact Justice, I operated the California Justice Leaders AmeriCorps program, managed the Apricot database, and supported compliance for a 42-member team.

My work has consistently centered communities of color, immigrant communities, and survivors of violence through leadership roles at Latinx Parenting, Bay Area Women Against Rape, and Ruby's Place. I'm fluent in Spanish and bring a healing-centered, culturally responsive approach to community partnerships and public service.