​​EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Kristin Fay Venus, Eugene

​Kristin Fay Venus serves as the Executive Director of the Blanche Fischer Foundation, where she brings visionary leadership and a steadfast commitment to its mission of empowering Oregonians with permanent physical disabilities.

When Kristin Fay stepped into the organization in 2023, the Foundation was facing significant challenges that jeopardized its stability and mission. Over the past year, she has led an extensive overhaul to reestablish the Foundation’s purpose, strengthen its operations, and set it on a path toward sustainability. Her efforts have included updating fiscal practices, streamlining grantmaking guidelines, and introducing strategic initiatives that honor the Foundation’s legacy while addressing the evolving needs of the communities it serves.

Kristin Fay is a champion for those who advocate for themselves, enabling them to become engaged contributors to their communities and the world. With extensive experience in nonprofit and business management, strategic planning, and community engagement, she has demonstrated exceptional skill navigating the complex challenges, building collaborative partnerships, and driving innovative solutions.
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Under her leadership, the Blanche Fischer Foundation is now poised to expand its impact and continue its critical work of fostering dignity, independence, and empowerment for individuals with disabilities across Oregon.
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Outside of her professional role, she finds joy in exploring Oregon’s natural beauty, baking, playing music, and spending meaningful time with her family.

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BOARD PRESIDENT - Kelsey Heinonen

Kelsey Heinonen has been a dedicated member of the Blanche Fischer Foundation Board since 2024. With over 13 years of experience as an independent contractor and horticulture specialist, she brings a wealth of expertise to support the Foundation’s mission.

As Marketing Coordinator at Alvord Taylor, a nonprofit providing care for individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities, Kelsey’s strengths in grant writing, content creation, and problem-solving align seamlessly with the Foundation’s goals. Her skills in business development and fostering relationships grounded in trust and communication further enhance her impact within the organization.

​Outside of her professional endeavors, Kelsey enjoys hiking and volunteering. With a passion for community impact and an unwavering commitment to advancing the Foundation’s vision of independence and empowerment, she is dedicated to transforming lives for those served by the Blanche Fischer Foundation

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VICE PRESIDENT & SECRETARY - Kim Davidson-Ruby
Kim Davidson-Ruby serves as Vice President of the Blanche Fischer Foundation, bringing decades of experience in medical social work and a lifelong commitment to service. Recognized as Medical Social Worker of the Year by the Oregon Association for Home Care in 2013, Kim’s career has been defined by her dedication to improving the lives of patients and their families. 

Now retired, Kim spent much of her career with PeaceHealth Sacred Heart Medical Center’s Home Health team, where she worked alongside multidisciplinary teams to provide compassionate, comprehensive care. Her expertise and leadership in social work continue to guide her contributions to the Foundation, helping to foster independence and improve the quality of life for Oregonians with disabilities.
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In her role with the Blanche Fischer Foundation, Kim leverages her wealth of experience to support the Foundation’s mission and strategic goals. Her passion for empowering individuals and creating meaningful change ensures that her impact endures in both her professional legacy and her ongoing work with the Foundation.

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TREASURER - Kelly Chesla
Kelly has been a member of the Blanche Fischer Foundation Board since 2024. With a professional background in accounting, Kelly brings valuable knowledge to the Foundation’s mission of supporting Oregonians with permanent physical disabilities.

Currently, Kelly is a self-employed bookkeeper and payroll specialist who provides small businesses support with maintaining financial records and establishing financial awareness. Passionate about building sustainable financial growth within the Blanche Fischer Foundation, Kelly contributes to the Foundation by providing financial oversight and ensuring compliance and alignment with the foundation's strategic goals. 

Outside of her work with the Foundation, Kelly enjoys mountain bike riding and gardening. Kelly is committed to making a meaningful impact through her work with the Blanche Fischer Foundation and advancing the vision of independence and empowerment.

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