In 2020, supporting local business is more important than ever. With the pandemic creating challenges they couldn’t have imagined, our local businesses need all the help they can get. Below, we celebrate some of the best of Marin and Bay Area’s local businesses.
Marin’s Small Business Owners Share Their Struggle to Cope With the Latest Pandemic Shutdown
The sign posted on the front door of Maguire’s Irish Pub in Petaluma pretty much says it all: “We Don’t Know What the Hell We’re Gonna Do.”
It’s a sentiment shared by many Marin business owners, as well as those across the Bay Area. With the third shut down enacted on December 8 by Marin County officials, which preemptively and voluntarily adopted the state of California’s mandate ahead of schedule, it’s the last straw for many business owners who say they simply cannot endure any more.
Faces of Dental Health, Beauty and Wellness: Dr. Frances Yankie, D.D.S.
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Kelly Haechler, RDH, Vanessa Arellano, Reception, Rosa Macias, RDA, Frances H. Yankie, DDS, Felicia Martinez, Office Coordinator, Anne Charles, RDH, Anaiza Monteiro, RDA
Welcome to the practice! We are proud of our boutique dental establishment in one of the oldest Victorian buildings, surrounded by redwoods, in the heart of downtown Mill Valley. With our cozy candles, chandeliers, fountain, classical music, aromas of soothing, anti-mircrobial essential oils… a unique spa-like Marin experience. All the while surrounded by top-notch, state of the art dental technology.
It has taken Dr. Yankie, hundreds of hours of study to incorporate the latest, and most conservative methods of sustaining her prime directive, which is taking care of her patients by healing and preserving. Dr. Yankie is on her third-generation cad cam lab, Cerec, to produce same-day, conservative crowns, onlays and veneers. She uses an iTero scanner for digital impressions for Invisalign, retainers, and night guards.
Since 2007, Dr. Yankie has been passionate about providing Invisalign to her patients. This has earned her an Invisalign Gold Plus designation. In addition, she is the President of a team of 38 AACA Dentists, and sits on the Board of the American Academy of Clear Aligners (AACA). Dr. Yankie just added the most advanced dental laser available, the Fotona LightWalkerTM, to her practice. It treats gum disease and can even remove decay without numbing. With her laser, she can desensitize teeth, relieve facial pain, help eliminate snoring, improve sleep apnea, naturally plump lips and stimulate collagen improving facial esthetics. The laser is extremely effective at treating sensitive teeth and facial pain.
This laser is a great addition to other services that she offers à la carte, such as: Bleaching, B-12, Botox for masseters and, (per your request!) more esthetic zones soon! Dr. Yankie focuses on individualized, advanced patient care in a relaxing environment. Her entire career she has focused on enhancing her patients’ health and wellness. Coupling genuine caring with state-of-the-art equipment and procedures, she continues to benefit everyone touched by her practice.
239 Miller Ave, Mill Valley, CA
415.383.0824
Wanna Get Away? Fortunately, Local Bookstores are Serving up a Dose of Escapism
It’s summer, and we’re four months into a shelter-in-place existence that’s showing no signs of abating any time soon. Old calendar notifications and iPhone photo memories create easy mental pitfalls that go something like, “I should be boarding a plane to Japan in 30 minutes,” or, “This time last year I was on a beach in Spain.” Given that a US passport is only valid in a couple dozen places around the world at the moment, those kinds of trips are the things of dreams right now. Luckily, you can still venture out without getting off the couch in your mind.
We checked in with Luisa Smith, buyer at Book Passage, for her top literary picks to help transport you into a different world. Read more.
Faces of Designer Flooring: Debbie, Kate and Nicole, Architectural Design Carpets
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Debbie, Kate and Nicole, Architectural Design Carpets
Debbie Duering, owner of Architectural Design Carpets, has been a leader in the Bay Area flooring industry since 1990. Kate Googins, ADC’s COO, has been with the company for over 15 years; Kate is a passionate team player but also a natural problem solver. Debbie and Kate work hand-in-hand with the Bay Area’s top interior designers, architects, and realtors on residential and commercial properties. These women keep up-to-date with the industry’s top flooring trends ranging from carpet and hardwood to custom rugs and commercial flooring. Using a woman’s ingenuity Debbie, Kate, and Nicole, constantly thinks outside the box and their attention to detail is not only a level of standard at Architectural Design Carpets but part of their creative nature.
When it comes to investing in flooring for any project, no matter how big or small, the foundation of your home starts with Architectural Design Carpets.
1111 Francisco Blvd East, Suite 3, San Rafael, CA
415.458.1717
Shop Local This Holiday Season: Where to Buy Toys in Marin and the Bay Area
If the pandemic has benefited anything, it’s the behemoth known as Amazon, whose stock is currently trading at around $3,163 per share. They are taking a big bite out of the mom and pop shops who are struggling to survive. That’s why it’s important we remember to support the little guys this holiday season.
There are plenty of wonderful, independently owned businesses offering goodies that will make your kids scream in glee this holiday. Let’s support them this year — and frankly, every year. Because small business makes the world go ‘round. Read more.
Faces of Payroll Workforce Solutions: Leslie Ruhland, Accuchex Payroll & Insurance Services
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Leslie Ruhland, Accuchex Payroll & Insurance Services
Payroll plays a critical role for every business. Since 1990, Accuchex has been privileged with the responsibility of paying people correctly, and on-time, every pay cycle. Leslie Ruhland is a Marin County native and is the EVP of Accuchex Corp. Headquartered in Novato for 30 years, Accuchex is the largest independent payroll company in the Bay Area. “One of my favorite things”, says Ruhland, “about working with companies’ payroll is that no matter the size or industry, our friendly and knowledgeable staff adds value, and in doing so, we become part of our clients’ adventure.” Accuchex provides innovative workforce solutions with web-based Time2Pay, blending “Hi-Tech with Hi-Touch.” Accuchex supports employers with one to thousands of employees nationwide. Accuchex appreciates that Payroll remains at the center of our daily lives and the fabric of our communities. During this challenging business environment, we are glad to be a resource to our clients as they navigate the fall out and recovery of Covid 19. Supporting employer clients with the reports and data for PPP loans, remote workforce management and returning employees with worksite safety compliance posters.
365 Bel Marin Keys Blvd, Novato, CA
415.883.7733, ext 110
leslie.ruhland@accuchex.com
Good Morning, San Anselmo!: Staysea Colteaux Supports Fellow Small Businesses in Daily Instagram Posts
They almost always begin like that — they, being the daily Instagram posts Staysea Colteaux, owner of Dogville in San Anselmo, has been sharing since the start of shelter-in-place. So if you’re ever unclear on how long we’ve been in this, check out her @dogvillesananselmo account. As of print time we’re on day 200-something. Following the greeting, which is screamed a la Kimberly Guilfoyle, Colteaux launches into a fervent and often profanity-laced call to action — to come out and support San Anselmo businesses. “I didn’t think I’d be doing this 200 days later,” says Colteaux over the phone. A third generation native of San Anselmo and 13-year business owner, she talks about how even prior to Covid-19 local businesses had been struggling due to the likes of Amazon and other online stores. “They want to put small business out of business,” and she’s fighting like hell to make sure that doesn’t happen.
Faces of Concierge Matchmaking: Cassie Keim, Innovative Match
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Cassie Keim, Innovative Match
Cassie Zampa-Kiem is a renowned dating and relationship strategist, author, speaker and coach. She is the founder and CEO of Innovative Match, a national relationship-services firm.
One of the industry’s leading experts on dating, Cassie has worked with thousands of singles over the past three decades. She’s been named one of the World’s Top Matchmakers (UK Dating), written for and been featured in leading media publications and is the author of the acclaimed “Finding Love After 50.” One of the early pioneers of using online dating with clients, Cassie draws the latest technologies to service clients.
Cassie launched Innovative Match to deliver a 21st century approach for helping clients to realize their relationship goals. Cassie offers a holistic, data-driven roadmap for transforming clients’ dating lives, drawing upon technology expertise, psychological training and work as a dating and life coach as well as a dedicated heart.
Ross, CA
415.259.8714
Black Is Beautiful: Local Breweries Join the National Movement to Brew for Good
After the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Marcus Baskerville, founder and head brewer of Weathered Souls Brewing Company in Austin, TX, wondered what he could do to help.
Enter the “Black is Beautiful” beer collaboration. What started as a single beer recipe has become a collaboration of more than 1,000 breweries across the country to help raise funds for police brutality reform and to increase awareness of the daily injustices faced by the BIPOC population.
Dozens of California breweries have signed on to lend a hand and brew their own version of the Black Is Beautiful stout and to donate 100% of proceeds donated to a deserving nonprofit. Each brewery is encouraged to take the basic recipe and get creative with it, so that each brew showcases one of the many different shades of black and brown that a beer can take.
The Face of Sustainable Investing: Patrick Costello, CFP®, Founder of Green River Sustainable Financial Planning
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Patrick Costello, CFP®, Founder of Green River Sustainable Financial Planning
There is a low-carbon revolution sweeping the world, particularly in energy, transportation, construction and finance. However, many financial firms are slow to offer guidance to their clients about adjusting their investment strategies to benefit from this secular trend. Consequently, investors risk being left behind. Larry Fink, CEO of BlackRock, the world’s largest money manager just wrote: “The evidence on climate risk is compelling investors to reassess core assumptions about modern finance,” and declared his firm would be launching funds that shun fossil-fuel oriented stocks.
Patrick recommends replacing S&P 500 Index tracking funds that have significant exposure to fossil fuel stocks with green, low-carbon funds, and believes failing to do so means leaving money on the table. Green River is a high-touch boutique investment firm accepting clients interested in lowering their portfolio carbon footprint without sacrificing performance. ($1,000,000 account minimum).
321 San Anselmo Avenue, San Anselmo
415.453.6000
PCostello@ProtectedInvestors.com
Also check out our Future of Sustainable Investing webinar featuring Patrick Castello, on how to reduce your carbon footprint while growing your portfolio.
Faces of Trust and Estate Litigation: Epstein + Holtzapple
Experience. Integrity. Solutions. These are what set Epstein + Holtzapple apart.
This highly specialized area of law focuses on conflicts that arise when a loved one dies, or is still alive but is unable to manage their finances. “We meet clients when they are grieving the loss of a loved one and are involved in a lawsuit. Guiding clients who are experiencing such challenges allows us to connect with them on a deeper level, which is incredibly gratifying. Zealously advocating for our clients in court also brings us great joy,” attests Robyn Christo, one of the firm’s attorneys.
With decades of combined experience as trust and estate litigators, the attorneys at Epstein + Holtzapple have built their reputation not only on their deep knowledge and legal skills, but also on their ability to guide clients with empathy through the tumultuous experience of being embroiled in a family conflict. The firm’s approach typically results in the formation of authentic and lasting relationships with those whom they represent.
711 Grand Avenue, Suite 230, San Rafael, CA
628.240.3854
The Face College Savings: Gary Sipos, College Cash Solutions
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Gary Sipos, College Cash Solutions
We help families reduce their college costs. Did you know 529 plans work against your obtaining scholarships and grants, and grandparent owned 529 plans reduce awards five times as much? If you own a home or a rental property they can be excluded as assets thus providing more scholarships and grants for your student. There are hundreds of non-intuitive rules that will increase the amount of scholarships and grants your student may be awarded for college. Many families deserve scholarships and grants but fail to receive them by not deciphering the thousands of pages of the Department of Education Codes.
We have read them, know the rules, and will help you maximize the amount of scholarships and grants your student can receive for college.
College Cash Solutions, based in San Rafael since 2010, has helped hundreds of families. Let us help yours. Contact us at www.CollegeCashSolutions.com and book a meeting to find out how we can help you Reduce Your College Costs.
4040 Civic Center Drive, Suite 200, San Rafael, CA
415.742.0717
Faces of Marin’s Local Businesses: California Pacific Orthopedics
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The Face of Music for a Cause: Michelle Schmitt
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FACE OF MUSIC FOR A CAUSE
Michelle Schmitt
Michelle Schmitt is a singer/songwriter and producer living in Marin with a passion for music and philanthropy. Growing up in Detroit, she was surrounded by great music, and at 18 years old packed up her guitar and moved to California.
A modern 70’s vibe best describes her sound with songs that stand the test of time. Michelle’s latest album, Light was released July 1st. The record features original songs recorded and produced earlier this year at her Pine Mountain Studio, alongside her band.
100% of all proceeds of Michelle’s music go to causes she is passionate about. Most recently, she has donated protective gear to medical workers helping hospitalized children (Little Wishes), contributed to Extrafood.org, World Central Kitchen and organizations providing shelter and support to those suffering during this time.
Michelle also serves on two of Joe Biden’s campaign committees and is committed to making a difference. Visit Michelleschmitt.com to learn more and help contribute to our community!
Instagram: @MichelleSchmittMusic
The Face of Interior Design: Holly Hollenbeck, HSH Interiors Principal Designer
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Holly Hollenbeck, HSH Interiors Principal Designer
As a visual omnivore who eagerly poured through her mother’s Architectural Digest magazines, Holly Hollenbeck’s raw talent and passion for design was apparent at a young age. Before establishing HSH Interiors in 2002, Holly primed her entrepreneurial spirit and developed a sharp business acumen working in investment banking, consulting and at an internet start-up. Ultimately, she decided to pursue what she had always gravitated towards and enrolled at UC Berkeley’s Interior Design Program and quickly took the leap to start her own company. Driven by the mantra that “life is not a dress rehearsal,” Holly believes everyone deserves a home that is a means to living life to the fullest; a bespoke space that embodies their dreams, passions and lifestyle. While Holly’s projects are predominantly in the Bay Area, her portfolio also includes clients in Jackson Hole, Squaw Valley, Manhattan Beach and Beverly Hills. Holly was a longtime Marin resident and currently lives on San Francisco’s Alamo Square with her husband and three children.
7 Clement Street, San Francisco, CA
415.702.6460
The Face of Social Impact: Larry and Jeff, Hadley General Construction Inc.
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Larry Hadley, President and Owner; Jeff Hadley, General Manager
Hadley General Construction Inc. has served the Bay Area since 1950. Some of the charitable contributions:
- Donated The Bandwagon (mobile concert stage) to Belvedere’s Concerts-in-the-Park.
- 24 years of annual donation to Concerts-in-the-Park.
- Replaced entry stairs at Old St. Hilary’s Church.
- Donated labor to install historic signs throughout Belvedere and Tiburon.
- Donated gazebo at Belvedere Park for Belvedere’s Centennial celebration.
- Donated all labor for playground construction at Belvedere City Park.
- Buildout of Belvedere-Tiburon Visitor Center for the Tiburon Chamber of Commerce.
85 Beach Road, Belvedere, CA
The Faces of Luxury Cabinetry and Design: Sean Kelly, Lamperti Contracting and Design
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Sean Kelly, Lamperti Contracting and Design
Since 1965, Lamperti Contracting & Design continues to be Marin County’s premier kitchen and bath design firm. The community of Marin retains our expertise for a myriad of services — turnkey design-build, custom cabinetry or just adding Sub-Zero, Wolf, and Cove appliances to their living spaces. We understand trends — what was old is new again with various updated features — aged brass, wood finishes, texture and pops of colors. Join us at our newly reimagined showroom. Featuring the latest in custom cabinetry, countertops, mixed metals, oversized and custom hoods; and our new Sub-Zero/Wolf/Cove appliance parlor. “I’m seeing a new spin of old classic designs being incorporated in Marin’s finest homes.” — Sean Kelly, Owner/CEO
1241 Andersen Drive, San Rafael, CA
415.454.1623
The Face of Plastic Surgery: Karen M. Horton, MD, MSc, FACS, FRCSC
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Karen M. Horton, MD, MSc, FACS, FRCSC
Dr. Karen Horton is one of very few women Plastic Surgeons in the Bay Area. In private practice since 2006, Dr. Horton focuses on cosmetic surgery for women of the face, neck, breasts or body and complicated breast reconstruction or cosmetic revision cases.
A Marin resident and mother of fraternal twin girls, Dr. Karen sees fellow Marin Moms in consultation for Mommy Makeover procedures including breast augmentation, breast lifts or reductions, tummy tucks, liposuction, labiaplasty and non-surgical cosmetic treatments such as Botox and other neuromodulators, dermal fillers, IPL and CoolSculpting.
Dr. Horton’s entire office team is dedicated to providing EACH patient with the most comfortable, unintimidating and positive experience, from the first email or phone call to the final results! She treats her patients like a good friend or family member, is available to them 24/7, and demands the very best results, no matter how minor the procedure. A perfectionist is exactly what a Plastic Surgeon should be!
2100 Webster Street, #506, San Francisco, CA
415.923.3067
The Face of Fashion Lifestyle Optimization: Victoria Hitchcock Style
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Victoria Hitchcock Style
SF’s Hustle called me “The Hoodie Exterminator.” The Times (London) said I am “given to acts of benevolent ruthlessness.” But I prefer to think of myself as a style-icon creator and fashion lifestylist, transforming my clients’ fashion and lifestyle into a business or personal brand as unique as they are.
A product of southern California and Spain, my fashion journey began at age 10 on a family trip. As others viewed artwork at the Museo del Prado in Madrid, I dangled my scrawny legs from a bench, mentally dressing passing visitors with elements from the classic paintings on display.
I still optimize people’s style, but now it’s because they ask. And instead of using classic paintings, I use the Deconstructed Office and LifestyleTM approach I’ve created. Personal branding for work and life, in-person and virtual.
It’s gratifying to be referred to as “the world’s most exclusive stylist” by GQ, but the truth is, my most satisfying job is being a mom to my four kids.
Bay Area, CA
415.779.4577
The Face of Orthodontics: Jason Lee, D.D.S.
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Jason Lee, D.D.S.
Dr. Jason Lee’s dedication to his patients and craft make him a true find in Marin County. A graduate of Columbia University’s School of Dental Medicine, he has spent his career cultivating a unique approach to orthodontics, marrying his knowledge and focus with a family-friendly ethos that welcomes children and adults alike. Built from the ground up, JL orthodontics has been described as calm and zen- facilitating a smooth orthodontic experience for all involved.
As a result-driven orthodontist, Dr. Lee tailor-makes every treatment plan to fit with the unique needs of each patient. He arrives at the finish-line with spectacular smiles by providing an unparalleled level of care.
Dr. Lee lives in West Marin with his wonderful wife, two boisterous boys, and two Rhodesian Ridgebacks in tow. JL Orthodontics is here to care for you and your family during your orthodontic years.
770 Tamalpais Drive, Suite 401A, Corte Madera, CA
415.924.JLEE (5533)
info@jlorthodontics.com
Faces of Plastic Surgery and Med Spas: Stanley, Trent and Yngvar, Plastic Surgery Specialists
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Stanley G. Poulos, M.D., Trent D. Douglas, M.D., Yngvar Hvistendahl, M.D., Plastic Surgery Specialists
Plastic Surgery Specialists (PSS) has been a fixture in Marin aesthetics for 13 years, and our three board-certified plastic surgeons boast more than 60 years of combined experience. Our 6000sq. ft. clinic next door to Marin Health Center combines an accredited surgery center, a world class Medspa with specially trained aesthetic nurses utilizing the latest technologies in non-invasive services, and one of the most beautiful, friendly, and professional patient care centers you will find. Our team of 20 professionals works every day to do one thing: provide an exceptional experience, for every patient, every time.
The first half of 2020 brought great challenges to all of us, but we will come out on the other side safer and stronger. We thank our patients for many years of support.
350 Bon Air Road, Suite 300, Greenbrae, CA
415.925.2880
Faces of Marin’s Local Businesses: Martha Bodell, North Coast Tile & Stone
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TILE AND STONE FABRICATION AND INSTALLATION
Martha Bodell, North Coast Tile & Stone
North Coast Tile & Stone has been helping people navigate thru heartache due to the fires over the past 3 years. Now we face another challenging time with Covid19. NCT continues to be a company that cares, helps, contributes and is dedicated to keeping you in your home and working for you in a way that is mindful as well as detail orientated.
Martha leads the North Coast Tile and Showroom team in working with designers, contractors, architects and homeowners with a confident, thoughtful and professional attitude.
NCT is a one stop shop which offers stone slabs, a beautiful tile selection, design services and installation of both stone and tile. One client says, “Being in Martha’s showroom is like being in her living room. The care that was taken with the selection, design and installation of our slabs and tile made us feel like family”.
Please call with any questions on how to schedule appointments with us during this time.
3854 Santa Rosa Avenue, Santa Rosa, CA
707.586.2064
Faces of Compassion: Jesus, George, Melanie and Mark, Valley Memorial Park
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Jesus Santana, George Estes, Melanie Flores and Mark Mulholland, Valley Memorial Park
During these uncertain times it is always comforting to see a familiar face. When you have suffered the loss of a loved one, you can trust that the caring staff at Valley Memorial Park Cemetery & Funeral Home will provide your family with compassionate, dignified, affordable, highest quality of care during your time of need. We take pride in our responsibility to lighten your burden as you take the first steps toward healing. By being full-service facility, we are able to handle all your needs in one location. Funeral Services held in our on-site Chapel or your house of worship, Cemetery Property for Traditional, Cremation or Green Burial, on-site Crematory, and Reception Center. From the first hour to the funeral service and or graveside burial, we will be there for you and your family.
Valley Memorial Park Cemetery and Funeral Home
650 Bugeia Lane, Novato, CA
COA#377, FD#2295
415.897-9609
Faces of Youth Services in Marin and Beyond: Side by Side
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Side by Side
At Side by Side, we walk with young people impacted by adversity on their journeys to heal from trauma, restore resilience, and embrace their potential. We provide comprehensive essential services that honor our clients’ unique needs and strengths to prevent the escalation of dangerous conditions and behaviors and set them on a positive path. And against the backdrop of the COVID-19, our behavioral and mental health services are needed now more than ever.
From special education and early intervention in school to LGBTQ support and transitional housing for foster youth, Side by Side provides the safe space most have missed in their lives. When they feel seen for who they are today, we believe the young people we serve can move with confidence toward a future with meaning and connection.
For 125 years, Side by Side has been at the forefront of best practices in child welfare. Today, Side by Side operates in four counties – Marin, Alameda, Sonoma, and Napa – each year reaching over 2,500 youth ages 5-26 and family members.
300 Sunny Hills Drive, Bldg. #5, San Anselmo, CA
415.457.3200
Faces of Making Lives Sparkle: Samantha Tradelius, Sparkle Foundation Inc.
Samantha Tradelius, Executive Director, Sparkle Foundation Inc. / SparkleBiz
At Sparkle, our mission is to serve single mothers and their children through gifts/goods, enrichment and resources. We have set our sights high and know our efforts are needed now more than ever before.
2019 was a big year for us with the expansion of two new chapters, our reach now expands to Los Angeles and Sacramento metro areas. In March, we enhanced our resource arm introducing, SparkleBiz — where we offer micro-loans focused on single mothers that want to start or grow their businesses. Currently we are loading 1500 backpacks stuffed with forty items for our youth to begin the school year. Each bag will be filled with school supplies, hand sanitizer and face masks to enter the school year in a positive manner. These bags will be handed out by Team Sparkle and local law enforcement agencies in Novato, San Rafael, Solano County, San Francisco, Citrus Heights and Sacramento County Sheriff offices. We believe in women, and we know we can make a difference in their lives and those of their children as well, together.
Every day is a day to make a difference.
Novato, CA
415.552.5600
