Riverside, CA - Riverside Community Health Foundation (RCHF) whose mission is to improve the health and well-being of its community is pleased to announce the appointment of two new board members to the RCHF Board of Directors.

“We are so pleased to welcome Cheylynda and Rafael to our board of directors,” stated Dr. Dan Anderson, President/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of RCHF. “Both of our new members bring the spirit of community, dedication, talent, and energy to the table. We look forward to their expertise, guidance, and leadership as we continue to stay committed to the health and well-being of our community despite these challenging times.”

Rafael Elizalde is a longtime resident of Riverside and a proud product of its public schools. He currently serves as Senior Advisor and District Director to Congressman Mark Takano where he advocates for the needs of the Inland Empire. With a passion for mentorship, Rafael has worked to guide students through careers in public service and for several years he volunteered for the statewide organization, the Chicano Latino Youth Leadership Project. Rafael has a Master’s in Public Administration from California Baptist University and a Bachelor of Arts from Claremont McKenna College.

“Organizations like RCHF are essential to a healthy and thriving community,” said Elizalde. “Right now, the need for health and well-being is greater than ever and it’s up to all of us to ensure that our residents aren’t left behind. I’m truly honored to a part of the Board of Directors and to have the opportunity to help my hometown during these trying times.”

Cheylynda Barnard is a lifelong Inland Empire resident who grew up in the city of Riverside. Cheylynda graduated from California State University, San Bernardino and returned back to the Riverside area to serve her community. For the last decade, she has served the Inland Empire as a social worker, and currently serves as the Regional Vice President of the Executive Board for SEIU Local 721, where she continues to fight for workers’ rights and social justice causes. She and her husband, Jay, currently reside in the city of Moreno Valley with their 2 young sons, Nathaniel & Maxwell.