Interim Director named for Tahoe Youth & Family Services

SOUTH LAKE TAHOE, Calif. - Tahoe Youth and Family Services announced today that Christopher Croft has officially resigned his position as Executive Director effective November 15, 2017. He has served the communities of South Lake Tahoe, Douglas County and Alpine County in this position since June 10, 2014.

During his time at Tahoe Youth and Family Services, Croft has worked closely with community partners in the formation of a Behavioral Health Task Force in Douglas County, a Community Mental Health Collaborative in El Dorado County and in bringing the Suicide Prevention Network to the TYFS office in South Lake Tahoe.
As his reason for leaving, Croft decided he needed to make more time for family and his daughter.

The Board of Directors has named Dr. Virginia Berry as Interim Director. She will work closely with Christopher Croft before he leaves to ensure a smooth transition for clients, staff and the community.

Dr. Berry is a 25-year resident of South Lake Tahoe where she raised her two children, Alex and Christina. She was the Dean of Career Technical Education and Instruction at Lake Tahoe Community College where she collaborated with local community partners to launch both the fire academy and the adult education programs. Virginia has served on the boards of Live Violence Free, Job One in El Dorado County, and the Lake Tahoe South Shore Chamber of Commerce.

“I am excited to bring my public and private sector leadership experience to Tahoe Youth and Family Services,” said Dr. Berry, who has a Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology. “My father was a homeless teenager and I connect to TYFS's mission of giving at risk youth hope and opportunities.”

“My decision to leave has been made easier knowing the agency will be good hands,” said Croft.

“As I reflect on the three years Mr. Christopher Croft served as our Executive Director many accomplishments and emotions come up,” said TYFS Board President Pam Wheeler. “Chris has been dedicated to his position and has strengthened the relationships between Tahoe Youth and other community agencies. Chris is a compassionate man who has shared his heart with our staff, clients and Board. I sincerely wish all the best for Chris and his family as their journey continues.

“Under the direction of Dr. Virginia Berry we can all anticipate a smooth transition,” added Wheeler. “She is a long time local resident with strong connections to our community. We look forward to her bringing her dedication and leadership to all of the communities we serve: South Lake Tahoe, Gardnerville and Alpine County.”