Lisa Joins the Board and Brings a Lifetime of Community Spirit

Lisa knows what it means to show up for her community. She has been doing it for more than 30 years and somehow makes it look easy. 

Lisa Wittke Schaffner

Born and raised in Sonoma County, Lisa grew up watching her parents live out the true meaning of giving back. Her family ran a tire shop, and her dad also served as the local Sheriff. Helping neighbors and supporting small businesses was just part of the daily routine. For Lisa, giving back was not a choice. It was just how things were done. 

Fast forward a few decades, and not much has changed. Lisa has spent 20 years in public office, serving on the Healdsburg City Council and the Sonoma County Board of Education. Now she is the CEO of the North Coast Builders Exchange, where she focuses on member services, advocacy and workforce development. That is just a fancy way of saying she works hard to lift up others and make the community stronger. 

Lisa’s connection to Boys & Girls Clubs started with the Healdsburg Club, and it has only grown over the years. She is looking forward to seeing the new clubhouse come to life and calls it a future gem for the community. Considering her deep love for family gatherings, especially now with grandkids in the mix, it is easy to see why the Club's mission speaks to her. 

When did you first understand what it meant to give back or be part of a community?   

“My sense of community, being involved and always giving back came from my parents. They owned a tire company and my dad was a Sheriff. The examples of helping neighbors and small businesses happened daily.” 

If you could give your 10-year-old self one piece of advice, what would it be?   

“The plan will change, you have to be flexible and things rarely roll out the way you believe they will.” 

What kind of kid were you?  

“I had lots of words as a kid and so many questions. I was very logical and curious. I always felt a little like an adult and started trying to manage things at a very young age.” 

So basically, Lisa has been preparing for this her whole life. We are thrilled to welcome her to the board. She brings energy, experience and a whole lot of heart.