Ashley Matysiak (she/her)

Ashley grew up in the Bay Area and is excited to serve the community she calls home as Hidden Villa’s Senior Program Director. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and her Master of Social Work from San José State University. Throughout her career, Ashley has helped nonprofit organizations grow and evolve while expanding opportunities for education and growth for young people in and from foster care. She was drawn to Hidden Villa’s commitment to access, believing everyone should have the opportunity to experience the joy and connection that come from spending time in nature. As the parent of two young children, she especially values creating outdoor experiences that spark curiosity, deepen connections to nature, and help every child feel they belong. Two of Ashley’s favorite mission-aligned books are Prodigal Summer by Barbara Kingsolver and Walking with the Wind by John Lewis, which reflect her appreciation for both the natural world and the ongoing work of building a more just and inclusive society.