I currently hold the position of Executive Director of Villa de Vida, Inc., and have been here for about 7 years. Villa de Vida, Inc. is a non-profit that was created to empower adults with Intellectual and developmentally disabled adults to live and explore life fully. We partnered with our community and raised funds to create one of the first affordable housing communities that was designed and built for adults with developmental disabilities.
About Hunter Christian
Q: Please tell us a little bit about your family.
I have a wonderful family and I am the lucky Mom of 3 adult children, one of them is on the Autism Spectrum. I have sailed around the world with my husband of 30 years and enjoy the water tremendously.
Q: Please tell us about your current, past, or future career. What do you love most about what you do?
The Executive Director participates in all aspects of Villa de Vida including, but not limited to, development, fundraising, budget, advocacy, operations, services, and community relations. The Executive Director reports directly to the Chairman of the Board and, although not a member of the Board, advises and attends all board meetings. Hunter holds a BSBA degree in Finance from the University of Florida, and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Finance and Systems from the Warrington College of Business Administration, University of Florida, graduating with honors.
Q: What advice would you give to people?
Be kind always. Celebrate good things and live in an atmosphere of gratitude.
Q: Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
In the following years of my career, I hope to see Villa de Vida, Inc. build more affordable housing. As a group, we need at least 20,000 more units. I would like to see our jobs program increase in size. We have hired employees with disabilities and I see opportunities everywhere. Our Social Club is expanding and our virtual outreach has multiplied.
Hunter Christian & Our Community
Q: What are a couple of your favorite restaurants in our community?
Villa Capri Trattoria & Wine Bar, Sushi Lounge & Hop Stop
Q: How long have you lived or worked in our community?
I have lived and worked in San Diego County for 30 years and most recently 7 years in Poway.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in our community?
William Volkmann….He’s a man profoundly affected by cerebral palsy. He moved here a year ago and has found a place to live, work and enjoy his life as well as connect with others that have CP and help make their lives as full as they want them to be.
Q: What current or former local business makes you the most nostalgic about our community?
I love the Poway Chamber of Commerce. This organization embodies what it means to be in a community. There is always someone willing to pitch in to help make someone or another organization successful. It is so much more than just a group of business owners. We are family, we are citizens – we are looking out for the highest, best outcomes for all.
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about our community?
Poway is a haven for inclusivity. I have never experienced a place that goes out of its way to include people with intellectual and developmental disabilities quite as completely as Poway.
Q: If you could choose anyone that is alive today and not a relative; with whom would you love to have lunch? Why? And where locally would y’all meet for this lunch?
Rakesh Patel, CEO of Neighborhood Health. I listened to a class that he taught and thought about how dynamic and engaging he was. He also loved his job and I have seen his work in action. He works hard and he also volunteers. I think it would be fun and extraordinarily insightful for me as an executive director for a small non-profit.
For Fun
Q: What is one of your favorite movies? TV shows?
Moonrise Kingdom
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
I think that it is hilarious that I was a cheerleader for most of high school.
Q: What would you rate a 10 out of 10?
The Rady Shell – the best concert venue ever.
Q: Who inspires you to be better?
All of the adults that have disabilities do their best every day with a smile on their face.
Q: Finally, what 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME?
Something everyone deserves !!
