On December 5, 2023, the Community Collaborative of Tahoe Truckee (CCTT), a Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation program, recognized three social service professionals for their outstanding work. The Collaborative has been annually recognizing the work of partners from over forty-five health, social service, education, and community-based organizations who collaborate, network, and work together to maximize resources for children, families, and seniors in the North Lake Tahoe Truckee region.
Peers have acknowledged these individuals for their significant contributions to the community. Partners submitted nominations for CCTT's annual awards in November. Of these nominees, one of our Town staff members was nominated and honored with the Chris Ballin Award. The Chris Ballin Award was awarded to the Town of Truckee's Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Program Manager, Erica Mertens. The award honors those who advocate for cultural competency, equality, and social justice in our community.
Chris Ballin is remembered as the founder and long-time Director of La Comunidad Unida (The United Community), formed in response to growing racial tension on the North Shore in the 1980s. Chris was an enthusiastic collaborator and a powerful voice for the Latinx community, teaching cultural competency and demanding social equity.
Erica is recognized for her dedication to prioritizing equity in her work with the community. She is a prominent figure who promotes racial justice, equality, and cultural competency. She has been instrumental in leading CCTT's racial equity learning experience as a member of the Racial Equity subcommittee, providing resources and training to over 60 CCTT partners. She also co-founded the DEI Collaborative, which brings together different community partners to work together on social justice concerns. We are so proud and grateful for her dedication, courage, and passion, which undoubtedly shows in her work and everyday life. Please join us in celebrating Erica's much-deserved recognition and contributions to the Town's diversity efforts.
Read about the two other CCTT Award recipients recognized this year, Maddie Leh and Anne Rarick, in Sierra Sun's article.