FRESNO, Calif. – Kristina Pasma, an injury prevention coordinator with Valley Children’s Healthcare, was honored for her impact in the community at the 29th Annual Fresno Compact Luncheon.
Pasma, who has worked at Valley Children’s for 24 years, was honored for her leadership of Safe Kids Central California, a program she has been involved with for 13 years. She was also recognized for building meaningful partnerships with Fresno Unified School District.
Her work in the community began by training small groups of students on injury prevention topics such as helmet safety and reckless driving – and has since expanded to reach thousands of students and staff. It’s also evolved to include mentorship, college readiness efforts, scholarships and pathways into healthcare careers through collaboration with Fresno Unified’s Career Technical Education program.
“Young people refill my cup,” Pasma said. “Working with them is exciting and invigorating, and it’s exciting to be with people who are eager to make a difference.”
In addition to her work at the hospital, Pasma can regularly be found taking part in onsite school visits and trainings, presenting on injury prevention topics and attending community events.
“Kristina exemplifies our commitment to keep kids well where they live, learn and play,” said Lynne Ashbeck, senior vice president and chief community impact officer. “We couldn’t be more grateful for her work to keep our kids safe.”
Pasma said the recognition reflects the broader impact of the program on students.
“This work has become a labor of love,” she said. “Sometimes all kids need is an adult who believes in them.”
To learn more about the injury prevention program at Valley Children’s, click here.
