- Record: Extensions of Remarks
- Section type: Recognition
- Chamber: House
- Date: May 21, 2026
- Congress: 119th Congress
- Why this source matters: Extensions of Remarks are statements submitted for the official record, even if they were not spoken live on the floor.
HON. JOSH HARDER
of california
in the house of representatives
Mr. HARDER of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize and honor the extraordinary career of Kay Ruhstaller, Chief Executive Officer of the Family Resource Center in San Joaquin County. After more than three decades of transformational leadership, fearless advocacy, and unwavering commitment to children and families, Kay leaves behind a legacy that has strengthened countless lives across the Central Valley.
one of San Joaquin County's largest nonprofit organizations, stewarding a budget of more than $100 million and serving over 8,000 children each year. Under her guidance, the Family Resource Center became a statewide model for innovative, equity-driven, and collaborative approaches to strengthening families and supporting children.
and families are the foundation of a healthy community and that diversity is San Joaquin County's greatest strength. She advocated against cuts to SNAP and Medicare, expanded access to early learning opportunities, championed youth voice through the Teen IMPACT Center, and co-founded the San Joaquin Children's Alliance, helping secure more than $5 million in mental health funding for families following the pandemic.
establish 211 San Joaquin, which now supports more than 500,000 residents annually, strengthened trauma-informed services at the Family Justice Center, and oversaw the delivery of more than 4 million healthy meals to children. Her leadership also extended statewide through service on the First 5 San Joaquin Commission and the California Early Childhood Policy Council. In 2023, as the 13th female President of the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce, she elevated childcare as a workforce priority and strengthened partnerships across the region.
especially women. She is widely recognized as a generous mentor whose authenticity and steady guidance have helped emerging leaders find their voice and step into leadership roles. In recognition of her extraordinary service and impact, Kay received the 2025 ATHENA Award from the Greater Stockton Chamber of Commerce.
remarkable career and steadfast dedication to the people of San Joaquin County, and in wishing her all the best in her well-earned retirement.