Her Story
About Michelle
Michelle Avila is the Executive Director and Co-Founder of the Kern County Cancer Foundation in Bakersfield, California. Since helping establish the organization in 2012, she has dedicated her work to supporting local cancer patients and families facing the financial burden of treatment. Under her leadership, the foundation provides assistance with medical expenses related to chemotherapy, radiation, transportation, and other essential needs, helping patients focus more fully on their health and loved ones.
Michelle’s commitment to cancer advocacy was shaped by personal experience. While earning her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Southern California, she volunteered with a children’s cancer organization in Los Angeles as her father underwent cancer treatment. After his passing in 2008, she returned to Kern County and turned that experience into a mission to help others facing similar challenges. She later earned a master’s degree in Accounting from National University and completed a certificate in Corporate Community Involvement through Boston College.
Beyond her work with the foundation, Michelle remains actively involved in the Bakersfield community as a Rotarian and President of the Plank Foundation. Her leadership has been recognized by the Kern Alliance of Nonprofits and by KGET Channel 17, and her research on the financial impact of cancer has also received professional recognition. As a single mother of two daughters, Michelle has balanced family, nonprofit leadership, and community service while continuing to expand support for patients throughout Kern County. She credits her success to hard work, keeping her word, faith, and the strength of the community and board members who share her commitment to helping others.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Michelle
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to hard work, taking initiative, and making things happen. I am also incredibly grateful for the support of our community members and board members, whose commitment has played an important role in our growth and impact.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I have received is to protect and maintain a strong reputation. Your integrity, reliability, and the way you treat others can have a lasting impact on both your career and your relationships.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women to consider the nonprofit sector as a meaningful and sustainable career path. It offers the opportunity to build a rewarding profession while also making a positive difference in the community.
04What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Keeping my word, working hard, and staying grounded in my faith are the values that guide me. I believe trust is built through consistency, integrity, and following through on the commitments I make.
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