Erika Ruiz
Family Peer Advisor

ABOUT ERIKA

As a Family Peer Advisor, Erika ensures that families are empowered and receive any support they may need.  She joined The New York Foundling to continue to grow as a professional, and reach her full potential as an advisor to family advocates. Erika is committed to this work because she loves how the Foundling helps families across New York City, and she wants to be her son’s biggest advocate! In the future, she sees herself continuing to educate and support families.

Erika, who grew up in Inwood, attended the High School for Graphic Communication Arts. She went on to graduate from Monroe College with a degree in Criminal Justice, and has also received several certifications in parenting support and child welfare. Erika now lives in Staten Island, where she enjoys spending time with her family. Although she does not have a role model, after becoming a mother she strives to be the best role model for her son.

LIVED EXPERIENCE

My lived experience started after the birth of my son, who at the age of six years old was diagnosed with ADHD then later also with ODD. It was then that I quickly learned of the challenges of having a child with a mental health diagnosis; from school phone calls every day, to frequent suspensions and even experiencing dealing with the juvenile justice system briefly because of his ongoing challenges. I now reside in Staten Island, where I continue to be my son’s biggest advocate.