
By Terra Avilla
I first met Amy back when I was a fresh-faced patrol officer, in the sally port as I would take the occasional transport to Lassen County jail. Little did I know that those routine drop-offs would lead to a decade old friendship.
It’s hard not to like Amy because she is just so do Amy’s not just any jail supervisor – she’s part of the heart and soul of the Lassen County Adult Detention Facility. With the daunting job of managing a correctional facility of inmates under her watch, you’d think she’d be all busy but that’s where you’d be wrong. Amy’s got a knack for balancing leadership with a compassionate touch that’s rarer than a snowless winter around here.
So, what exactly makes Amy stand out? I think it’s her uncanny ability to see the potential in everyone who walks through those jail doors. She’s not content with just keeping the peace – oh no, Amy’s on a mission to change lives.
That’s not just impressive – that’s a life-changing mindset to have right there.
Amy always makes it a point to volunteer for activities in the community and encourages her other officers to do so as well! (I have to say Amy is a fan favorite at every Holiday with a Hero event, because she is so lovable.)
Amy’s always looking for ways to make the facility safer and more efficient, because let’s face it, in a small community like ours, keeping the bad stuff out is crucial for everyone’s safety.
What really sets Amy apart, though, is her genuine care for both her staff and the inmates.
She’s not just pushing papers and barking orders. No sir, Amy’s the kind of supervisor who remembers your kid’s Little League game and asks about how your kids are doing at softball.
In addition to her role as a dedicated supervisor, Amy Foster is a remarkable mom to her very active sons, who are deeply involved in athletics. Balancing her demanding job with their busy schedules, she consistently shows up for their games and practices, offering support and encouragement.
Whether it’s cheering them on at baseball games or traveling around for football, Amy is fully present and engaged.
Folks like Amy Foster are why we love this place. In Lassen County, we don’t just talk about community – we live it. We support each other, lift each other up, and believe in second chances. Amy embodies all of that and more.
So next time you’re driving down the street and see the county jail, give a little nod. Because inside those walls, there’s a woman named Amy Foster who’s making our community stronger, one inmate at a time. And that, my friends, is something worth celebrating this Wednesday and every day.