I was born and raised in the Rogue Valley. Shortly after graduating high school I started working as a caregiver in an adult foster home. This led me to working as a Skills Trainer for Jackson County Mental Health. I saw first hand that those who received help for their illness earlier had better outcomes, so I started working with youth. 

 

I started helping children with mental illness and trauma in building social/communication skills. I then helped Autistic children manage the symptoms they struggled with. I found that the methods I used to help these kids were effective but the larger question of “why?” was not answered. I saw major issues with lack of purpose and hopelessness, even when the immediate issues were successfully being managed. I struggled with these issues personally as well.

 

When I was saved by Jesus Christ, He gave me the answer to that question and the solution to that problem. I prayed for guidance on whether I should continue my work with children or if my walk with the Lord would lead me elsewhere. The Lord made it clear to me that I was to join the mission of 71Five. I was called to volunteer at Youth 71Five Ministries after hearing about them through Trail Christian Fellowship. I immediately saw the solution to this problem of hopelessness and lack of purpose. I feel incredibly honored and blessed that 71Five has brought me into their family. I see the work I do as an essential duty and serious responsibility to our next generation.