I joined ninety-nine girlfriends after a Girlfriend invited me when she heard me talking about my 15 years of volunteer work with unhoused individuals in the Tigard community. My work background was special education as a speech-language pathologist and administrator. I recognize that one of the factors affecting homelessness stems from different learning styles, as well as poverty, addictions, and general lack of needed support during vulnerable times of life.

So many things are happening in our world right now that feel out of control. I stay engaged and hopeful by working locally and supporting efforts that help people who are most in need. I also enjoy being connected with like-minded women who are focused on becoming educated and examining ways in which a lasting difference can be made and then doing something about it.

I am a parent of four adult children and a grandparent to nine amazing grandchildren, some adopted from the foster care system, biracial, and with special needs. One of my children also experiences special needs and lives with her family in a foreign country that provides a strong social services network.

Social programs designed for the benefit of people of varying backgrounds are an essential component of civilized society. It is up to each of us to build the world we want to live in. Being a Girlfriend is an opportunity to expand the impact of my efforts. Stronger together!