Riley DeBoest, Director
Riley grew up in Iowa and Minnesota, where she developed a love for community and the outdoors. She moved to Portland a few years ago to be closer to her family and embrace new opportunities. With a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology and exercise science from Iowa State University, Riley began her career in the fitness industry, helping individuals reach their health and wellness goals.
Over the past several years, she has shifted her focus to supporting adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Through this work, Riley discovered her true passion: empowering others to build independence and achieve personal growth. Her approach combines her background in fitness with a deep commitment to inspiring progress and fostering meaningful connections.
Outside of work, Riley can often be found enjoying the outdoors—whether it’s paddle-boarding, hiking, disc golfing, or trying new adventures. She also loves powerlifting, traveling, making music, and spending quality time with her husband, dog, and cats.
Erich, Communications and Outreach Coordinator and Personal Growth Advocate
Erich grew up with a love for learning, community, and meaningful conversation. His curiosity about people and the world around him led him to Iowa State University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in Business with a minors in Philosophy and Advertising.
Through both his personal and professional experiences, Erich discovered his passion for supporting others in building confidence, independence, and meaningful lives. He values creating genuine connections—whether through thoughtful conversation, encouragement, or simply being present—and brings this approach to his role as a Personal Growth Advocate.
Outside of work, Erich is dedicated to the things that keep him grounded and inspired. He competes in powerlifting, finding joy in the discipline and strength the sport requires, and balances that intensity with restorative practices like meditation and Tai Chi. He also loves playing guitar, exploring new music, and spending time outdoors—whether it’s hiking, disc golfing, taking walks with his pets, or pausing to enjoy a sunset. At home, he finds happiness in the simple moments with his wife, their two cats, and their dog.
Kai, Activities & Community Coordinator and Personal Growth Advocate
Kai (she/they) grew up in Michigan, where she got her Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice focusing on youth development and environmental impacts from Michigan State University. During her undergrad, Kai began her passion for mentoring, crisis support, and working with underserved populations. While working on her Masters degree, she moved across the country to pursue new opportunities.
Since moving to Oregon, Kai has worked as a college advising mentor, and has worked for the State of Oregon for several years. During this time, Kai realized that their true passion is working 1-1 to help individuals obtain the tools they need to navigate life, however this looks for them. Kai was inspired to work with individuals with disabilities after first hand navigating barriers herself, and learning how to advocate for others along the way.
Kai is planning to enroll in a Masters of Social work program to work in the public health system. Kai plans to combine their passion for mental health advocacy and public health to create a more accessible environment.
Outside of work, Kai can often be found reading, puzzling, playing board and video games, and writing. Kai also loves being silly, moving her body in mindful ways, and spending time with her spouse and cats.
Shriya, Personal Growth Advocate
Shriya was born and raised in Portland, Oregon, and is a first-generation American from a family originating in Fiji. She holds a BA in Psychology and Social Sciences and is currently pursuing her graduate degree in Social Work. Shriya has always known that she thrives in roles centered on helping others, and she is actively working toward becoming an established professional in the mental health field.
Shriya is a growth-oriented person who values self-compassion and continuous learning. Through years of engaging with self-help and personal development resources, she has learned the importance of approaching life with patience and curiosity. Her mantra, “It’s all in perfect order,” guides her in navigating self-doubt and maintaining a grounded perspective. With an outlook rooted in presence and acceptance, Shriya is dedicated to supporting individuals in building confidence across many areas of wellness.
Outside of work and academia, Shriya enjoys lifting weights at the gym (usually with music turned up a bit too loud), reading in the sun, and enthusiastically talking with her hands.
Ben, Personal Growth Advocate
Ben is a Portland, Oregon native whose experiences have shaped a strong appreciation for connection, community, and understanding others. He earned his bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Portland State University and has remained in the area due to his love of nature and family.
Ben previously worked as an Instructional Assistant at David Douglas High School, where he supported students from diverse backgrounds. In this role, he developed a deep respect for patience, adaptability, and clear communication. He believes that truly listening to people’s stories is the foundation of meaningful relationships and effective support.
Curious by nature, Ben values personal growth and lifelong learning, bringing that mindset into both his professional and personal life. He is committed to helping individuals build confidence, strengthen skills, and feel supported in pursuing their goals.
Outside of work, Ben enjoys playing the violin, trail running, pickleball, learning Bachata, and woodworking—interests that reflect his love for creativity, movement, and hands-on learning.
Ciara, Personal Growth Advocate
Ciara brings a background in education, communication, and people-centered leadership to her role as a Personal Growth Advocate. With a degree in Communication Studies and a Master of Education, Ciara spent years working in education before discovering a passion for supporting people beyond the classroom. She was drawn to this work because she wants to make a tangible difference in people’s lives and work alongside others to help make it happen.
Ciara is growth-oriented and believes everyone has the ability to grow and thrive with the right support, encouragement, and tools. She values authenticity, resilience, connection, faith, self-compassion, and lifelong learning. She is passionate about helping people recognize their strengths, overcome obstacles, build confidence, and discover their potential.
Outside of work, Ciara enjoys singing, watching movies, staying up-to-date on current events, and exploring self-improvement books and videos. She especially enjoys playing sports and singing karaoke with family and friends.
Xochilt, Personal Growth Advocate
I was born and raised in Los Angeles, California. I am Mexican American and speak fluent Spanish. My parents are Mexican, and I am thankful to have grown up in Los Angeles, where Mexican culture thrives. I come from a big family, and most of them are still in Los Angeles, so I go home frequently. I strongly believe in the importance of showing up for the people you love.
My boyfriend and I decided to move to Portland because I really wanted to experience the seasons. We made the move on our own, leaving behind our family and friends, which was challenging but worth it. I especially love autumn, so I’m very thankful I’ve gotten to experience it here in the Pacific Northwest—it’s truly beautiful!
I have an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration. I am also a certified Life Coach and certified to teach yoga.
Throughout my life, change and pivoting have been a constant. Through those experiences, I’ve developed the skills to navigate and embrace change with optimism and endurance. I always hope to inspire and uplift others through positivity.
In my free time, I love spending time with my boyfriend and our dog, Chuck Bass. We enjoy grabbing coffee, taking long walks, going to farmers markets on the weekends, and cooking at home together. I also spend time with family as much as possible.
I love personal development, yoga, books, writing, and traveling. I enjoy learning and trying new things, meeting new people, and hanging out at coffee shops.
Morgan, Personal Growth Advocate
Morgan was born and raised in Beaverton, Oregon, where growing up in a multigenerational household with disabled family members inspired them to help others from a young age. They earned bachelor’s degrees in both Biomedical Science and Criminal Justice from Northern Arizona University, then returned home to the Pacific Northwest to be with family and reconnect with the diverse nature Oregon has to offer.
Currently, Morgan serves as the volunteer Board President of Focus on Youth, a local nonprofit farm that provides food for people experiencing homelessness. Volunteering is in their blood, and they have been doing it since high school. Through this position and their passion for volunteering, they have developed a deep sense of community and learned the importance of supporting others.
In the past, Morgan worked as a clinical researcher, conducting studies focused on the health of individuals over time. They entered this line of work with the goal of contributing to the long-term health and well-being of others. Morgan believes that everyone should have access to healthcare and basic human rights.
Outside of work, Morgan spends hours writing books and short stories, often accompanied by their two sweet cats. They love to read, learn something new every day, and go for nature walks throughout this beautiful area.