Community Engagement
Serving on the Bethel School Board isn’t just about meetings — it’s about showing up, listening, and being present for our students, families, and community. Our schools do not stand alone; they are part of a larger ecosystem where parents, educators, and community members all play a vital role. When our community is strong and engaged, our schools thrive — and when our schools thrive, the entire community benefits. Here are some of the events, activities, and milestones I’ve been honored to attend, each reflecting my commitment to building strong schools and stronger communities.
CJK Community Homes
EMPOWERING LIVES THROUGH HOUSING, HEALING, AND HOPE
I’m honored to stand alongside my friend and founder of CJK Community Homes, Noemi Cagatin-Porter, an amazing nonprofit serving our community.
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What they do: CJK provides critical support services to those who need it most — including housing support, transitional living, case management, and wraparound services to help individuals stabilize their lives, regain independence, and rebuild with dignity.
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They partner with local community organizations and government agencies to expand reach, secure resources, and strengthen the safety net in our region.
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If you or someone you know needs help — or if you want to support a mission that empowers neighbors — please visit cjkcommunityhomes.org to learn more about their services or get involved.
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I’m proud to call their founder a friend and to share this mission with you. Together, we build stronger communities.
Manhita
HOPE, HEALING, AND COMMUNITY
I had the honor of attending the Hope & Healing Fundraiser hosted by Manhita — a beautiful event bringing our community together to support two causes that impact so many lives: domestic violence awareness and breast cancer awareness.
It was powerful to stand alongside survivors, advocates, and community leaders who are working every day to bring healing, resources, and hope to those who need it most.
To everyone who attended, organized, donated, or showed support — thank you. Your compassion and commitment reflect the strength of our community.
All American Girl Pageant
CELEBRATING POISE, CONFIDENCE, & CHARACTER
I had the absolute pleasure of meeting Stella, the Junior Teen Miss of the All-American Girl Nationals — and she’s from right here in our very own Bethel School District! 🌟
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The All-American Girl Pageant isn’t just about crowns or sashes — it’s about confidence, leadership, community service, and personal growth. Through this program, girls learn poise, public speaking, teamwork, and self-empowerment while building friendships and giving back to their communities.
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It’s inspiring to see young leaders like Stella representing our district with such grace and dedication. She truly embodies what it means to be a role model for other students and future community leaders. 👑
Poise
Grace
Confidence
Community
South Sound Pow Wow
COMMUNITY, CULTURE, CONNECTION
Celebrated at the South Sound Pow Wow — an incredible event honoring Native culture, tradition, and community. A reminder of the importance of celebrating diversity in our schools.
WA Dept of Social & Health Services
Long-Term Care Workforce Navigator
CAREGIVER TRAINING & CONNECTION SERVICES
Learned so much from Yan Heng, a long-term care Workforce Navigator helping to train caregivers and connect patients with caregivers needing assistance. Reach out to her for any inquiries or refer others that may be interested in caregiver training or opportunities.
Puyallup Tribe of Indians Community Domestic Violence Program
STANDING AGAINST VIOLENCE. SUPPORTING SURVIVORS.
I had the honor of meeting advocates from the Puyallup Tribe of Indians’ Community Domestic Violence Advocacy Program (CDVAP), including Jennine Devenuti, who is an anti-trafficking advocate.
They shared information about the services they provide — connecting anyone in our community with vital resources such as hotlines, shelters, and support networks.
Domestic violence and trafficking impact people of all backgrounds, and knowing where to turn for help is critical. I’m grateful for their commitment and want to help spread awareness of this resource so that those in need can find support.
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For more information or to report a tip call:
National Human Trafficking Resource Center 24/7 Hotline
1-888-373-7888
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The CDVAP can be reached at (253) 680-5499
WA Education Association-PAC Summit Dinner w/Endorsed Candidates
STANDING WITH EDUCATORS AT THE WEA-PAC SUMMIT DINNER
I was honored to attend the Summit WEA-PAC Chapter Dinner, where educators from Bethel, Fife, Franklin Pierce, and Puyallup gathered in support of public education and labor issues. It was a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow candidates, listen to the priorities of our teachers, and build partnerships for the future. I especially appreciated meeting Melissa Bedford running for Puyallup School Board Director & Bryan Yambe of the Pierce County Council — inspiring leaders committed to student success and strong schools.
Workers’ Town Hall with
WA Attorney General Nick Brown
LISTENING TO WORKERS, BUILDING COMMUNITY
Joined community members at the Workers’ Town Hall, in partnership with the WA State Labor Council and Pierce County Central Labor Council. Grateful for the leadership of our state's AG in ensuring workers’ voices are heard.
