Kiersten was introduced to WYN through service learning at Appalachian State. She joined the WYN team after graduating in 2016 with her BS in English Secondary Education. She loves working at WYN because of the exuberant personalities the students have, and the wonderful relationships she gets to build with them.

Gabbie first joined WYN during her internship and recently graduated from Appalachian State University with a B.S. in Criminal Justice. She is passionate about providing youth support and promoting authenticity. Outside of work, Gabbie spends her time with her pets and being active outdoors.

Sarah graduated from Appalachian State University in 2024 with a B.S. in Psychology/Human Services. After growing up in rural Appalachia, her goal was to continue her career working with Appalachian communities. Her passion for helping her community and building strong relationships with kids is why she chose WYN!

Following graduation from Appalachian State in 2017, Kelsey has spent her career following her passion for serving rural youth communities and promoting holistic wellness approaches as a CIS Site Coordinator and now a WYN Afterschool Site Leader. She approaches her work with a firm belief in the wisdom of Rita Pierson: “every child deserves a champion.”

Tara graduated from WCC in 2015 with an Associates in General Education. She has a background in working with youth affected by intimate partner violence and prevention education. She believe that through early intervention and education on self-esteem and positive relationships we can put an end to generational trauma in our community.

Rita’s early challenges and experiences deeply shaped her outlook on life, cultivating a strong sense of empathy and responsibility. Her interactions are guided by a desire to create a better world for the next generation, fostering environments where they can thrive. She hopes to leave each day better than she found it and support those who may otherwise feel alone.

Chanecka is a mother of 5, 2 with special needs. She has 10+ years experience working with at-risk youth. She has a passion for encouraging youth to see beyond their circumstances, as well as valuing the importance of exposure to diverse cultural experiences.

Born and raised in Chicago, John recognizes the profound impact of growing up in a culturally diverse community. Partnering with the dynamic WYN staff, he is dedicated to helping young people discover and cultivate their passions early in life.

Elizabeth holds a BS in Art Education (Appalachian State ’03) and has taught in public and private schools for 12 years. Her desire for serving nonprofit organizations began when she worked at the only local private Christian school to broaden the options for her children. She encourages youth to think outside the box while creating a safe space in which they can flourish.

A native to the Appalachian mountains, Carla transitioned to WYN after working in education with school age children for over 11 years. Her desire is to be a part of the process of bringing community, resiliency, healthy relationships and belonging to the youth of western North Carolina.

Haley is an Appalachian State graduate with an MBA from Gardner Webb University. She’s an Avery County native and is passionate about helping her community grow and thrive.

Julia graduated from Arizona State University with a Bachelors in Psychology. She was introduced to WYN when she became a mentor, which she describes as the most fulfilling thing she has ever been a part of. She loves getting to multiply this passion by matching youth with positive role models in the community who are willing to give them love and guidance.

Brittany (she/her) has experience in community health, non-profit work, and connections with local civic and grassroots organizations. She values creativity and relationship building as part of her work, with a focus on regional, intersectional well-being and sustainability for Appalachian communities.

Jessica is very passionate about helping others and her community. She strives to make people’s lives better everywhere she goes! She uses her giving heart generate ideas and implement them to make other’s lives not only better but fun and exciting. Outside of work, she loves hiking, exploring, and spending time family.

A graduate of Mars Hill University, Tiffany has spent her career working with individuals impacted by trauma. Through her previous work in behavioral health & advocacy for victims of intimate partner & sexual violence, she discovered a desire to address root causes of complex issues at the community level through primary prevention.