our executive team

  • Tasha Locks

    FOUNDER/PRESIDENT

    Tasha, a resilient leader and founder of Youth Rising has a life-long passion for championing underdogs and marginalized communities, making a positive impact across the country.

  • Caitlin Okrzesik

    VP OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT & EVENTS

    Caitlin Okrzesik is a results-driven professional with over eight years of expertise in community engagement, event management, and program development. Based in Nashville, TN, Caitlin relocated from Pensacola, Florida where she graduated with a bachelor's degree in Public Relations from the University of West Florida.

  • Wendell moon

    VP OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS

    National champion, storytelling specialist, documentary & corporate filmmaker, brand strategist, fractional CMO, and TEDx speaker…

  • BROOKE BARBER

    VP OF RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT

    Brooke brings over a decade of institutional giving experience from a diverse array of nonprofit agencies, coupled with a passion for change and fostering healthy communities.

  • Kelly Polk

    CONTROLLER

    To enhance financial oversight and stability, we have brought on board an external CPA/Controller, Kelly Polk. Kelly joins us with nearly a decade of expertise in accounting, auditing, and financial consulting.

OUR STAFF

Melanie kmetz

Director of Business Operations

Hannah richardson

Advancement Manager

bridget vargas

Direct Support Professional

jamie morton

On-Call Direct Support Professional

joshua lichner

Direct Support Professional

Anthony diaz

Direct Support Specialist

zetta lewis

Interim Lead
Direct Service Professional

micah hardman

Drop-In Site Coordinator

randi breshears

Direct Support Specialist

heather terrian

Drop-In Site Coordinator

joseph rourke

Direct Support Specialist

Tayler Mcclaughey

PRN Direct Support Specialist

Sarah stone

Peer Advocate

Bailee marshall

Peer Advocate

Elizabeth Smith

Drop-In Site Coordinator

together, we rise.

Are you ready to make a difference in the world? Passionate about driving change and creating a better future? Join our mission to make a positive impact and break generational cycles affecting youth.