
our executive team
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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.
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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.
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Wendell moon
VP OF MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS
National champion, storytelling specialist, documentary & corporate filmmaker, brand strategist, fractional CMO, and TEDx speaker…
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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.
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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.