Jennifer Singer
Executive Director, CFRE
jennifers@bffyouth.org
Jennifer Litton Singer cofounded The Friendship Club with Mary Collier in 1995, before smartphones, social media and some of the struggles of today. But many of the challenges of three decades ago – such as poverty and social isolation – remain. Just as society has changed, The Friendship Club has evolved into Bright Futures for Youth with the merger with NEO (New Events and Opportunities) in 2020 and the creation of SAFE (Stability, Access Foundation, Empowerment), a program that helps youth experiencing housing instability. Bright Futures for Youth assists several hundred children and young adults every year, and was named Nonprofit of the Year for the 1st District of California in 2022. Jennifer, with the direction of the Board and the help of staff, has overseen the fast-paced growth of Bright Futures for Youth, which offers everything from after-school programs and life-skills classes to safety-net services such as healthy meals, clothes and housing. The nonprofit also ensures youth have access to health care and counseling – and even assists with applications for college, financial aid and scholarships. “The stories and challenges are just so overwhelming,” Jennifer says. But “after seeing these challenges knowing I could play some role in alleviating some of them, how could I not do this work? I continue to be inspired by the professional teams and volunteers we have built. They work tirelessly to ensure youth have access to a positive environment, relationships and experiences. We know that this helps youth build resiliency and thrive.” Jennifer received a bachelor’s degree in Communications from the University of Colorado at Boulder and has studied nonprofit administration in a master’s degree program at the University of San Francisco. She is a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE) and is a Board member of the Nevada County Community Foundation, CalYouth and Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital. She also serves as a Nevada City School District Board member and is a former Board member of the the Nevada County Continuum of Care. Away from work, Jennifer enjoys spending time with her family, their two Aussies, yoga and being involved in the community.
Dena Valin Malakian
Associate Director, Ed.D
denam@bffyouth.org
Dena Valin Malakian has been instrumental in the expansion of The Friendship Club to become Bright Futures for Youth and evolve into a much-larger organization in recent years. Dena joined The Friendship Club as Associate Director in 2013, when the after-school program focused solely on helping girls and young women, from building character and teaching them life skills to opening the door to endless opportunities through education and training. When The Friendship Club merged with NEO in 2020, the newly named Bright Futures for Youth expanded to include boys and young men – and added more programs, services and team members. With more than two decades of experience developing programs to support youth and leading organizations, Dena has embraced the challenge and plays a major role in Bright Futures for Youth’s success – and its mission of helping children and young adults.She wants “youth to feel accepted and loved for who they are, wherever they are so they can have a positive self-image and treat themselves and others with kindness and respect.” Prior to BFFY, Dena served as Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Nevada County and North Lake Tahoe from 2004 to 2013. She has a doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of California, Irvine. She also has a masters degree in Social Ecology. She earned two bachelors degrees from the University of California, Santa Cruz – in Anthropology and Psychology. Dena is a Nevada County native who returned after grad school. She enjoys hiking, live music performances and traveling.
Adiella Amaya
Program Assistant, NEO
AdiellaA@bffyouth.org
Adiella Amaya combines her passion to “make a difference in young people’s lives” with her position as Program Assistant for NEO, providing a critical connection to young people, parents and fellow team members. Adiella handles the ever-growing database of information on children and young adults participating in NEO. She also manages the front desk at NEO, signing young people into the program, making announcements and working with parents. “I am so grateful that I can work at an organization that prioritizes giving love and support to the community. Programs like the ones we have are incredibly vital to having a healthy and happy community.” Adiella, a former intern at Bright Futures for Youth through the Jobs Corps program, is a former team member of Child Safety Advocates in Grass Valley. She worked as a puppeteer and educated prekindergarten through third-grade students about personal safety and unwanted touching. She says Bright Futures for Youth – and NEO, which serves several hundred young people every month – provides a “safe and positive space for young people to hang out, try new things and meet new people.” Adiella is attending Sierra College, with a major in Studio Art. She enjoys art, especially ceramics, camping and spending time with friends, often along the Yuba River.
Kaitlin Bisdee
SAFE Program Manager
kaitlinb@bffyouth.org
Kaitlin Bisdee is committed to bringing more awareness to the “invisible issue” of youth homelessness in Nevada County, as many children and young adults couch surf or sleep in vehicles. As SAFE Program Manager, she knows youth experiencing homelessness is a hard-to-see but increasing problem. “I wanted to work with youth … because I noted the gap in housing resources and services available,” says Kaitlin, who was most recently a SAFE case manager and before that a caseworker for the Allegheny County Office of Children Youth and Families in Pittsburgh, PA. Western Pennsylvania or western Nevada County, the challenges of helping youth experiencing homelessness are similar. Kaitlin was attracted to SAFE because of how the program empowers and supports youth dealing with housing instability, and helps them live independently. Kaitlin graduated Summa Cum Laude with a bachelor’s degree in social work from the University of Pittsburgh, and has completed trainings and earned certifications for child welfare education to understanding drug and alcohol relapse. She also has experience in helping youth apply for and receive safety-net services. Away from work, Kaitlin – a newcomer to Nevada County – enjoys reading, playing and exploring nature with her toddler daughter.
Sienna Crawford
Development Director
siennac@bffyouth.org
As a native and longtime resident of Nevada County, Sienna Crawford wants to grow the mission of Bright Futures for Youth. Sienna, Development Director for Bright Futures for Youth, has extensive experience as a leader of organizations, including recently as Executive Director of Social Venture Partners of Sacramento, a nonprofit that supports other nonprofits in the region. She has a background in managing accounts, organizations and donor portfolios – all skills that will help Bright Futures for Youth attract more donations. Sienna is a Board member of the Nevada County Community Foundation. She earned an Executive Master’s degree in Business Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Business Management, both from the University of San Francisco. Sienna wants to “see our community gain awareness for this organization and the impact it has” on hundreds of youth every month. It’s a community that Sienna knows well. Sienna enjoys getting together with numerous family members – including six cousins – and lifelong friends living in Nevada County. She also likes hikes along the Yuba River and exploring new food and wines.
Leah Ellis
Friendship Club Program Manager
leahe@bffyouth.org
With roots going back four generations in Nevada County and an education in clinical counseling and psychology, Leah has a unique perspective on the importance of the after-school and so-much-more program for girls and young women. As Program Manager of The Friendship Club, Leah has found her “deep-rooted passion to empower the community’s youth and set them up for success – and support other professionals with the same goal.” Leah joined The Friendship Club in 2026 after being a substitute teacher for kindergarten to 12th grade students and basketball coach, both in the Nevada Joint Union High School District. She earned a Master of Education in Human Relations from Northern Arizona University with an emphasis on mental health counseling and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Human Development and Family Science from the University of Nevada, Reno. In addition to her education, Leah has experience working for multiple university counseling departments that enables her to keep a close watch on the mental wellbeing of youth and “connect to help ease the isolation and social anxiety many experience at some point in their lives.” Away from work, she likes getting you in nature, from hiking to backpacking, eating delicious food and traveling to new places.
Nicole Grimes
Finance and Human Resources Director
nicoleg@bffyouth.org
Nicole Grimes brings a decade of nonprofit experience with the far-reaching goal of “building financial systems that work smarter, not harder … and providing the clarity needed to make mission-driven decisions with confidence.” As Finance Director, Nicole focuses on strategic planning, grant management and financial operations – critical areas for a fast-growing organization that serves several hundred young people every month through three core programs. Nicole also is responsible for the human resources function. “I was drawn to BFFY’s wrap-around commitment to supporting young people through every stage of development, recognizing that strong communities are built by investing in individuals from the start. I’m excited to be part of an organization that empowers youth with the necessary tools to thrive today and tomorrow.” Nicole was most recently Finance Director for Gold Country Senior Services, a nonprofit that provides a range of programs and services that supports the health and well-being and of older residents in Nevada County. She served in numerous roles with the Grass Valley-based organization, including as acting Executive Director and Social Services Manager. Her experience will have a huge impact on Bright Futures for Youth and its financial future. Nicole, who also has knowledge in fundraising and strategic planning, wants to “make financials more approachable and useful” for the Bright Futures for Youth team. “ I also look forward to strengthening grant reporting and management systems so that BFFY can continue to grow its impact with confidence and sustainability.” Nicole is a fan of hot yoga and enjoys hiking, snowboarding and swimming – and just about anything else in nature.
Zoe Haines
SAFE Transition Age Youth Support Specialist
zoeh@bffyouth.org
Nevada County native Zoe Haines knows what is “lacking” in the community for young people – and how Bright Futures for Youth’s programs and numerous services are helping meet their needs. From providing clothing and healthy food to housing, Zoe works closely with young people faced with housing instability, from those couch surfing to others sleeping in parks or vehicles. “I bring a lot of knowledge related to social structures and how they affect the lives of youth,” says Zoe, who graduated Magna Cum Laude with a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Chico State University. “I always knew I wanted to do social work … and doing social work to help homeless youth felt like the perfect fit.” Zoe knows the importance of providing basic services for young people experiencing homelessness but would also like to “supply a space for homeless youth to express themselves artistically. I love art and found that it has helped me a lot in my life and would love to help provide art as an outlet to homeless and at-risk youth.” Before joining Bright Futures for Youth, Zoe held numerous positions, including most recently as a Human Services Specialist for Nevada County Department of Child Support Services. When Zoe isn’t working, she enjoys art, from watching movies to working with clay, especially sculpting and painting miniature food.
Kendra Hill
Case Manager, SAFE Program
kendrah@bffyouth.org
With a bachelor’s degree in sociology with a focus on human trafficking and more than three years of social-service work, Kendra Hill has the experience and energy as a Case Manager for the SAFE program. Kendra was most recently a Peer Case Manager for the Turning Point Community Program that is contracted with Nevada County Behavioral Health. She was also a Case Manager and Temporary Coordinator for the Youth Service Bureau in Eureka. “After moving back to Nevada County, I knew I wanted to work for a program that is helping youth in our community,” says Kendra, who earned a bachelor’s degree from Humboldt State University in spring 2019. She is a graduate of Nevada High School and Sierra College. “I feel passionate about helping to inspire youth and families to recognize their strength and power to live, learn, socialize and work in their community.” Kendra leads by example, with a long list of community service efforts in Nevada County and in other regions. Kendra’s most recent positions and her volunteer efforts “shed a light on the lack of services and support for our youth,” especially those experiencing homelessness, an increasing but often-overlooked issue in rural communities. Away from work, Kendra enjoys spending time with her dog and keeps busy with home-improvement projects, but when she gets a few free moments, she likes arts and crafts and embracing nature.
Johnny Johnson
NEO Music Coordinator
JohnnyJ@bffyouth.org
Music is a connection, a message and a passion for Johnny Johnson. As the NEO Music Coordinator, Johnny offers free music classes and lessons for young people participating at the Youth Center. Johnny turned a former internship at Bright Futures for Youth through the Jobs Corps program into a permanent position – and a life-changing opportunity. “I love playing and writing music because it lets me turn thoughts and feelings into songs.” Some of those songs are favorites at the NEO Youth Center, where several hundred young people connect with Johnny every month. Johnny – who plays the guitar, bass and sings – attended a high school without a band class. But he would bring his guitar to school and play for fellow students and others passing by. Now, Johnny is a member of Neon Theory, a local band. “I love performing because I think it’s a really special feeling to share music with people in a live setting and feel the connection and energy between you and the crowd.”
Amy Kurtz
Kitchen Assistant Manager
amyk@bffyouth.org
“I have an amazing opportunity to combine my culinary background with an organization doing great work with youth in the community,” says Amy Kurtz, who joined Bright Futures for Youth as Assistant Kitchen Manager in2024. Amy believes good food has the “capacity for connection and camaraderie.” With hundreds of meals served every week at Bright Futures for Youth, healthy food has helped form many friendships, from grab-and-go snacks at the café at the NEO Youth Center to special holiday meals. Amy brings extensive experience to Bright Futures for Youth and its fast-growing kitchen program that provides hands-on training for interns and much-appreciated meals to hundreds of young people every week. “I want to make sure that our youth have access to nutritious food, and I’m proud to be able to offer organic, locally sourced ingredients as much as possible. I’m also excited to provide a nurturing environment for our interns to be able to learn and grow their job skills.” Amy was most recently a cook at Expanding Light at Ananda in Nevada City. She has also worked at the Esalen Institute in Big Sur, serving hundreds of diners every meal, and food-related positions in New Mexico and Pennsylvania. Away from work, she likes hiking in the mountains, listening to podcasts and hanging out with her daughter.
Peiya Liao
Data Admin & Technology Coordinator
peiyal@bffyouth.org
Peiya Liao served as Volunteer Coordinator for Bright Futures for Youth, which serves several hundred young people every week. From helping with enrollment coordination to providing administrative support for Bright Futures youth programs – The Friendship Club, NEO and SAFE –Peiya Lao ensured that young people had access to academic assistance, are fed healthy meals and are provided rides to attend our after-school programs, thanks to the hard work of several dozen volunteers. “I wanted to return to my passion of working with youth,” says Peiya, who joined the nonprofit in 2023. “Watching a child grow in confidence, pursue their interests and carve a path to becoming their own person is extremely rewarding to be a part of.” It’s a bit of a change for Peiya, most recently a Senior Specialist of Content for Viking, the international cruise line, where she edited marketing material – from shipboard signage to Viking TV – and managed culinary content, handling more than 500 recipes. She has also served as a business development manager and travel consultant during her more than 15-year career. “I am process driven and pay attention to detail,” says Peiya, who earned her bachelor’s degree in business management from the University of Queensland in Australia. In addition to learning more about Nevada County, she enjoys brunches, singing in the Music in the Mountains choir and working on creative projects.
Evan Nielsen
Volunteer Manager
evann@bffyouth.org
Evan Nielsen fostered relationships with young people in The Friendship Club as a Youth Development Coordinator for several years before being named Volunteer Manager at Bright Futures for Youth. She previously worked for the Center for the Arts as their bar manager, where she oversaw up to 40 volunteers at a time. Evan is a certified Doula, providing support and assistance before, during and after childbirth. Her experience working with youth includes serving as a child and adolescent equine riding instructor. She also has experience in the hospitality field. Evan received a California Institute of the Arts degree in Entertainment Technology and Post-production Editing from Santa Monica College.
Andrea Poulos
Case Manager, SAFE Program
andreap@bffyouth.org
Andrea Poulos brings almost a decade of social services experience to Bright Futures for Youth’s SAFE program, which helps provides vital services to young people experiencing homelessness. She joined the nonprofit to “use her lived experience to support and advocate for youth as they work towards stability and self-sufficiency.” Andrea is committed to helping people achieve better mental, physical and emotional health. She most recently worked for Nevada County Adult Services handling a variety of responsibilities, including case management support for Social Workers and Senior Outreach Nurses. As a Family Engagement Advocate at KidzKount, she identified needs of families and connected them to community resources. “I hope to raise awareness around the gap in shelter and housing options for youth and the need for affordable housing in our community,” says Andrea who earned an associate of arts degree in Behavioral and Social Science from Sierra College in Rocklin. When Andrea isn’t working, she enjoys reading, spending time outdoors and being with her husband, son and dogs.
Cassie Robertson
Community Outreach Manager
cassier@bffyouth.org
Cassie Robertson spent many years working in hospitality, moved to investment banking and most recently worked in operations at a boutique architecture firm in Portland, Ore. Cassie also lived in cities throughout the United States and abroad. She returned home to Nevada County in 2016 with a commitment to community, particularly the arts and arts education for young people. Cassie serves on the board of the Nevada County Arts Council. Cassie holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in French Literature from San Francisco State University.
Mielle Rose
Kitchen and Nutrition Program Manager
mieller@bffyouth.org
Healthy foods and nutritious meals are a lifelong passion for Mielle Rose, Kitchen and Nutrition Program Manager for Bright Futures for Youth. Mielle oversees a fast-growing program that serves hundreds of meals to young people every week at Bright Futures for Youth – and offers hands-on training for interns in the kitchen. The program ensures children and young adults have access to at least one healthy meal every weekday, while also serving as a working classroom for those looking at a career in the food industry. “It’s so important for kids to learn the elements of basic self-care to prepare for independence as they grow up, like how to plan for and prepare a nutritious, wholesome diet for themselves and their loved ones,” Mielle says. “I love to teach skills for home cooking as well as on-the-job training for interns looking to enter the hospitality industry.” Mielle, who joined Bright Futures for Youth in early 2024, is well known in the community. She was most recently the Chef and General Manager of Heartwood Eatery and Heartwood Annex in Nevada City, handling everything from day-to-day operations to developing menus and recipes for the restaurant. She is a former Farm to School Liaison for Sierra Harvest and Program Manager for Mountain Bounty Farm, overseeing 21 pickup sites for more than 700 members. Mielle also owns Piece of My Heart Kitchen, a catering business that serves healthy meals made from seasonal, organic ingredients for retreats and special events. Mielle, who started Piece of My Heart Kitchen in 2000, is also a food author, writing and self-publishing Piece of My Heart, which was also published as Veganish in 2011 by Viva Editions. Away from work and out of the kitchen, Mielle is an avid reader and loves to dance, and enjoys spending time in nature.
Cheryl Rubin
Strategic Communications Director
cherylr@bffyouth.org
With more than three decades of experience in marketing and public relations for nonprofits and private-sector organizations, Cheryl Rubin has been at the forefront as The Friendship Club evolved into Bright Futures for Youth. Cheryl joined Bright Futures for Youth (then The Friendship Club) in January 2019 and has helped the organization educate the community about its mission and the expansion of much-needed services. From being a critical team member on grant proposals to sharing the latest news about Bright Futures for Youth, Cheryl ensures clear and effective messaging related to Bright Futures for Youth. She works closely with community leaders, local media, Bright Futures for Youth Board members and staff. “Bright Futures for Youth is committed to building a better, stronger foundation for children and young adults in Nevada County, says Cheryl, who previously served as Chief Communications Officer for Western Sierra Medical Clinic, the largest outpatient health provider in Nevada County. “Our accomplishments and life-changing programs are stories that I enjoy sharing with the community. Bright Futures for Youth is a success story in so many ways.” Cheryl is the former Vice President of Communications for the California Forest Products Commission and The Forest Foundation in Sacramento, and Public Relations Director for The Heritage Foundation and United Way of America in Washington, D.C. Cheryl, who grew up in New York City and moved to Nevada County 25 years ago, earned a bachelor’s degree in Journalism with a minor in Political Science from the University of Georgia. She was honored as an Outstanding College Athlete of America and remains active in athletics, including serving as a tennis instructor and playing basketball. Cheryl serves on the Citizen’s Oversight Committee of the Nevada County Library and Sierra Nevada Memorial Hospital Community Engagement and Advisory Panel.
Craig Terry
Program Manager, NEO
craigt@bffyouth.org
Craig Terry knows the importance of connecting with and providing opportunities for youth, from impromptu performances to skills-training workshops. Craig, Program Manager for NEO, has been busy building and developing teams for almost a decade – as a team leader at one of the nation’s largest retailers to a manager for California Organics. He was most recently Prevention Coordinator for Community Beyond Violence. His extensive experience helps Craig develop educational and entertaining programs for youth, who will hopefully encourage others to attend and participate in NEO, especially with the new NEO Youth Center scheduled to open in late-summer 2023. “My goal is for everyone in the community to know who we are and what we do, and get as many youth as possible to come to NEO after school,” says Craig, who had been a NEO volunteer before later joining the program as a team member. Craig, who is studying Psychology at Sierra College in Grass Valley, enjoys playing and listening to music, adventures – from hikes to long walks – and playing video games.
Victoria Thomas
Case Manager II, SAFE Program
victoriat@bffyouth.org
Victoria Thomas is committed to the next generation – in her profession and at home. As a Case Manager for the SAFE program, she helps young people experiencing homelessness navigate an often confusing and daunting system, from ensuring safety-net services to getting them much-needed housing. Personally, Victoria and her husband provide a caring and loving home for foster children – eight children in two years. It’s a demanding but rewarding experience. “I have years of case management experience as well as years of experience in working with the vulnerable population in our county through foster care,” says Victoria, who graduated Summa Cum Laude from Arizona State University with a bachelor’s degree in Communications Disorders and Sciences. “I excel in communication and making connections, and I am excited to be able put those skills to use.” The SAFE program helps young people to apply for government programs, complete applications for college and financial aid, and makes sure they have access to everything from clothing and food to counseling and health care. “I am really looking forward to working with my team to reduce the rates of homelessness within our youth/transitional youth community,” said Victoria, who has lived in the community for more than 25 years and has seen the number of yong people experiencing homelessness increase. Before joining Bright Futures for Youth, Victoria was a Human Services Specialist/Child Support Case Manager for the County of Nevada, managing more than 350 cases. But after three years, she was “ready to move to a position that allowed me to be more involved in my community on a deeper level.” Away from work, Victoria enjoys concerts, reading, swimming and spending time with her family.
Jodeci “Jo” Watson
Peer Support Specialist, SAFE Program
jodeciw@bffyouth.org
As a frequent participant and volunteer of Bright Futures for Youth, Jodeci “Jo” Watson knows firsthand the impact of the organization and its three programs. Jo, Peer Support Specialist for the SAFE program, wants to “give back to those in need in the way Bright Futures for Youth has done for me.” As a Youth Advocacy Board member of Bright Futures for Youth, she has handled surveys for the SAFE program and organized the food and hygiene pantry for those experiencing homelessness. And she has assisted with the Veterans Banquet and in many other ways through The Friendship Club, which she was a part of as a student. Jo, who is attending Sierra College in Grass Valley, has real-life experience and shares a similar path with some children and young adults participating in Bright Futures for Youth’s programs. She brings “empathy and an understanding of those we are helping, causing more of a connection having that shared experience in some ways.” Jo is committed to helping young people experiencing homelessness in the SAFE program, but adds that Bright Futures for Youth’s three programs are about teamwork – and working together to help young people. In her free time, Jo enjoys arts and crafts, thrift shopping and nature hikes.
Desarae Welchel
Case Manager, SAFE Program
desaraew@bffyouth.org
Desarae Welchel brings almost a decade of case management and social services experience to Bright Futures for Youth’s SAFE program, which helps young people experiencing homelessness. She joined the nonprofit to “help young people thrive in the world and see their true potential,” says Desarae, who has been a Case Manager with SAFE since 2025. Desarae ensures that young people experiencing housing instability have access to a range of services, from clothing and healthy food to counseling and health care – and, of course, housing. “My background in case management has taught me how to create safe, trusting relationships, while also helping young people develop resiliency and self-sufficiency,” says Desarae, most recently a case manager and supervisor with Hospitality House in Grass Valley. Desarae, who earned an associate of arts degree in Psychology from Sierra College in Rocklin, has also served as a case manager for the Children’s Home & Family Resource Center in Sacramento and as a residential treatment facility manager for Charis Youth Center in Grass Valley. “Many young people face instability at home, in school and communities, and having a trusted mentor or advocate can make a huge difference” she says. “I strive to help youth build the confidence and skills needed to express their needs, access resources, set boundaries and take charge of their futures.” Away from work, Desarae enjoys roller skating and playing roller derby, a fast-moving and physical sport. “Roller derby is an incredible mix of strategy, athleticism and teamwork,” says Desarae, who also coaches her daughter’s roller derby team. In addition to roller derby, she frequently attends concerts, music festivals and visits art shows and thrift stores.