Hi, my name is Jack. I was born and raised in Utah and began my undergraduate education at Augustana College in Illinois, where I competed as a collegiate cross country and track runner before transferring to Weber State University after a series of injuries, completing degrees in Political Science and History. Since age 18, I’ve worked with youth in a variety of roles, including supporting children in the child welfare system through nonprofits, managing summer camps, and most recently serving as a paralegal for private Guardian ad Litems in family law to better understand the legal side of child welfare and advocacy. In my free time, I enjoy running recreationally, occasionally racing, watching reality TV, and spending time with our four dogs.

Whitney is a passionate advocate for children and families in foster care with over a decade of experience! For the past four years, she has dedicated her skills to training foster parents, drawing on her own rich experience as a foster parent for nearly five years. This unique journey gives her a heartfelt and empathetic perspective that resonates with the families she serves.

When she's not at work, Whitney is busy at home with her four lively kids. She thrives on family adventures, enjoys playing sports, and being in the great outdoors. With Whitney, you can expect a blend of professionalism and warmth, making her a cherished partner in any foster care journey!

Coraidna holds a Bachelor of Arts in Social Work from California State University of Los Angeles. Shortly after graduating, Coraidna moved to Utah where she began working as a Social Service Worker for the Department of Child and Family Services. Mostly working with older youth and families experiencing crisis and in need of support to achieve stability and permanency. Her experience has extended to working closely with law enforcement as a Mental Health Advocate for the patrol division. Coraidna believes that an individual’s environment strongly shapes their experiences and outcomes. Committed to advocacy and in her new role as Youth Connections Advocate, Coraidna hopes to empower the youth that she works with at Raise the Future to help them build or strengthen their “village”.

Outside of work, Coraidna enjoys going to the gym, watching documentaries, self-care, trying new recipes, and spending time with her loved ones.

Kari graduated from Brandman University with a bachelor's degree in Social Work. Kari got her start in child welfare working for the Department of Children and Families in Florida as a Dependency Case Manager, before finding her true passion assisting with adoptions as an Adoption Specialist. As a Youth Connections Advocate, Kari enjoys getting to know the youth on her case load. Every connection she finds for her kids reminds her how important the work Raise the Future is. Kari was born in Texas but grew up in Florida and the Dominican Republic, and is happy to call Utah home now! In her free time she enjoys playing with her dogs, watching true crime documentaries, and playing cozy games on her PlayStation.

With nearly two decades of experience in behavioral health and family support services, Rebecca brings a unique blend of clinical expertise, program leadership, and lived experience to her role as Director of Family Support at Raise the Future. Her career has spanned therapeutic foster care, clinical supervision, and program development, each rooted in her commitment to supporting families and building stronger communities.

As a former therapeutic foster parent, Rebecca brings both personal and professional insight to her work, bridging clinical best practices with real-world empathy. She’s provided expert testimony in both guardianship and civil commitment proceedings, supervised clinical teams, and led initiatives grounded in evidence-based care and inclusive family support.

Outside of work, she enjoys reading, baking, and exploring pottery as a creative outlet. Most of all, she cherishes time with her children and grandchildren, who remain her greatest inspiration and joy.

Hi I’m Jessica and I’m excited to be part of the Raise the Future team! I graduated from the University of Utah as a double major in Psychology and Family and Human Studies. For the past 12 years I’ve been working with children and families in a variety of roles from paraprofessional, preschool teacher to mentor. I’m very passionate about advocating for youth and supporting long-term, meaningful relationships that help children thrive. On my spare time I love spending time with my boyfriend and our 4 dogs, listening to Taylor Swift and reading.

Originally born and raised in Utah, I have dedicated the last 30 years to the behavioral and mental health field. My career has spanned various settings, where I've held multiple administrative positions. I've had the privilege of working with youth from all over the United States, with a particular focus on Utah, Idaho, Nevada, Hawaii, Wyoming, South Dakota, and California. I'm also well-versed in DCFS processes and practices.

Outside of work, I love spending time with my family. I'm married and have an 11-year-old daughter. We enjoy being outdoors, whether we're camping, fly fishing, or playing and coaching softball.

I am extremely excited to be a part of Raise the Future team!!

Annie is originally from Los Angeles, California, and grew up in Utah County. She earned her bachelor's degrees in Criminology and Sociology from the University of Utah, where she also recently completed her Master of Science in Human Development & Social Policy. Annie’s passion for supporting youth began during her time with Salt Lake Peer Court as an undergraduate student and deepened while working as a Youth Development Specialist for Juvenile Justice and Youth Services (JJYS). In her free time, she enjoys scrapbooking, collecting trinkets, reading, and spending time outdoors.

My name is Ashley and I am super excited to be joining the Raise the Future team. Years ago, I stepped into the world of social work with nervous hands and a determined heart. Since then, I've worked at a foster care agency where every day is about making small, meaningful changes in the lives of children and families.

I assisted with Child and Family Team Meetings- spaces where hard conversations happen and futures begin to take shape. I've worked closely on representative payee services, DSPD coordination, and PCSP certifications, ensuring the right supports are in place for those who needed them most. I have recently moved my work over to Raise The Future to further my knowledge and growth as the Resource Coordinator.

Outside of work I am a mother to 1 daughter and have a multi-cultural family. I love the ocean, watching some reality TV and enjoying a Diet Dr. Pepper. I'm an avid amazon shopper and love to walk around the neighborhood and go to the park with my family.

Aria holds a Bachelor of Music and a Master of Public Administration from Southern Utah University and has dedicated her career to serving communities in need. With extensive experience in the non-profit sector, she has worked with food banks, domestic violence shelters, and social service organizations. She also spent time with Child and Family Services in Montana, advocating for children and families.

As an alumni advocate for AdoptUSKids, Aria has used her voice on a national stage, speaking for the Children's Bureau to advocate for the rights of older youth in foster care. Passionate about empowering young people, she is committed to ensuring they feel heard and valued in decisions that shape their lives. She also believes that all children deserve loving, kind adults in their lives and she hopes to be that for the youth she works with. When not at work, Aria is usually throwing the ball for her dog Dani and petting her dog Jack (He's lazy). She enjoys being outdoors when it's warm, finding new places to eat, and playing her tuba or bass guitar!

Anna Roth recently graduated from Brigham Young University, earning a public relations degree. Originally from Boise, Idaho, she brings a fresh perspective and a strong passion for effective communication. Her previous work for communication agencies has allowed her to help develop effective messaging strategies for nonprofits. Anna loves Raise the Future and the positive impact the organization makes in people’s lives. In her free time, Anna loves to travel, attend concerts, and try new restaurants.

Diann Shields earned her bachelor’s degree in Marriage and Family Studies with an emphasis in child advocacy from Brigham Young University-Idaho. Diann is the mom to six daughters, two of whom were adopted, and Nana to 15 grandkids. As an adoptive mom herself she brings both professional insight and personal empathy to her work. She is passionate about families and has the belief that every child deserves to be loved and adored. As a Family Support Practitioner Diann loves working with families to help ensure a successful transition from foster care to adoption. Diann was born in Utah but has lived in Minnesota, Colorado, Oklahoma, Washington State and Alabama. Outside of work Diann loves to spend time with her family, traveling, watching football, listening to crime podcasts, attending concerts, plays and movies, all with a cold diet coke in hand.

Sydnie graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in Psychology and a minor in Family Studies. Following college, Sydnie worked as a caseworker for the Division of Child and Family Services for 5 years where she gained a passion for working with children in the foster care system. After changing roles to a foster parent recruiter working for another non-profit organization, Sydnie missed working hands-on with the children she was recruiting for and found herself applying to be a Youth Connections Advocate for Raise the Future, where she could continue her work in building connections with youth in the foster care system and finding them permanency and life-long supports. Outside of work, Sydnie loves to be outside, playing pickleball, fishing, camping, and will typically have her kindle and a Dr. Pepper in hand.

MaryKate is originally from Tennessee and graduated from Union University with a bachelor’s degree in social work. While earning her degree, she worked as a residential mentor for teenage girls in a treatment center. After that, she spent over a year working in after-school programs, then several months in the education system. MaryKate is passionate about advocating for others, particularly in the child welfare field. In her role as Family Connections Coordinator, she conducts family searches in order to build a network of support for youth in care. In her free time, MaryKate enjoys hiking, ultimate frisbee, crocheting, piano, and spending time with friends and family!

Meet Sarah, a dedicated and passionate student at Brigham Young University, where she is studying Family Life. As a TBRI Practitioner and a fellow adoptee, Sarah has an incredible drive to help youth and families feel connected. She has spent the last 6 years working directly with children in Professional Proctor Homes, and has also dedicated 4 years of her time to being a foster home for youth of all ages. Recently, Sarah has moved her work over to Raise The Future to further her opportunity to work in home with families and youth. Apart from her professional achievements, Sarah is a loving mother to 4 young children of her own and has a multi-cultural family. When she is not listening to Taylor Swift or adding to her Amazon cart, you can find her pouring up a cold Diet Coke, Kindle in hand, enjoying the local playground with her family, or strolling the Target aisles.

Lily graduated from Dixie State University with her bachelor’s degree in marketing. She is the marketing and communications coordinator here at Raise the Future helping spread awareness about our organization. While getting her degree she worked with many different types of non-profits but the one thing she loved about them - is getting the opportunity to be a part of something meaningful. Although she doesn't work with youth and families directly, she loves being able to share their stories. Outside of work Lily enjoys going to the gym, playing sports, spending time with her family, and watching anime. Lily is also fluent in Spanish!

Shelby is originally from Oregon and graduated with her B.S. in Human Service from Southern Oregon University. While earning her degree, she was a volunteer director for her local Royal Family Kids mentoring program. After she graduated, she transitioned into the child welfare field as a reunification and permanency caseworker with the Dept. of Human Services. This experience sparked Shelby’s interest in practical trauma intervention, and she decided to earn her M.S. in Developmental Trauma from Texas Christian University. There she became a TBRI® practitioner with the hopes of eventually providing coaching and consultation with child welfare families and professionals. She is thankful for the privilege of sharing glimpses of hope and healing with the families she works with. Shelby recently transplanted to Utah and has enjoyed paddleboarding, hiking, and exploring all the beauty this state has to offer!

Amie has been a junior high classroom teacher for over 25 years in Davis School District. She has taught social studies and occasionally a few science courses. She earned her BA from Weber State in History with a teaching certificate. She eventually went on to get her Utah Social Studies Composite endorsement and a MEd in curriculum design and assessment from Weber State. In 2010 she decided to give the foster care world a try. She fostered 6 kids. Adopted 4 of them and is now a proud grandma to 5. While in the foster care world, she learned the importance of understanding trauma. She started using TBRI with her own children but realized it was a major tool for the classroom as well. She spent the next few years deciphering how to use TBRI in the classroom as well as the home. She became a TBRI Practitioner in May of 2023 and now along with working in her classroom, she now works with Raise the Future to help other educators adopt TBRI in a practical way in the classroom.

Eryn is a current student at Weber State University earning her bachelor’s degree in Family Studies. Before joining Raise the Future, Eryn worked at DCFS for three years as an Adoption Case Manager, helping and supporting families before and after adopting through foster care. Eryn’s favorite part about working for Raise the future is connecting and interacting with youth and being part of a team that creates hope! Outside of work Eryn enjoys spending time with her husband and children, watching her daughter splay sports, reading, and watching movies, and loves to travel!

Rylee graduated for Utah State University with a bachelor's degree in Social Work. While earning her degree, she worked in a children's shelter and interned in juvenile probation in a rural area of Utah. Rylee managed a family support center in Logan, UT and ran the adoption respite program for foster and adoptive families there. After graduating, Rylee spent a year as a caseworker for the Utah Division of Child and Family Services before coming to Raise the Future. Outside of work, Rylee is an avid runner and enjoys training for races. She can often be found backpacking, four wheeling, and listening to true crime podcasts. Rylee is married to her high school sweetheart, and they love to go on road trips together.

Kendra holds a bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Science with an emphasis in Social Work. Before joining Raise the Future, she served as a Foster Care Program Manager with the Division of Child and Family Services, where she developed a strong passion for adoption and supporting children in foster care. She went on to serve as a Youth Connections Advocate for four years, finding deep fulfillment in helping youth and families build meaningful, lasting relationships. Following that role, Kendra became a Youth Connections Manager, where she spent several years leading and mentoring advocates, empowering them to bring hope and connection to youth navigating the foster care system.

Outside of work, Kendra enjoys traveling, seeking out new adventures, and spending time in the great outdoors—especially camping and hiking. She also loves game nights with friends and baking chocolate chip cookies. Most of all, she treasures time with her husband and their children.

Brandie Naylor serves as the Vice President of Utah Programs at Raise the Future. She started her journey at Raise the Future 11 years ago as a Youth Connections Advocate and later as a Family Support Director before becoming the VP. She graduated from Utah State University with her MSW & then CSW. She has been working in child welfare for 30 years. She has been employed at residential treatment facilities, assisted in the classroom and counseling offices for the Ogden Utah School District and Maui Hawaii School District. She was also employed with the State of Utah Division of Child & Family Services at The Christmas Box House children's shelters, with Child Protective Services, and Juvenile Justice Services. Brandie has also worked with at-risk children in Oregon and with the Tlingit and Haida Tribes in Alaska.

Brandie is trained by the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development as a Trust-Based Relational Intervention® (TBRI®) Practitioner and frequently provides training on this model to parents and professionals. With her experience in foster care and adoption she is frequently providing training, clinical support, and resources to families giving her insight and knowledge into the trauma-informed and attachment-based modalities that can support individuals seeking healthy relationships. In her free time, Brandie enjoys spending time with her three young adult children, traveling, watching reality TV shows, and going on road trips with her husband.

Lindsay Kaeding serves as the Vice President of Development for Raise the Future. In this role, she is responsible for overseeing fundraising and marketing efforts to support the organization's growth and strategic partnerships. Before her current position, Lindsay held the role of Director of Donor Relations and Communications, where she established strong relationships that resulted in Raise the Future being selected as the beneficiary of the 2023 NBA All-Star game.

With over two decades of experience at Raise the Future, Lindsay has worked closely with donors, volunteers, legislators, state and business leaders, industry officials, and foundations nationwide. Her focus has been on connecting youth in foster care with caring adults. Lindsay's passion for youth and family success stems from her family background in adoption and her belief in the importance of supportive relationships for all children.