Kellie Dean, Executive Director
(she/her)
Kellie is new to working in the non-profit sector. She has worked in the larger corporate world and has been with YES for a little over 2 years as the Executive Assistant to the Executive Director, Sarah Phillips.
Kellie is no stranger, however, to the struggles of homelessness, having been homeless with her young son while living in Seattle.
“I never thought I would join the world of non-profit work, but now realize this is where I am meant to be. I have been on the streets myself with my 3 month old son, but I lived in a big city where help was available on almost ever corner. Coming to a rural community has truly opened my eyes to the reality that homelessness is just as big of an issue here as it is in large cities. Now we just need to help others see that homelessness, hunger and mental illness do exist in tiny towns.”
Kellie comes from a corporate background with 23 years working with numbers. With a degree in accounting, her great skills are an amazing asset to YES. She helps build budgets for any and all financial assets; grants, donations, etc. She watches every dollar and makes sure the guidelines of each funding source are being complied with.
“Working for a non-profit has really opened my eyes to some issues I was blind to. Working alongside the LGBTQ+ community has been a wonderful addition to my knowledge base. My experience at YES has helped my learn about the importance of grants and grant writing. YES depends heavily on these funding sources keep our doors open for young people in need.”
Sarah Phillips, Grant Administrator
(she/her)
Sarah has worked in non-profits as line staff, management and administration, for almost 40 years, serving people who have been systematically marginalized by larger society. Families with children experiencing homelessness; adults living in missions or on the street; people with chronic mental illness; adults and elders with acquired or developmental disabilities; people of color; the LGBTQ community and youth and young adults experiencing homelessness.
DeeAnna Orre, Advocate
(she/her)
DeeAnna Orre is an Advocate at YES (Youth Emergency Services) of Pend Oreille County. Her job revolves around connecting youth and young adults of at-risk marginalized communities with a wide variety of resources involving housing stability, gender affirming care, and mental health amongst others. DeeAnna is also a board member of the Washington State Youth for Youth Board where she works to create better equitable services across the state.
DeeAnna has dedicated her time to changing the systems that also held her back as a young queer adult. She works every day to create a better environment for everyone where they can feel safe, respected, and heard. DeeAnna is strong-headed and stubborn in the face of adversity but still maintains a positive and helpful outlook to support youth and young adults.
Nikki Oss, Advocate
(she/her)
Nikki is a graduate from Lewis-Clark State College and came to us as an intern. She now has a bachelor’s degree in social work and is an advocate at YES.
Nikki loves animals and has a small hobby farm where she spends a lot of time with her dogs, cat, pig, goats, and chickens.
Nikki has lived experience which gives her insight into the struggles that many people face today. Through these experiences she found a passion for working with vulnerable, at-risk, and underrepresented populations. She has a strong desire to advocate for social justice and honors each individual’s self-determination.
Hailey Walker, Advocate
(she/her)
Hailey Walker-Owen recently moved back to Newport after living in Pullman for the last five years. For the last two years, she served as a family advocate and found that it is her passion to help those in need and provide a safe space full of understanding and guidance. She is excited to start this new journey as an Advocate for YES of Pend Oreille County!
Tuere Cunningham
(she/her)
Tuere is the Youth Lead for the Green Region and a senior student at Washington State University, set to graduate with a bachelor’s degree in Art. Passionate about addressing homelessness among youth and young adults, Tuere leverages her artistic talents and leadership skills to create meaningful change in their community. She is dedicated to providing resources, support, and opportunities to empower young individuals, ensuring they have the tools and guidance needed to thrive.
Flaviana Stuzman, Office Assistant
(she/her)
Flavi has been working at YES every summer since 2021. She helps with tasks around the office as well as advises staff on social media. Flavi is a senior in high school and hopes to be either an adoption specialist or a wedding planner. She hopes to pursue a degree in social work or a degree in communications at George Fox University.
“Being at YES these past few summers has provided me with insight into the specific path of social work I wish to do. It has also shown me that sometimes, even people you know can be facing hardships not known to you.”
Cody Maglinti, Resource Navigator
(he/him)
Cody is a Psychology student at Washington State University, minoring in Human Development & Criminology. He is from Oahu, Hawaii and has been in the PNW for six years. He has worked in the hospitality field and as an Orientation Counselor at WSU, spending time working with students to provide a safe and welcoming experience to incoming freshman.As a part of the LGTBQIA+ community, he brings an important voice for this community.
He is excited about the Resource Navigator position at YES – Youth Homelessness Demonstration Program because of his passion for leadership, providing guidance & ethical assistance in the lives and efforts of those in need.
Thumbalina, Office Assistant
Thumbelina is one of the new cuddle bugs in the Drop-in Center. She loves toilet paper, boxes and bags of all kinds. Her particular talent is comforting people who are feeling sad or anxious We are so glad she chose us!
Bagheera, Official Cuddler
Bagheera came to YES with Thumbelina from the Priest River Animal Shelter. He is a loving kitty with a huge purr. He loves rides in the food wagon, laying on shoulders and chasing his toys. He is delightful, funny and smart. Another win for all us at the Center.
