Friends of the Children announces new staff
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The following is a press release from Friends of the Children
Klamath Falls, Ore. — Friends of the Children of the Klamath Basin recently welcomed two new staff members as professional mentors, or “Friends.”
Naomi McCleve (submitted photo)
Naomi McCleve
Naomi grew up in Portland and chose Klamath Falls as the “perfect fit” to raise her own family. Prior to Friends, Naomi worked in the Goals/Bridges classroom at Klamath Union High School, where she loved helping teens with special needs become successful. “As a Friend, I get to support kids in their hopes and dreams K-12 instead of just a handful of years,” she said. “I think every kid needs someone who cares that isn't family. I was lucky enough to have a few of those when I was a kid and truly look forward to being that for others.”
Kara Ranger (submitted photo)
Kara Ranger
Kara grew up in Klamath Falls, where she has been working with youth since 2015. Previous to Friends, her most fulfilling work was in behavior intervention at Conger Elementary School. “I care deeply for this community and believe working on behalf of and with youth to disrupt inequity and foster resilience is paramount to success.”
Presently doing a lot of “distanced” mentoring, including virtual game nights and Lego clubs, Kara and Naomi also may be spotted around town taking masked walks and playing games outdoors. Both look forward to spending time with youth in the Friends clubhouse and in school classrooms when COVID spread slows down.
Celebrating its 21st year in Klamath Falls, Friends of the Children is part of a national nonprofit working to impact generational change by providing 12+ years of professional mentoring to youth facing the greatest obstacles. The chapter will serve 51 youth this year.