Our Staff

Livia joined Y.E.S. as the Executive Director in January 2022. For over a decade, Livia has been an advocate for youth, families, and programs that promote positive development opportunities for youth; especially those with limited support networks or barriers to access. When not working, she loves outdoor activities and going on adventures with her family.

Mary joined YES in April 2024 the new Program Development Director and was promoted to Associate Director in July 2025. She has lived in the Gorge area for about eight years but is originally from Upstate NY. Mary has a master’s degree in social work and has worked with young people in different capacities for over ten years.

Sarah works as the Shelter Manager for the YES House. Sarah has worked with teenagers and their families in various capacities for the past 10+ years. She is trained in family mediation services and is excited to continue to learn new skills and develop her social services experience while continuing to help youth and families in need.

Karrie joined YES in August 2019.  She was originally hired as a program development specialist and transitioned into her current role as House Parent in 2020. Karrie was born in Lewiston, Idaho, but has lived all over the United States throughout her life. Karrie now lives in The Dalles with her husband, Aaron.

Marco joined YES in September 2025 as the new Program Manager. He is a 54-year-old German immigrant. He is married to his wife, Rebeccah, who is the reason he came to the US. They have a 16-year-old daughter, who is their everything. After I graduated from Highschool in East Germany, I completed a two year apprenticeship as a Farmer Equipment Mechanic. At the same time, large protests had erupted in our country.

Jennifer Noel joined YES in February 2024 as the Administrative Coordinator and has since been promoted to Office Manager. Jennifer has twenty years of administrative experience with six of those specifically with nonprofits. Jennifer is passionate about communication, authenticity, being a helper, self-reflection, spirituality, psychology, neuroscience, herbalism, and the arts.

Lyn was born and raised in Oregon. During high school she worked for her father’s construction company then processed commercial loans for a major bank. She graduated from Concorde Career College as a Medical Assistant going to work as a Phlebotomist/Health Technician after completing a preanalytical course working in urgent care for various doctors and clinics.

Tev Smith joined YES in December 2024 as a Float Staff and is now supporting our programs as a Youth Advisor as well as some IT support. He has been a Direct Support Provider for nearly ten years working with individuals with learning and developmental challenges and assisted in setting up a DSP agency. Tev loves encouraging people to pursue their artistic interests.

Kaden joined YES as a Youth Advisor at the YES House in June 2025. He is passionate about empowering and supporting young people through mentorship and care. Kaden’s background includes years of experience working with youth in educational settings as well as through volunteer opportunities. He strives to create a safe, encouraging environment where young people can grow, build resilience, and discover their potential. 

Rebekah joined YES in January 2026 and was promoted from Youth Advisor to Case Manager, bringing a strong passion for supporting at-risk youth and helping young people thrive. She was raised in The Dalles community and has experience working with youth in a variety of settings. After traveling throughout the United States, Rebekah chose to return and settle back in the community that helped shape who she is, where she’s committed to giving back and supporting the next generation.

Avagale is passionate about working with youth and creating a safe, supportive environment where they can be themselves. She values connection and encourages growth through understanding and consistency. She is also involved in real estate and is passionate about helping people find a sense of home and stability. In her free time, she enjoys being with her kids and getting outside.

Julian joined YES in 2026 as a Youth Advisor. He was born in Hood River and moved to The Dalles when he was 5 years old. His mom was born in Mexico and his dad was born in Guatemala. Julian has had the privilege of meeting both sides of his family. Julian is currently going to college at Columbia Gorge Community College (CGCC) to get his transfer degree in Business Management. He is hoping to attend a 4 year college in the future to get his Bachelor’s degree.

Jesse joined Y.E.S. in March 2022 as one of our Youth Advisors. Originally from Florida and later living in Idaho, Jesse ended up moving to Oregon in 2020 when he married his amazing wife. Since then, he has enjoyed getting to know new people and the community, growing his circle of friends, and finding support from his family, church community, and the Y.E.S. team.

Lisa works as our Account Administrator and has been working for YES since July 2020. She grew up in Newberg, Oregon and later moved to the Gorge to live closer to her family. Lisa has a background in computer software and technical/administrative support, but has always known that she wanted to work in a place that supports youth in difficult situations.

Jamie joined YES in Sept 2023. After spending the winter months in New Orleans representing YES remotely, he returned in the spring of 2024 as our newly minted Youth Engagement Coordinator and has now transitioned into a float staff. Jamie grew up in the Seattle area and has since built strong ties here in the Gorge region. Jamie brings fun, passion, and amazing engagement skills to our team.