2022-2023 UWCC Officers
President: Kelsey Hix, AAA Oregon
I grew up sheltered in a large middle class family where my dad worked 7 days a week 364 days a year while my mom did everything in the house. I went into the adult world not knowing how to maintain an apartment, make proper meals, or really care for myself, let alone anything about the world. Because of that, I am trying to give back to the community now and help my children grow up with a better understanding of the world outside our own home.
Vice President: Rachel Schack, Development Director, Liberty Theatre Astoria
I grew up on the island of Oahu, Hawaii in Mililani Town. I’ve lived all over the United States and moved to Astoria in 2018. I have always had a deep passion for giving back and being involved and the sense of community, the beauty, and the people here on the North Coast have captured my heart and welcomed me with open arms like nowhere else. I feel especially passionate about working with social service agencies on outreach programs for the unhoused population (especially since COVID) and also working with children (I have worked as a teacher in the past). I hope to contribute what I can with the same love and compassion I’ve seen in the people of Clatsop County.
Jenni Pinkstaff, Treasurer
As a sixth generation Astorian who was born and raised here, I love a tremendous love for our community. I have also been on the board for the Scandinavian Midsummer Festival. It is important to me to show my daughter what giving to our community means. This is why I became part of the United Way.
2022-2023 Board of Directors
Katina Gasser, Tongue Point Job Corps Center
Cathy Jo Kirkpatrick, Alexandroff Dental, Independent Arbonne Consultant
I’ve greatly enjoyed volunteering in my community, starting at an early age. I do what I can to give back and serve others. Volunteering in schools and working in dental hygiene over the years, I’ve seen the effects of neglect, especially on children. My mission is to lock arms with others and offer hope, health, love, support and empower children, teens and adults to know they are deserving of love, proper nutrition, safety and break the cycle they may have been born into. Together we can live united and make a difference and create a ripple effect of change in the world.
Beverly Selga, Director Surgical Services, Columbia Memorial Hospital
I recently relocated to Astoria from the Seattle area to work at Columbia Memorial Hospital as the Director of Surgical Services. The mission, vision and values of CMH is what attracted me to the organization. I have been involved in non-profit work surrounding remedying food insecurity for the past 20 years, whether it was preparing nutritious meals for delivery, delivering meals to those in need or working with the local food pantry preparing and serving weekly hot dinners. Being a part of the CCUW is a great way to become involved in my new community and help to continue the good work that is made possible by supporting other non-profits on the North Coast.
Nathan Pinkstaff
I got involved in nonprofit work to help give back to the community that has given me so much. My family (two sons, a daughter and my wife) loves this area. This is home. I want to help preserve this place for generations to come.
Staff
Claire Catt: Interim Executive Director
Advisory Members
Jennifer Holen, Past Director / Advisor
Briana Smith, Events NW + Loft @ the Red Building
Cindy Johnson, US Bank
Kimberly Fitzwater, Food Services of America