Krista was born and raised in Southern Oregon within a community of nonprofit and school-based advocates supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Early exposure to this work shaped their commitment to the values of independence, inclusion, and access.

After receiving a Bachelor’s in Social Work at the University of Montana, and later a Master’s in Education, they spent a decade living and working in Southeast Asia, advocating for access and education among marginalized populations.

After returning to Southern Oregon in 2019, they began working as a children’s Services Coordinator with Jackson County Developmental Disability Services, gaining deeper insight into the challenges families face in securing meaningful support and inclusion. They are committed to continuing efforts to reduce barriers and strengthen community access.

Misty, born and raised in Southern Oregon, began her journey with The Arc Jackson County in 2017 as an employee of our Thrift Store. She worked as a cashier/ donation sorter until March of 2020, when we decided to close our thrift store permanently.

Since then, Misty has transitioned to working as our administrative assitant. When she is not working, she enjoys listening to music, reading and spending time with her friends and family.

As a self-advocate for disability rights, it is important to Misty that people treat her like the independant and hard working individual she is. She enjoys working with an organization that makes a difference in the community as well as in her personal life.

Born and raised in Medford and now raising the next generation of Southern Oregonians, Danielle has deep roots in this community. She has been fiercely passionate and dedicated to supporting adults and children who experience IDD (and their families) for over 15 years.

She has a B.A. in Social Sciences from Western Oregon University, and an OIS Master Trainer. She sits on the Jackson County Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities Advisory Committee.

Her professional and personal experiences give her a unique ability to connect with all members of this community to create true partnerships. Danielle’s drive to continue to transcend into different areas of support and gain an understanding of how to support families and individuals to achieve a whole life makes her a unique support within her community.  She believes that a welcoming community is a strong community and encourages thinking outside of the box to move around barriers in order to create these connections. 

She is excited to move The Arc Jackson County forward in their community projects and develop new ways to provide opportunities for us all to come together.

While not at The Arc, Danielle can often be found walking along a mountain, floating in a lake or dipping her toes in the ocean with her family and dogs. Say hi if you see her around and join the fun!

Miriam was raised in Southern Oregon and born in Jalisco, Mexico. Her life experiences have shaped a strong commitment to human rights advocacy. She previously worked as an immigration paralegal, supporting families in crisis by connecting them to immigration, domestic violence, and eviction resources within the community.

In 2019, she joined Jackson County Developmental Disability Services, where she gained insight into the opportunities and challenges faced by individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. Inspired by this work, Miriam is happy to advocate with The Arc Jackson County. Her bicultural perspective and bilingual proficiency in English and Spanish enable her to effectively support community members in accessing essential resources.

Caitlyn came to Southern Oregon in 2011. She attended North Medford High School and chose to volunteer for the Down Syndrome Association for her senior project. However, her volunteer work did not stop once her senior project ended – she continued to help with Night to Shine, the
book club, Read About Me program, etc.

Volunteering for this organization inspired her to continue her education. She obtained her Bachelor’s in Psychology and her Master’s in Human Development and Family Studies. She looks forward to dedicating more of her time to helping those who experience I/DD and their families.

When she is not working, she enjoys spending time with her family and friends, taking a walk outdoors, or chasing the ocean.

Ava is originally from San Francisco, but has quickly fallen in love with life in the Rogue Valley. She has extensive experience supporting the IDD community, having worked as both a Direct Support Professional and a Case Manager.  Ava is deeply passionate about helping individuals and families navigate the housing process to find safe, welcoming places to call home. Ava is honored to be part of The Arc Jackson County team and looks forward to assisting the local community.

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her partner and dog, hitting the slopes for winter skiing adventures, and relaxing by lakes in the summer!