Meet Our Team, Partners & Sponsors
BOARD MEMBERS
Victoria Johannigman
she/her
Founder & Board Member
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When Victoria's partner John's siblings were in need of a stable and loving home, they became resource (foster) parents in order to be able to support them and help keep the family together. Through the journey of resource parenting, Victoria and John realized the lack of support and opportunities to connect with other families in their position. They set out to build a community to help kids, teenagers, and guardians through the unique ups and downs of foster care. And thus, Elysium Sanctuary was born!
Valerie Roberts
she/her
Board Member, Events & Programs
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When word about Elysium Sanctuary came out, Val didn't skip a beat in supporting the community in any way she could. As a former pre-school teacher, performing arts enthusiast, and proud mother of two, she knows just what it takes to put the fun in family. Whether it be a festival or a simple home-cooked meal, Val is all about bringing people together and helping us connect!
Rachel Palmer
she/her
Board Member & Administrator
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Having witnessed family members face hardships in the foster care system, Rachel wanted to help change things but wasn't sure how. She was thrilled to be invited to the Elysium Sanctuary team and now works to make sure that foster youth have the support and resources they need to lead fulfilling lives.
Ben Seward
he/him
Board Member
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As a third-culture kid (TCK) who grew up with a lot of transitions and changing variables, Ben relates to many struggles that foster children face. Ben is passionate about non-profit work, and excited about bringing his experience in higher education, life skills and marketing to help further Elysium's mission. Ben is motivated by empowering and equipping others to reach their higher potential, and is eager to help Elysium Sanctuary reach goals, grow rich community, and continue to make a lasting impact in the lives of foster families and children.
TEAM MEMBERS
Nasha Nunez
she/they
Financial Manager
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Nasha has worked in the non-profit sector for over ten years and was excited to join the Elysium community! Nasha's goals are to assist the organization's finances so that we can best support our foster families.
Ellis McAuley
she/her
Birthday & Family Supports Coordinator
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Ellis is a current high school student who has previously worked closely with youth as a summer camp counselor, classroom volunteer, and babysitter. Her experience helped her notice the immense importance of personalized attention to individual needs and interests during childhood, and has assisted her in developing an interest in ensuring every child is able to receive attentive care.
OUR PARTNERS & SPONSORS
OnPoint Community
Credit Union
A community-owned financial institution dedicated to building strong communities in Oregon through financial growth and well-being, has been one of the biggest sponsors of our Family Supports Program, particularly when it comes to funding foster birthdays and other special events!
Fire on the Mountain
Portland's own "Fire on the Mountain Buffalo Wings" restaurants have been a major sponsor for all of Elysium Sanctuary's programs. They have helped to fund birthday parties as well as a multitude of resources for foster families including school supplies, clothes, furniture, and care packages!
Together We Rise
An organization that provides people who cannot become resource (foster) parents a way to still help children in foster care, has partnered with us to offer clothing and other valuable supplies.
Bridge Meadows
Provides wrap-around community services to children impacted by foster care including affordable housing, mentors, and clinical staff that work together to leverage the power of community. They have provided guidance and mentorship to Elysium Sanctuary as we work to develop our own supportive community!
Jessica Duggan
A skilled baker who designs and donates the cakes for our foster youth birthdays and other special events. From "Frozen" to "sweet 16"- inspired desserts, Jessica has been kind enough to put our many requested themes to the test!
Individual Donors
Donations from individuals are a big contributor to our organization and help to make all of our servcies possible!