Townley Saye, Executive Director of First 5 Mendocino
I have walked many paths on my professional and personal journeys. I am fortunate to be a mother to many children, both biological and bonus. I have spent most of my life as a child and parent advocate in a variety of capacities including being a certified doula and birth educator, owning a local children’s store, and utilizing my education in social work to directly serve families and implement family friendly policies within state systems. Additionally, my certifications in The Positive Parenting Program (Triple P) and the Community Resilience Model (CRM) further aide my approach in addressing family and system issues through a strength-based, trauma- and resilience-informed lens.
Some of my favorite things in life include sunrises, a child’s laughter, walks on the beach, traveling with my partner, and a strong cup of coffee.
Bonnie Boek, Raise & Shine Program Director
Working at FIRST 5 MENDOCINO where I get to support children and their families brings me joy, satisfaction, and hope. Children are our future. Outside of work I spend my time with my children, creating art, and gardening.
Jade Aldrich, Community Navigator
I am a mother of four and raised my beautiful children on the coast of Mendocino without any immediate family. As a young mom feelings of isolation and overwhelm were constant, and I yearned for connection and guidance. I found a Triple P Positive Parenting Group and it changed my life by connecting me with others and teaching me skills to feel calm and confident in managing challenging behaviors. It has now been over a decade since I’ve been supporting other families as a Certified Doula, Childbirth Educator, Breastfeeding Peer Counselor & Triple P Facilitator who knows personally the importance of connection and support. Everyone needs it and I am passionate about making it available as part of a normal option for all parents and caregivers of children. Outside of work I love to play on our beaches and swim in our rivers.
Andres Alvarado, Bilingual Family Support Consultant
I’ve been with FIRST 5 MENDOCINO since February, 2017. I started by being an Americorp for 1 and a half years and became a full-time staff in August of 2018. I’m trained in Triple P, CRM, PIP, and Signs of Safety among other things. Being a resource for families and being able to help them achieve their goals is what I’m passionate about and is why I love to show up at work every day! In my free time, I like to play soccer and disc golf. I’m also a coach for Mendocino County Soccer Academy (MCSA). GO EAGLES!
Maria Fuentes, Bilingual Family Support Consultant
I am a mother of two who was introduced to FIRST 5 MENDOCINO when I was a first-time mom 8 years ago. I joined the team as an Americorps member where it ignited my passion to support children, parents, and caregivers. I am an accredited Triple P facilitator helping parents and caregivers navigate their journey in raising children with support, empathy, and a smile. One key moment that helped me as a first-time parent was knowing that I could ask for help to gain knowledge and information through FIRST 5. I am happy to now offer that same warm and inclusive service to families in Mendocino County. On my free time I like to care for my houseplants, go for walks, and spend time with my children.
Monica Galliani, Administrative Assistant
I began my career with FIRST 5 MENDOCINO in October, 2021 and am now returning to be a part of the wonderful Raise & Shine team. I am a graduate of the University of California, Santa Cruz with a degree in Legal Studies. It makes me feel fulfilled to help the community by being a resource to local families. Each day I enjoy greeting the people who come through our door. Some of my hobbies include weightlifting, hiking, and traveling with my family.
Sariah Neff, Early Literacy and Family Educator Specialist
I began working with FIRST 5 MENDOCINO as an intern during my undergrad career in 2022. I graduated from the University of Arizona with my bachelor’s in Public Health then came back to work with this amazing group of passionate, creative and driven individuals in 2023. After graduating, I officially joined the Raise & Shine team. I am also a holistic health counselor and massage therapist which allows me to have a unique lens when problem solving and offering support to families. I am trained in Triple P, HOPE, and Youth Mental Health First Aid. I believe everyone deserves to feel empowered about their choices, have allies to advocate for them, and a sense of belonging. When I am not working, I love to dance, be surrounded by nature, and spend quality time with my loved ones.
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