STAFF & BOARD

Our Staff

Jackie Yates

Executive Director

Building strong working relationships with local businesses, non-profits, and service providers, working with Ketchikan youth groups/activities, and continuing to make positive and engaging personal community connections is a driving force for the work I do. Born and raised in Ketchikan, I have solid ties to our community and want this to be a safe and healthy place that my husband, Daniel and I can raise our two beautiful daughters, Alyssa and Arianna.

For more that 15 years, I have worked in the criminal justice field, most recently as an Adult Probation Officer. In addition, I also own and operate my own event planning business and have served as the PTA co-president at Houghtaling Elementary for 5 years. My experience in human relations, supervision, and addressing mental health, substance misuse, and re-entry challenges are tremendous assets I want to highlight as the Executive Director of Ketchikan Wellness Coalition. My door is open to have both the tough and the lively conversations about our community. We are a phone call, email, or coffee away from making an impact.

Alma Manabat Parker

Health Equity Program Director

I am a sun-loving traveler, rom-com watching fanatic, high functioning multi-tasker, who loves event planning & promotion, crazy dancing with kiddos and fabulously fun friendships.

Born in the Philippines, raised in the rain forest, I have called Ketchikan my home for 40+ years. Working in a position of helping, promoting, and supporting health and wellness for the mind, body and soul is a perfect fit for me!

I am the wife of a retired USMC 1^st Sergeant, a mother of two, eldest (and only) sister to two brothers, dance coach to many….and loving them is like food to my soul!

Lisa DeLaet

Crisis Now Community Director

My family and I are happy to be living in Ketchikan for the third time since 2008. With my husband in the US Coast Guard, we’ve moved around the country and keep coming back to Ketchikan. We love this community, the rain, and all that is Alaska. I was born and raised in Minnesota, served in the US Coast Guard for 11 years, and I hold a master’s degree in psychology. I’ve enjoyed working in community mental health and medical centers helping people in time of need.

Tara Taro

Drug Free Communities Program Director

I am a third generation Ketchikan resident, born and raised in this rainforest. Whether in the forest, on the ocean, or watching the rain fall under a blanket with a cup of tea and a good book, there is nowhere else I would rather live than on this wet, beautiful island. I am a mama to two beautiful, wild Alaskan children and an aunt to several more. In my spare time I enjoy playing with my kids, practicing yoga, meditating, snuggling my cat with a good book, or rooting around in my garden and greenhouse. I am a lover of nature, a believer of magic, and a mindfulness seeker.

I own Mother Spirit Wellness as a certified meditation guide and life coach focusing on wellness and spirituality with a passion for helping people tap into their healing and finding inner peace. I am excited to start this new venture with the Wellness Coalition to continue to play a role in enhancing wellness in the community I was raised in and to contribute to the health and stability of the community my children will be raised in.

Stephanie Brissette

Behavioral Health Program Director

Living in Ketchikan is unlike other communities; you are not just a number here-you are seen, heard, and supported. The outdoor lifestyle is food for the soul. I love to travel and see the world, but I always know where home is.

I am excited to be part of the Ketchikan Wellness Coalition team and play a role in its ever-growing community wellness efforts. I want my family and community to continue to flourish, grow, and make Ketchikan the place we choose to live.

Drew Herby

Reentry Program Coordinator

I am a transplant to Ketchikan, after growing up in Wasilla. I am a recovering addict that wants to dedicate my time, love, and support to people overcoming obstacles. I am a mother of five wonderful daughters and happily married to my biggest supporter. Much of my work experience is around helping others; from customer service to being a personal care assistant for the disabled, I find purpose in this compassionate work. I love the outdoors with my family, participating in sober events and finding beach glass. I look forward to making recovery an achievable goal and giving back the support that was so freely given to me.

Erica Feldmann

KWC Logistics Coordinator

My family moved around the world while my dad was in the military and settled in Anchorage, Alaska where I lived for over twenty years. After high school my husband and I moved to Fairbanks, where we lived for three years. We had a great opportunity to move to Ketchikan two years ago. I love exploring all the different places that make up Alaska. When I’m not working, you will find me running my photography business, Arctic Aperture Photography or doing anything outdoors including being up in the mountains, running, scuba diving and traveling the world.

I joined the Ketchikan Wellness Coalition because of my passion for helping the community. I am also a board member of the First City Council on Cancer. I am excited to being a member of a team with the same goals of wanting to better the place we love to live!

Erin Traudt

Partners for Success Prevention Program Director

If I am not cheering on my two children with their activities or walking my wily rescue dog, you will find me working towards improving the health and wellbeing of our community. My experience as a National Board-Certified Health and Wellness Coach supports my desire to help people with preventing and reducing chronic disease and ensuring that we have the quality of life we all deserve. Working in the individual prevention realm led me to KWC and expanded my idea of what prevention can be. I am excited to join the team at Ketchikan Wellness Coalition in my new role as the Program Director for the Strategic Prevention Framework- Partners for Success grant.

I enjoy hiking, traveling, and walking my dog. I see Ketchikan as the place I choose to live in with my husband and two children. As a longtime resident of Ketchikan, born and raised, I thrive in spaces that allow me to share varying points of view to create opportunities for dialogue. I believe that KWC is the work environment that creates this space and I invite you to come and learn more about me and our new program.

JD Martin

Data Analyst

Moving from the rocky mountains of the US Southwest region to the rainforest of Southeast Alaska in 2017 was only meant to be a one-year adventure. Seven years later, I have fallen in love with the community that I now call it HOME. The work I embrace is one that involves making Ketchikan a strong, inclusive, and thriving community. Ketchikan Wellness Coalition is the perfect match for community change and involvement! My passion for prevention work with youth and bringing visibility and support to the local queer community is an additional asset to the KWC team. After hours, I enjoy spending time with friends and taking my beloved dog Kostas for walks.

My new position as the Data Analyst will further enhance my skills as I work towards my master’s in Psychology. It is important that we further understand the prevention framework to ensure that Ketchikan remains a safe and vibrant place for all, especially our youth.

Ben Holzmeister

Icelandic Prevention Model Program Coordinator

Exploring new beaches and campsites, building forts in our natural habitat, and filling our freezers with what the ocean and forests provide, are the perfect ways to spend my days with my wife and two children. This is easily accomplished in this wonderful community that I get to call home!

My passion is to help the younger generation have the best chance for success. I joined the Ketchikan Wellness Coalition so I can dedicate my experience and time to affect a positive change in the spaces we all love and share. I have a strong passion for prevention model implementation, and I am so excited to be working with the community to build the Icelandic Prevention Model, with the goal of reducing substance misuse in critical developmental stages while promoting social and emotional growth and development. I believe it is our responsibility as a community to collaborate to provide mentors, positive role models, and opportunities to guide our youth on their journey into adulthood.

Czarina Cabillo

Community Health Liaison

I love to dance and surround myself around positive people who help others. As a former three year K-HighLites Dance Team member, Class of 2023, I learned more about teamwork, dedication, and commitment needed to reach a goal. As an immigrant from the Philippines, I know the hardships and barriers people face here in the United States, and that is why I founded Ketchikan High School’s FIL-AM Club, a space where Filipino/Filipino American students can relate and connect to fellow peers who encounter those same experiences.

I am thrilled to be back working under the Sama Sama Tayo sa Kalusugan project again. I have also been working as a cultural dance assistant with the Magsayawan Ketchikan project since summer of 2023. I take great pride in being part of cultural projects that support and recognize Filipinos like me. I look forward to sharing my personal experiences to further enhance these programs and using my fluency in Tagalog to support language access for those who need assistance.

Bailey Singstad

Reentry Case Manager

I was born and raised in Ketchikan, AK. I have two brothers, and I was the only girl. I now have my own family of five, and I am still the only girl! I have a teenage boy and two playful toddlers that I share with my fiancé. I grew up going camping in our family cabin every summer, hiking through the wilderness, and fishing. I hope I instill the same love of this beautiful island to my boys.

I struggled with addiction for 15 years most of those in this community. I am now living a life in recovery and am grateful to where my journey has taken me. I am privileged to work with the Reentry Coalition to help others escape the challenges I once faced.

My passion for this work drives me to assist individuals in achieving their goals and realizing their full potential. As a member of the Ketchikan Wellness Coalition, I am dedicated to making a positive impact in our community.

Kristen Van de Geer

Behavioral Health Program Coordinator

I am a world traveler, thoughtful empath, experienced educator, and sunrise-obsessed logistical wizard with a passion for supporting and celebrating the successes of others.

Born in Massachusetts, I have lived in and traveled to many places around the world, even before I became a Coast Guard wife. When not at work, I can be found crocheting stuffed animals, snuggling Maine coon kitties, being the world’s best Auntie, or seaglass hunting on the shoreline with my husband, Jon.

Czarina Cabillo

Office Clerk

I’m Czarina Cabillo, about to be a senior at Ketchikan High School. I’m the kind of person that loves socializing and I would call myself a young leader.

I was born in the Philippines then moved to Ketchikan April 2019. I am the oldest child in my family and representing as mom to my siblings because my mom is in the Philippines.

I am the President of the Filipino-American Cultural Club at Ketchikan High School and am on the K-Highlites Dance Team. I’ve danced for 10 years and love it! My first job was at Taco time where I gained confidence and am really enjoying working at KWC.

Our Board

Rick Hines

Board President

I believe in KWC’s mission and its purpose to increase the quality of life of our residents. I feel strongly that this organization helps make a more resilient community. Prior to joining the KWC Board, I was impressed will the passion of the employees and their belief in the organization’s mission.

Day Job: Ketchikan Fire Department, Fire Chief

Jennifer Bergen

Vice President

I am passionate about addressing social determinants of health and promoting health equity!

Day Job: Public Health Nurse Manager

Diane Gubatayao

Secretary

I believe that we were blessed with talents and abilities to help and support others to make lives better.

Day Job: Volunteer on KGBSD, Soccer Referee

VACANT

Tresurer

Austin Otos

Board Member

I want to help nonprofits collaborate and form strong partnerships with one another!

Day Job: Director at Youth Court; hospitality at The Inn at Creek St

Kris Flora

Board Member

I enjoy working with people who are passionate and committed to helping people in our community.

Day Job: Counselor at Revilla High School.

Erica Caudill

Board Member

I believe in KWC’s Mission and Vision statements and like to support the wellness of this community in tangible ways.

Day Job: Clinical Risk Manager, PeaceHealth Ketchikan Medical Center

Chris Cummings

Board Member

Life has been tough for me at times. Doing my best to make the journey easier for others makes the struggle worth it. I am excited for the opportunity to serve an organization like KWC, where I hope to use my experience and passion to bring a unique perspective to the board.

Day Job: KGBSD, Paraprofessional

Dennis Walsh

Board Member

Jennifer Bergen

Board President

I am passionate about addressing social determinants of health and promoting health equity!

Day Job: Public Health Nurse Manager

Vacant

Vice President

Amelia DeLuna-Owsley

Secretary

Vacant

Treasurer

Austin Otos

Board Member

I want to help nonprofits collaborate and form strong partnerships with one another!

Day Job: Director at Youth Court; hospitality at The Inn at Creek St

Kris Flora

Board Member

I enjoy working with people who are passionate and committed to helping people in our community.

Day Job: Counselor at Revilla High School.

Erica Caudill

Board Member

I believe in KWC’s Mission and Vision statements and like to support the wellness of this community in tangible ways.

Day Job: Clinical Risk Manager, PeaceHealth Ketchikan Medical Center

Chris Cummings

Board Member

Day Job: KGBSD, Paraprofessional

Diane Gubatayao

Board Member

I believe that we were blessed with talents and abilities to help and support others to make lives better.

Day Job: Volunteer on KGBSD, Soccer Referee

Tiffany Davis

Board Member

Dennis Walsh

Board Member

Alex Kramarczuk

Board Member

Dr. John Grounds

Board Member

GET INVOLVED

Donate

You can donate to a specific initiative or as a general donation. These generous donations allow us to continue doing the work we do supporting health and wellness activities. Find out more…

Join a Task Force

Have an issue you care about and want to make a difference? Join an active Task Force or start your own!

Become a Member

Members are the foundation of our Coalition. Everyone can become a member of the Ketchikan Wellness Coalition and actively support our efforts around wellness and health.

Join our Board

Be a leader for the community and contribute your skills, experience, and knowledge to help us reach our strategic goals!