Monica Blanco

Monica joins YDN after a long career in public service. After 30 years, she retired from the City of Sacramento as their Youth Division Manager where she managed critical youth development programs and services in workforce development, civic engagement, licensed childcare, and after school programs on elementary and middle school campuses. Monica is a youth […]

Nicoda Adams

Nicoda joined the YDN team in April 2017 as Project Specialist. Nicoda hopes to make a positive change in the surrounding communities through her work with YDN by bringing others life-changing experiences that will help them see their full potential and create growth. When she is not at work, Nicoda enjoys reading, playing soccer, and […]

Trao Thao

Trao Thao is a certified IncredibleCoach, LEGO SERIOUS PLAY facilitator, and is one of the Youth Development Specialist/Trainers with YDN. Trao has promoted Youth Development over the past 13 years through his work with community organizations in the greater Sacramento area, specifically focusing on resiliency, engagement, well-being, and building the strengths of young people.

Adrian Ruiz

Adrian Ruiz is a Gallup Certified Strengths Coach and Executive Director of YDN. He is recognized regionally as one of the leading facilitators, coaches, and trainers surrounding the strengths-based youth development approach. He assumed the role as Executive Director for the YDN in 2009. Over the previous years, Adrian has held the positions of Co-Executive […]

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