Doni Blumenstock serves as the Program Director for Creciente. She is a recognized expert on the development and implementation of leadership programs, having served for 12 years as the founding director of the Sacramento Region Chapter of the American Leadership Forum, consulted on the founding of the San Joaquin Valley chapter of ALF, co-founded and […]
Karen joined YDN mid-2025, bringing experience in administration, recruiting, and program coordination. She completed the Creciente Latinx Leadership Program in 2024 as part of Cohort 5. As a first-generation professional, Karen is passionate about empowering youth and committed to supporting their personal and professional development. She is driven by a deep belief in equity and […]
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 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 […]
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 […]