Olivia Fernandes, a native of Sacramento, California, has dedicated her life to education and empowerment, leaving a lasting impact on her community. Currently, Olivia is continuing her educational pursuit at CSU Sacramento, where she is majoring in sociology and minoring in counseling. Olivia’s ultimate goal is to become an Academic Advisor at a community college. […]
Martin (also known as “Marty”) was an elementary school teacher for six years before joining the YDN in 2023. He has taught all throughout the Sacramento region, focusing on bilingual education, academic intervention, and DEI practices in his classroom. Martin is a certified Apple Learning Coach and a Class Dojo Master and loves to train […]
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.
Meg joined the YDN team in October of 2019 as a Youth Development Specialist/ Trainer. Meg is motivated to help others develop and grow to their full potential and is determined to create/foster intersectional and inclusive communities through a Youth Development framework. When she’s not at work you can typically find her at live sporting […]
Ms. Helen Yee, a Gallup Certified Strengths Coach with YDN is dedicated to supporting her community with a commitment to bringing out the best in people and making a difference in their lives. With over 25 years of board and non-profit experience, Ms. Yee brings expertise in team building, event coordination, training, facilitation and board […]
Vicki joined the YDN team in October of 2005. Currently she supports the organization in the position of Assistant Director/Office Administration Coordinator, managing the office responsibilities of the YDN. Vicki is proud to be a part of the YDN team and is excited to be a part of making a difference in the lives of […]
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 […]