Welcome to Our New Staff Members
We are thrilled to announce that a generous Community Violence Intervention and Prevention grant from the Crime Victim and Survivor Services Division (CVSSD) has allowed us to expand our team with three new dedicated individuals who share our vision of trauma-informed care and support.
Robert Blake (he/him) Resilient Communities Program Director
Robert has been an integral part of CTSS for almost a decade and is now taking on the role of Resilient Communities Program Director. A native of Portland, Robert's mission is to positively influence the lives of youth daily. As a Restorative Justice Practitioner and youth mentor, he has been working tirelessly to advocate for at-risk youth in schools. Robert's experiences as a Gang Outreach Specialist and his background as a Correctional Officer and U.S. Army veteran have uniquely equipped him to make a difference. In his spare time, he mentors youth, providing them with hope and opportunities to succeed. We are excited to have Robert on board to further our mission and impact within the community.
Malia Vasquez (she/her)
Trauma Support Program Director
Malia brings close to 20 years of experience in supporting survivors of child abuse, domestic violence, sexual assault, and other forms of trauma. Her work across different regions and with diverse populations has instilled in her a deep understanding of trauma survivors' unique needs and backgrounds. Malia's person-centered approach empowers individuals to reclaim their lives and build resilience. As a Portland native, she is committed to the well-being and safety of the city and is dedicated to creating partnerships with community organizations and local service providers. With her background in victim advocacy, Malia is uniquely positioned to lead our Trauma Support Program, providing direct support to survivors and fostering healing within our community.
Lindsay Christensen (she/they)
Operations Director
Lindsay's expertise in mediation, restorative dialogue facilitation, and conflict transformation make her a valuable addition to our team as the Operations Director. With a master's degree in Conflict Resolution and extensive experience in organizational management and consulting, Lindsay ensures that our policies and practices promote healing and resilience while being sensitive to the effects of trauma. Her passion for improving workplace culture and building strong relationships aligns perfectly with CTSS's mission. Lindsay's commitment to empowering individuals and fostering collaboration will strengthen our organization and enhance our services to the community.
