Deb is one of the original co-founders of Vitalize Kitsap and has lived on Bainbridge Island since she was a first grader. She loves the Pacific Northwest and has raised her two grown children here. Deb has her B.S. in Food Science. While in college she studied American Sign Language for two years, as well as worked with her friend, who is blind to adapt Algebra class problems into a braille system. After college, Deb had an active 20-year career in Seattle’s food industry and has many memories of the time spent at Etta’s. Restaurants gave her the flexibility to serve as a first responder with the Bainbridge Island Fire Department and work part-time for the BI School District in the health room. In 2001, Deb volunteered in the special education (SPED) classroom at Woodward Middle School where she met an amazing group of young women with whom she started Girls' Club to provide a safe and fun environment to socialize. By 2009, Girls' Club had grown in size and focus. Deb collaborated with her friend and SPED teacher, Holly Patton, to create Island Time Activities, now Vitalize Kitsap, and obtain its nonprofit status. Since its inception, Vitalize Kitsap (VK), has grown to serve members, their families, and our communities around North Kitsap. Deb is proud of the work VK does to empower people with intellectual disabilities to lead lives of meaning and self-determination.

Cassandra has lived in the PNW since 2016 and lived on Bainbridge for 5 years. She brings years of experience from her time working at corporations like Starbucks, 24 Hour Fitness, and Noom. Led by a passion for DEI and human rights Cassandra returned to school to study Diversity and Social Justice at Seattle Central Community College. Following that, she studied Integrated Studies and Political Science at Washington University in St. Louis and is now in school for a Master's of Public Administration. Cassandra loves to read, collect books, and go to bookstores. She also enjoys stand-up paddle boarding, traveling, hiking, hot yoga, and spending time with her family and their husky.

Laurent was born and raised in Brussels, Belgium. He and his husband lived in several cities in Germany and moved to the Pacific Northwest in 2017. Soon after arriving in the PNW, he began working with people of varied abilities. Laurent has experience in Community Inclusion and Job Development programs. He’s excited to bring cultural diversity to VK programs by teaching his native tongue, French, to the members. He now lives in lovely Poulsbo where he enjoys gardening, hiking, and traveling.

Carrie, born and raised in Boston, has called the Northwest home since 2004. As a mother of four adult children, she has been involved with Vitalize Kitsap since 2016 through her adult son with developmental disabilities. With twenty-eight years of experience navigating services for people with developmental disabilities, Carrie opened, coordinated, and managed a shared living home for three years. She holds a business degree from Pepperdine University and transitioned into health and wellness in 2006, becoming a passionate advocate for movement for all. As a yoga instructor and teacher trainer, she has taught in many gyms and studios in Kitsap County and now enjoys teaching Silver Sneakers, a movement for older adults of varying abilities and fitness levels. Recently, Carrie completed her CTA life coaching certification and is excited about offering 1:1 coaching and mentoring for Vitalize Kitsap members and the community. She believes in helping everyone achieve their life goals with the right support. , but more importantly, she has the passion and commitment for making a difference in the lives of people of all abilities. On the weekends, Carrie enjoys kayaking, hiking, live music, walking her dogs, and reading.

Leigh was born in North Carolina and raised all over the world due to her father’s occupation as an undercover CIA agent. Her family spent five years in Austria during the Cold War, three years in Laos (Thailand) while the Vietnam conflict raged on, and three years in France while the Cold War slowly ended. The family led a nomadic lifestyle but one filled with excitement, ups and downs, drama, and comedy. Leigh is a published author of several works including her most popular book, “Sticky Situations: Stories of Childhood Adventures Abroad.” Leigh is a graduate of the College of William and Mary and has had experience working in both the private sector and the Federal government. She lives in Lewes, DE with her husband, Harry, their two cats, and her horse. When she is not working remotely for Vitalize Kitsap, she is out volunteering in the community or riding her horse. Leigh’s favorite thing to do when she is relaxing is to eat pizza and popcorn and watch lots of really scary movies.

More information coming soon!

Stella recently made a significant move from Colorado to Seattle to be closer to family, driven by her desire to strengthen connections and provide support. This transition marks an exciting new chapter in her life, blending her rich past experiences with the vibrant opportunities of a new city. The move not only brings her closer to loved ones but also presents new avenues for professional and personal growth in Seattle’s bustling, diverse environment. With a deep passion for healthcare, Stella’s journey began with four years of dedicated service as an EMT, where she developed a profound love for helping people from all walks of life. Her commitment to compassionate care and enthusiasm for working with diverse populations shines through in every interaction, making a lasting impact on the community. This passion continues to fuel her aspirations as she embarks on new professional endeavors in Seattle.

More information coming soon!