Staff Spotlight: Carissa

It's big fun when Carissa connects with her cousin's daughter, who Carissa says is a mini version of herself!
Carissa, Program Support Specialist:
Keeping Customer Service and Programs on Track
This month, we’re introducing our new Program Support Specialist: Carissa. A welcome addition to the Camp Fire crew, she’s helping drive success from within, supporting customer service needs and a host of back-end program-assistance tasks and to-dos. Read on to learn about Carissa’s background, responsibilities and awesome role, plus some fun facts about who she is professionally and personally!
Q: Tell us about your background and what drew you to join Camp Fire?
A: My background is in retail operations management with experience implementing systems and procedures to ensure overall efficiency, consistency, and quality. I aimed to do this all while culturing a collaborative and community focused environment. I came to Camp Fire because it was important to me to seek out a workplace culture where diversity is not only accepted, but celebrated.

Carissa takes her bunny, Pigeon, for a car ride.
Q: What is your role at Camp Fire?
A: My role with Camp Fire is very exciting because it is brand new! I'm working on editing and developing effective systems to overall enhance program flow. I'm also around to lend program staff a hand, and if you have recently reached out to customer service, you may be familiar with my name!
Q: What are your "sparks"?
A: Some of my sparks include letter writing, treasure hunting, gift wrapping, mystery solving, and trying new things! I also have a big heart for animals and building accessible communities.
Q: What are your future goals—professional and personal?
A: A professional goal of mine is to help find new ways I can contribute to the success and growth of Camp Fire Central Oregon. A personal goal of mine is to visit Singapore and enjoy the botanical gardens.
Q: What's your favorite part of working with youth?
A: My favorite aspect of supporting an organization dedicated to helping youth thrive is knowing that my time is spent contributing to a place that has values I align with and is making a difference in young lives.

Truffle, Carissa's dog, gets a snuggle, posing with her at Crater Lake.
Q: Why does your job—and Camp Fire—matter?
A: Camp Fire matters because it's crucial for children to have an environment where they can be appreciated for their individuality and are encouraged to explore new experiences that foster their growth and connection to themselves, nature, and others! My job matters because by fostering a cohesive and organized workflow, I can support program staff to perform at their best, and together, we make a meaningful impact on the lives of young people.