CARE Advisory Board
The leadership of the coalition is steered by the CARE Advisory Board, which is a group of voluntary individuals from the coalition who have taken an active role in how CARE is governed and functions as a whole. They voluntarily hold their leadership role for a minimum of a one-year term and act on the behalf of the constituents to make informed decisions about the direction and actions of the coalition.
The Advisory Board, in the Spring of 2016, composed the Bylaws for CARE and will also aid in developing a sustainability plan for the group so that CARE can be self-sustained and have prolonged success for years to come. Board members meet quarterly outside of coalition meetings and take active roles in leading the general CARE meetings and connecting the subcommittees to the leadership.
Misti Andrews
District Student Services Coordinator- Tolleson Union High School District. – Bio Coming Soon!
Andrea Arellano
Andrea Arellano
Director for Social and Emotional Learning and Mental Health Services- Glendale Elementary School District- Andrea Arellano, a 22-year Glendale Elementary School District educator, is currently the Director for Social-Emotional Learning and Mental Health Services. Most recently she served as a school principal. Prior, she served as an assistant principal, social-emotional learning specialist, librarian, and classroom teacher. Andrea possesses an undergraduate degree in education, a master’s degree in educational leadership, and an additional master’s degree in School Counseling. With two decades of working in the city of Glendale and being born and raised in Phoenix, AZ, she has a deep understanding of the needs within those communities. Andrea is a servant leader and inspires to continue supporting youth by building their resiliency and breaking barriers to promote equality.
Kiersten Walker
Kiersten Walker
School Psychologist- Agua Fria High School District- Kiersten Walker works as a school psychologist in public schools and is in her 27th year of practice. Currently, she works as a district school psychologist for the Agua Fria Union High School District, where she has worked for 11 years. She has supported preschool through high school-aged students, families, and colleagues in her work. Outside of work, Kiersten is involved in the MPOWRD non-profit organization, a peer-to-peer student-led support group. Kiersten is married and has two daughters, ages 24 and 18.
Tessa French
Tessa French
Director of Training, Program & Quality- Boys & Girls Clubs of the Valley–Passionate and driven, Tessa is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in youth and program development. With a career spanning over a decade, she has consistently demonstrated her commitment to fostering environments of continuous learning and growth. Currently serving as the Director of Training Program and Quality at the Boys and Girls Club of the Valley, Tessa takes charge of employee training, forges vital community partnerships to enhance programs and training, and helps maintain/support operational standards of quality within her organization. Prior to her current role, Tessa served as a Branch Director at the same organization. Tessa has a passion for youth development, leadership, and innovation. She continues to make a lasting impact on the organization and communities she serves through her unwavering dedication in creating safe, positive, and impactful environments for both youth and staff members alike. https://carecoalitionaz.org/available-programs/
Michelle Rouse
Michelle Rouse
Michelle Rouse is the dedicated Community Outreach Manager for ACCEL, a nonprofit organization committed to supporting individuals who have special needs. With a Bachelor of Arts degree from Arizona State University, Michelle brings a blend of education and passion to her role.
In her capacity as Community Outreach Manager, Michelle works tirelessly to foster connections and build bridges between ACCEL and the community it serves. Her commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of those who have special needs is evident in every initiative she undertakes.
As a proud member of Leadership West, Michelle actively contributes to the development and enhancement of leadership skills within the community. This additional role reflects her commitment to continuous growth and the betterment of the community at large.
Michelle is also honored to serve as an advisory board member for the CARE Coalition, where her insights and dedication contribute to the coalition’s mission and impact.
Beyond her professional life, Michelle is an avid traveler who finds joy in exploring new cultures and embracing diverse experiences. When not traveling, you can find her on the kickball field, channeling her inner athlete and relishing in the spirit of friendly competition. However, her greatest joy comes from spending quality time with her family.
Michelle is married to a retired Air Force veteran, adding a unique perspective to her life. Their shared experiences bring depth and resilience to their family dynamic. Together, they are proud parents of two daughters, creating a loving and supportive environment where each family member thrives.
Michelle Rouse exemplifies the perfect balance of professional dedication and personal fulfillment, making her a valuable asset to both the nonprofit sector and her community.