Tell us about your new position at Mountain Circle:
I have happily joined Mountain Circle Family Services as the Transitional Housing Program (THP) Director in Susanville, California.  I primarily work with foster youth ages 16-23, preparing them to be responsible, healthy, productive adults, and giving them a sense of confidence and security when making future life choices. I engage each one of our youth individually, and meet them where they are, as each youth is a unique individual.  I promote healthy living and higher education.
What is your background?
My background is primarily working within the Criminal Justice system.  I previously developed, trained, and implemented several Specialty Court programs for Washoe County such as Diversion Court, Veterans Court, and Youth Offender Courts.
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From 2003 -2016 I was the Case Manager and Drug Testing provider for Washoe County Adult Drug Courts ,Diversion Courts and Washoe CountySocial Services participants. I hold the following certifications:
  • Bridges Out of Poverty   Trainer
  • Life Skills Coach &  Trainer, Arise Academy
  • Safe Talk, Suicide Prevention
  • Redwood Toxicology
I am also the President and Co-founder of a Nevada based non-profit, Project Help Nevada founded in 2015, providing life skills training, case management and program placement with programs  specifically developed for at-risk youth ages 16-24.  Our mission is to help people before they enter the criminal justice system.  As a grant writer for Project Help Nevada, we were recently awarded a grant from the Department of Homeland Security  to create a media campaign “Countering Violent Extremism.” I am currently enrolled to earn my BA in the new accredited program in Homeland Security with a minor in Criminal Justice.
Welcome to Mountain Circle, Sandra! We can’t wait to support your great work with our foster youth.