CEO

Background: Eli holds a Bachelor’s degree in Disability Studies and has over 12 years of experience working as a Direct Support Professional in a variety of roles across the disability services field. An entrepreneur and advocate, they are dedicated to enhancing quality of life for developmentally disabled adults through person-centered support and community connection. With a strong background in leadership and creative collaboration, Eli brings a dynamic and holistic approach to their work.

Passion for the Work: After many years in the music industry, Eli believes deeply in the power of art to inspire and create change. They are passionate about building opportunities that blend creativity and care, helping individuals thrive and express themselves through meaningful, supportive relationships.

Senior Administrative Coordinator

Background: Kristine is the Senior Administrative Coordinator at Artsify and has several years of experience in both direct support and administrative roles. With a strong background in organization, communication, and systems management, she helps ensure that programs and staff are supported behind the scenes so the creative work can thrive.

Passion for the Work: Kristine is passionate about helping people and creating structure that allows others to succeed. She values teamwork, compassion, and problem-solving, and finds fulfillment in supporting the Artsify team through care, consistency, and connection.

Human Resource Director

Background: Alex holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Business Administration from Portland State University and has completed graduate training in Industrial and Organizational Psychology at Florida Tech. His work has focused on Motivation, Inclusion Ethics, and Neurodiversity, and he is currently applying his expertise in real-world organizational settings while on strategic academic leave.

Passion for the Work: Alex is passionate about creating human-centered systems that empower people and strengthen workplace culture. He combines empathy with data-driven strategy to design meaningful, sustainable solutions that help individuals and organizations thrive.

Group Coordinator / Therap Specialist

Background: Josh began working at an art-based day program for adults with disabilities in the late 1990s. He studied Visual Arts at the University of California, Davis, and has since worked in direct support, art coordination, mental health, and ran a gallery for outsider artists.

Passion for the Work: Josh is passionate about supporting adults with disabilities through art and sharing the work of self-taught artists with wider audiences. With over 30 years in the field, he values the lasting bonds he has built with the people he supports.

Scheduling Coordinator

Background: Larz has worked in the direct support field for nearly two years in a variety of roles. He holds an associate’s degree in Psychology from PCC and a bachelor’s degree in English/Philosophy from the University of New Mexico, with plans to pursue graduate studies in Social Work.

Passion for the Work: Drawn to the field through his love of art as a universal language, Larz values the daily work of support and the chance to build lasting relationships with clients, families, and colleagues.

Supported Living Program Manager/DSP

Background: Ian holds a Bachelor of Arts in Music from Portland State University and brings over ten years of music-teaching experience along with nearly three decades of performance experience. He began working as a Direct Support Professional in November 2020 and joined Artsify in December 2021.

Passion for the Work: Ian was drawn to the field of Direct Support through his passion for meeting, working with, and helping people of all kinds. What attracted him to Artsify specifically is the arts focus and the opportunity to build meaningful connections and relationships through creating and enjoying art together.

Supervisor/DSP

Background: Ezra earned a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and Sociology from the University of Texas at Austin and has completed certifications in Hatha Yoga, Sound Therapy, and Children’s Yoga. They worked in early and special education for over a decade before transitioning to disability support work in 2024, when they joined Artsify. In 2025, Ezra stepped into a supervisor role, supporting both clients and staff across the organization.

Passion for the Work: Ezra is passionate about empowering others to pursue their personal and creative goals. They find fulfillment in helping clients reach their artistic dreams and believe that their work at Artsify contributes to a more inclusive and vibrant Portland art community.

Supervisor/DSP

Background: Mavis graduated from Auburn University with a degree in Human Development and Family Studies and moved to Portland in 2019. Since then, they have worked in various roles supporting a diverse group of people with disabilities. Mavis joined the Artsify team in 2022 as a DSP and now works part time as both a DSP and a Supervisor while pursuing a career in Massage Therapy and Bodywork.

Passion for the Work: Mavis enjoys connecting with each individual on their caseload and helping to problem-solve situations as they arise. This work keeps them humble and continually learning, as they strive to ensure that each person they support feels valued, understood, and cared for at the end of each day.

Supervisor/DSP

Background: Hunter has been supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) since 2019 in various settings, including community inclusion, supported living, and group home care. He earned a Bachelor of Arts from Portland State University’s Honors College in 2024, majoring in Psychology with a minor in American Sign Language. Hunter pursued his degree to deepen his skills and better support members of the I/DD community.

Passion for the Work: Hunter is passionate about fostering connection and empowerment through creativity and support. His love for music and his dedication to the I/DD community inspire his work with Artsify, where he combines compassion, collaboration, and creativity to help others thrive.

Supervisor/DSP

Background: Molly started working with the I/DD community in her hometown of Anchorage, Alaska in 2014, and has been with Artsify since October of 2022. She went to school for art and psychology, and loves being in a role where she can exercise both of her interests.

Passion for the Work: Molly's family includes multiple people with developmental disabilities, so although she works in the field professionally, it is also very personal to her. She strongly believes in the power of art therapy and loves being able to assist people with finding their creative voice, and helping them reach their personal goals.

Onboarding Specialist / DSP

Background: Lucy is a Portland-area native with a lifelong love of the arts. She graduated from PSU  and has worn many work hats including a baker, a paralegal at a disability law firm, a house manager for a local fringe theater, and a website manager. She was a freelance photographer for several decades and currently enjoys making jewelry and collages.

Passion for the work: Lucy loves bringing her passion for inclusivity and equitability to prioritize client needs and dreams. She is passionate about being an advocate for her clients and helping make sure people have a voice. 

Planning Specialist/DSP

Background: Megan holds a bachelor’s degree in Educational Studies and Special Education and has over a decade of experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. They are also a mixed media artist and are currently pursuing a graduate degree in Counseling.

Passion for the Work: Megan values the joy of working alongside incredible individuals, while supporting the vulnerable members of our society and creating inclusive spaces helps foster safety and belonging in our community.

Direct Support Professional

Background: Sarah was born and raised in Los Angeles, California and moved to Oregon in 2014 to pursue degrees Human Services at PCC, and in Psychology and Dance at the University of Oregon. In recent years, Sarah has worked in education, administration, and the arts, and is currently working towards earning a Masters in Social Work at Portland State. As a lifelong dancer, Sarah’s passion is offering help to people in her community through the medium of movement, and loves supporting Artsify clients in pursuit of their own personal and artistic goals.

Passion for the work: Sarah believes in artistic engagement as a critical act of resistance to systemic oppression. 

Direct Support Professional

Background: Emily is a multidisciplinary artist who grew up in Dallas, Texas, and  graduated from the University of North Texas with a Bachelor of Fine Arts. She has been working with adults with developmental disabilities for over 3 years,  2 of which have been at Artsify. She moved to Portland in 2022, and loves the community she has found in this city.

Passion for the Work: Emily first began working with adults with developmental disabilities at a day program in Las Vegas, where she quickly became passionate about the field. As an artist herself, she believes in art’s power for self-expression and community building. She is thankful for the opportunity to help others achieve their personal and creative goals at Artsify.  

Direct Support Professional

Background: CJ is a practicing writer-illustrator and graduated from Black Hills State University with Bachelor’s Degrees in both Art and English Literature. Previously, they’ve designed writing/art workshops and art performances for creatives of various ages, skillsets, and needs. Additionally, CJ collects books on listening and language, and they study independently to enhance their communication skills with people of all backgrounds.
Passion for the work: CJ is a neurodivergent artist and they enjoy interacting with the community in nature and other places that invoke creativity and inspiration. CJ always seeks to encounter new people with an open and relaxed energy, and they enjoy most to help others discover accessible avenues towards their personal dreams. 

Direct Support Professional

Background: Sarah has a BA in Philosophy and Art and is currently working toward her MSW at Portland State University. Prior to finding herself as a DSP, she worked for many years as a barista, which afforded her time to read, think deep thoughts, and make drawings (all things she still loves to do!). Later, she found a home in gardening and farming work, diving deep into the world of plant ID, soil health and crop cultivation.

Passion for the Work: After facing physical limitations that prevented her from farming professionally, Sarah decided to try working as a DSP. However indirect her path to direct support work, she feels truly at home here and finds deep fulfillment in supporting Artsify clients to navigate the world and grow in their desired directions.

Direct Support Professional

Background: Kevin has a background in special effects makeup, beauty makeup, cosmetology, and costume design, along with experience in stage work and vocal performance, from singing to voice acting.

Passion for the Work: Kevin believes art is a universal language and is passionate about helping people of all skill levels experience the joy of creativity. Their goal is to foster community, improve quality of life, and create spaces of safety through the arts.

Direct Support Professional

Karla grew up on a farm in Iowa and has a degree in Horticulture with an art minor. She worked in group homes while going to college and was a paraeducator at the Greenthumb transition program here in Portland. There she discovered her love of teaching others about plants and being artistic with them. Karla was very excited to find Artsify as it combines her love of working with people and plants. She currently does a weekly garden group at Belong and is excited about hosting future art classes with plants and cooking classes with veggies from the Belong garden.

Direct Support Professional

Ruth is a current student at an arts college in Chicago, Illinois, routinely coming back to Portland. She is studying journalism alongside arts, and works at her school paper. Ruth has been an artist her whole life, and was a part of a painting studio throughout high school. Ruth loves to engage with others through all kinds of arts and crafts, cooking, and community activities. Ruth also loves the outdoors, frequently going on nice walks in the city parks and along the river. Ruth values kindness as a foundation to everything; approaching new people and new situations with kind, open minds is always the way she likes to navigate life and relationships!

Direct Support Professional

Brendon is born and raised in northeast Portland. He has been working in the special needs community for over 20 years. When not working, he is a high school baseball coach, and enjoys spending time with his family.

Direct Support Professional

Background: Rory holds a degree in Women and Gender Studies from Portland State University and has experience in painting with watercolor and gouache. They bring a creative lens to their support work, combining artistic skill with a passion for advocacy and empowerment.

Passion for the Work: Rory values creativity as a tool for connection and self-expression. They enjoy supporting others in discovering their own artistic voice and exploring new creative outlets as part of their personal growth and artistic journey.

Direct Support Professional

Erin is passionate about the arts and self expression. Her main focus is painting acrylic on wood which is heavily influenced from nature and animals. In her free time she enjoys yoga, rock climbing, hiking, cuddling with her cat and taking care of her houseplants. She is currently pursuing a degree in social work and has a genuine desire to make a positive impact. She joined Artsify to contribute in making a more compassionate and inclusive world. 

Direct Support Professional

Hilary is a lifelong Portlander and dabbler in the arts. She was drawn to Artsify's emphasis on community, art, and empowering people to pursue their own goals. She is autistic and passionate about supporting and being part of a neurodivergent community that strives for equity and inclusion. Hilary is into gardening, crafting, sci-fi, enjoying the outdoors, cosplay, and experimenting with various artistic mediums. She believes in approaching life and people with kindness and curiosity. While working with Artsify, Hilary is pursuing a degree in art therapy.

Direct Support Professional

Background: Brina or Bee is a compassionate DSP with years of experience supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Known for their calm presence and strong communication skills, they provide both behavioral and physical support with patience and understanding.

Passion for the Work: As a neurodivergent person, Bee brings lived experience that deepens their empathy and ability to build authentic relationships. Inspired by community, art, and nature, they approach their work with creativity, kindness, and heart.

Direct Support Professional

Background: Kari is an artist, caregiver, and art therapy master’s student at Lewis & Clark College. Some of her favorite art processes include paper mâché, watercolor painting, and zine making. She brings creativity and compassion into her work, blending her artistic background with her experience in direct support.

Passion for the Work: Kari’s favorite part of being a Direct Support Professional is building authentic relationships. She finds fulfillment in getting to know each client and discovering how to best support their goals and creative expression. 

Direct Support Professional

Zora has worked as a support staff in various iterations for over a decade. She has stayed working in the DSP/Care worker field because of the personal connections she has made with the people she has worked with, and the impact she's been able to make through her work. She enjoys writing and performing stand-up comedy, music, gardening and chess.

Direct Support Professional

Court (she/her) considers herself a multimedia artist with interest in photography, graphic design, video, and ink printing. She's been in Portland for 7 years, and considers it home at this point. She has a personal interest and deep desire to foster community connections and engagement by art and how art can be the center and forefront of community rebuilding and culture. In her spare time, she helps lead a local queer running group called Lezrun and primarily handle their Instagram page. She loves to amplify the community’s LGBT voices and create inclusive spaces for their talents and strengths to be displayed.

Direct Support Professional

Background: Lukas is a multimedia artist with a Bachelor’s degree in Fine Arts. Their creative work spans drawing, painting, collage, printmaking, drag, and music. Since 2024, they have worked as a Direct Support Professional, combining their artistic background with a commitment to advocacy and inclusion.

Passion for the Work: Lukas is dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities through creativity and compassion. They value continual learning in disability rights and activism and find fulfillment in building meaningful connections and empowering the people they support.

Direct Support Professional

Background: Claire is a multidisciplinary artist with a B.A. in Studio Art from Willamette University. They use art as a way to process and find space in the world. Claire collects materials and art forms alike with experience in theater, music, crafting, and classic illustration.

Passion for the Work: Claire strives to help the everyday feel more accessible and appreciates the small and big victories alike. She enjoys assisting folks in pursuing their passions and creating opportunities for self expression.

Direct Support Professional

Luke (he/him) is a multidisciplinary artist who has been residing in Portland since 2016. He earned his BS in Theater Arts from Portland State University. His two main forms of creative expression these days are writing/producing music as well as illustration. His hobbies include gaming, hiking and spending time with his two cats. As someone who has family on the spectrum, Luke is passionate about his work as a direct support provider, and is excited to be a part of the Artsify team.

Direct Support Professional

Background: Adrian relocated to Portland from Salt Lake City, Utah in 2020 and quickly fell in love with the city they now call home. They are currently pursuing a Master’s in Art Therapy at Lewis & Clark College and serve as a Resident Art Mentor (RAM) at Belong.

Passion for the Work: Adrian is passionate about creativity, community, and connection. They love creating art, drumming, and spending time in nature, and find great joy in living at Belong and being part of its thriving, supportive community.

Direct Support Professional

Finn (they/them) is a multidisciplinary artist and support professional with a background in sociology, healthcare, andcreative work spanning graphic design, ceramics, wood, and multimedia. Their practice is undergirded by a deep attention to color, form, feeling, and function. Finn loves helping others explore their creativity—whether through art, conversation, or cooking—and believes everyone has an inner artist ready to come alive in their own uniquely expressive way.

Direct Support Professional

Background: A lifelong artist and musician with an equal passion for helping people, Galen has been combining these interests in his volunteer work for many years and was thrilled to find Artsify where he could make this work into a career. Galen studied Art and Psychology at PCC and believes one’s education is a lifelong pursuit.

Passion for the Work: Galen enjoys the endless opportunities for collaboration and connection his work at Artsify offers and brings a creative approach to all situations—whether it’s making art or making a sandwich.

Direct Support Professional

Background: Blue has worked across a variety of fields, including as a welder, theater actor, sculpture studio assistant, and overnight staff at a youth shelter. Throughout his life, he has supported people with disabilities and enjoys problem-solving and uplifting others to make life easier and more enjoyable.

Passion for the Work: Blue values creating safe, comfortable spaces where people can exist and create freely. He loves listening to others share their passions and special interests, and finds joy in helping clients feel accomplished, capable, and supported.

Direct Support Professional

Background: Becca’s experiences range from fishing in Alaska and working as a grill master in Yellowstone to farming in Oregon. She studied art at the University of Montana and completed an outdoor leadership course in the Amazon, which deepened her creativity and sense of adventure.

Passion for the Work: What drew Becca to this field was the opportunity to work one-on-one with people. She is dedicated to building meaningful connections, supporting individuals to pursue their goals, and helping others navigate challenges while fostering confidence and independence.

Direct Support Professional

Reggie (he/they) is a Cherokee nation citizen. While living on the nation he studied many different digital arts. Originally focused on video editing, he later expanded to videography, music, graphic design, photography, and more. Years later, Reggie began pursuing physical art and moved to northern California. Under his own art mentor he learned about sketching, painting, sewing, and sculpting. Reggie takes a trauma informed approach to all creativity, centering the person's wellbeing before their creative output. Outside of Artsify, he develops painting courses which focus on fostering personal acceptance. His hobbies include video games, research, and traveling.

Direct Support Professional

Charly grew up in Portland and went to school for engineering. Before Artsify she was working as a programmer. In her spare time she likes to get out and check out events in her area. When home she loves to collage and do puzzles. Charly has a big heart and loves to bring fun to any situation she can.

Direct Support Professional

After moving to Portland from New York, Christopher first started working in support services seasonally while off-duty at Portland area farmers markets, before spending several years as a chocolatier and baker. A desire to reconnect with the community and to make a meaningful change in the lives of others has led him back to direct support services. Christopher believes every person is deserving of a dignified and rewarding life and strives to make that a possibility in spite of an often obdurate and stifling world.

Direct Support Professional

Background: April is a poet, clarinetist, and educator. They practice sound poetics as a pathway to express multi-verses and transform ancestral memory. They earned their MFA in Writing and Poetics from Naropa University, and their BA in Literatures of the World from UC San Diego, and their writing has been featured in Bombay Gin, TAYO, Morning/Mourning, and collective.aporia.

Passion for the Work: April is a neurodivergent, differently abled lifelong learner and they're passionate about supporting others pursue their artistic passions, live their best life, and discover ways to incorporate writing and contemplative arts into their daily life.

Direct Support Professional

Background: Alexander is a multidisciplinary artist combining martial arts, visual arts, and craftsmanship. Disciplined in Meditation, Kung Fu, Qi Gong, and Wing Chun, his work spans drawing, painting, music production, street dancing , lapidary, and silver gold / smithing.

Passion for the Work: Alexander’s dedication to helping others is deeply rooted in his own personal experiences, having faced the challenges of homelessness and childhood abuse. His life’s work is driven by a profound commitment to assisting individuals in overcoming a wide range of obstacles. With a foundation in hypnotherapy, meditation, pranic healing, and stress management, Alexander utilizes his set of tools cultivated through years of study and practice. His approach is centered on compassion and patience, offering support to others with the goal of fostering healing and empowerment.

Direct Support Professional

Background: Katelyn has worked as a caregiver for the past four years in a variety of settings. She began in long-term care and first joined Artsify in 2021 before transitioning to Providence Medical Center, where she worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant in neurosurgery, general medicine, and intensive care. Katelyn has since returned to Artsify while completing her bachelor’s degree in nursing.

Passion for the Work: Katelyn’s brother, who has Asperger’s syndrome, has inspired her deep appreciation for the many ways people experience and interpret the world. She enjoys getting to know each client and providing individualized, compassionate care that supports their goals. With her clinical background and creative spirit, Katelyn values building meaningful relationships and helping each person thrive through personalized support.

Direct Support Professional

Background: Johnny holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Studio Art and a Master of Science in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Nebraska. Before joining Artsify, Johnny worked as a mental health therapist in Nebraska for three years, supporting individuals in building emotional awareness and personal growth.

Passion for the Work: Johnny enjoys supporting others and helping them advocate for themselves. They value bringing authenticity, empathy, and curiosity into their work, creating a space where individuals feel seen, supported, and empowered to express themselves.

Founder

Nolan is the parent of a developmentally-disabled young adult artist with a successful track record in business, non-profits and public service.