Youth On Their Own Promotes Several Team Members

Tucson, AZ—On September 1, 2016 Youth On Their Own announced the internal promotions of Kristyn Conner and Kristin Ohman. Kristyn Conner came to YOTO in November of 2014 after serving three AmeriCorps terms with multiple Tucson nonprofits. She initially joined YOTO as a grant writer, gained some hands-on experience as the Development Coordinator, and now serves as Director of Development. Kristyn graduated cum laude from Tulane University with a Bachelor’s degree in International Relations. Kristyn is very excited to continue growing within the YOTO team. In regards to her new promotion she stated, “I’m excited for this new chapter serving as YOTO’s Director of Development. Over the past few years, I’ve watched this organization grow and expand to serve more youth than ever before… and it’s humbling to be part of a team of staff, volunteers, and donors making that possible.”

Kristin Ohman has spent the past 15 years working in various youth based nonprofits. Her most recent position was at a local Tucson hospice where she managed roughly 150 volunteers. Kristin attended the University of Maryland before beginning her career in nonprofit development. When asked about her promotion to Volunteer & Development Coordinator, Kristin said, “Volunteers are the essence of any robust nonprofit organization, and Youth On Their Own is no exception. I’m humbled to be able to work alongside others who believe in the heart of our mission. I am honored to continue to be a part of the growth of our program through expanding meaningful opportunities for our phenomenal volunteers”.

On September 1, 2016 Youth on Their Own announced the promotions of team members Zach Ferell and Daniela Zasa.  Zach Ferell began his work with YOTO as an AmeriCorps Academic Advocate. After the successful completion of his term, Zach was offered a full-time position as Program Coordinator. Before joining the YOTO team, Zach attended college at Mount Angel Seminary where he received Bachelors’ degrees in Philosophy and Literature. In reference to his new position, Zach stated, “This year, I am privileged to work as the YOTO Program Coordinator for the East side and Central schools of Pima County. The tenacious youth I work with humble me on a daily basis. It is my pleasure to support and advocate for the students in any way I can alongside an excellent team of staff, volunteers and donors.”

Daniela Zasa began her time with YOTO as a Program Coordinator before being promoted to Senior Program Coordinator this September. After receiving her Bachelor’s degree in Molecular and Cellular Biology with a minor in Italian from the University of Arizona, Daniela began teaching at charter schools throughout the community. She is passionate about helping at-risk youth and comments, “Seeing our youth succeed despite their struggles, and their positive attitudes in the face of difficult pasts, is what drives my passion for my job. They have hope for the future, which is the product of a community that has come together to show these youth that they matter. Every day our students motivate me to be a better Program Coordinator and a better human being. I look forward to continuing our efforts to strengthen our program so that our youth can succeed in their future goals.”