She/Her
13 years of state involvement
Charissa is a passionate advocate for system-involved youth nationwide and is deeply committed to creating meaningful change. After feeling unheard during her own time in care, she made it her mission to reform the system, determined to ensure no other young person faces the same struggles. Charissa graduated with honors from Clark College with an Associate’s degree in Sociology and is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences at Washington State University, concentrating in Sociology, Human Development, and Anthropology, with a minor in At-Risk Youth. She is a strong voice for policy reform within the Washington State Legislature, actively engaging with senators, serving on panels, and collaborating on legislative initiatives to ensure policies are equitable, developmentally appropriate, and tailored to youth needs. Charissa has traveled across the United States speaking on panels to advocate for systemic reform, has helped amend nearly 200 Washington legal codes, and continues to partner with nonprofits aligned with her mission. In her free time, she enjoys postcrossing, painting, writing, raving, and traveling. Her commitment to social justice drives her career goals, as she aims to ensure all youth receive the support they need to succeed.
