Meet the Team

  • Tesia Dalton

    Every Child Coos Coordinator

    Why do you do this work? My greatest accomplishment is breaking the generational barriers passed on through my family and being the parent I had always needed to my 3 girls. I also work for CASA and as a CASA volunteer to help advocate for children in care's best interests. I was also once a child in care. My mom nor us were given the help offered today. I want our kiddos to thrive, to help ensure they get the love and care they deserve. I want to help other parents get the chance to break those generational barriers, help them receive and utilize the tools to give their kiddos so they can lead a bright future.

  • Mendy Hayne

    Every Child Curry Director

    Why do you do this work? I am thrilled to partner with United Way in support of the goals and objectives for Every Child Curry County! I am passionate about serving the marginalized and care of families in our community.

    One of your favorite things? A renewed love of outdoor adventures includes hiking and kayaking with my kids.

    Two fun facts about you? I have lived on the coast of New England, the coast of the Gulf of Mexico and now the coast of Southern Oregon. While I have found beauty in each of these regions, I must say that Oregon is by far my favorite place to live! I am a museum junky and nerd. From art museums in the metropolis to small town railroad museums, I am drawn to them all.

  • Jayden Ruff

    South Coast Equity Coalition Director

    Why do you do this work? Coming soon!

    One of your favorite things? Well I always have to pick three - my garden, musicals, and dinner with friends.

    Two fun facts about you? I am from Roberta, Georgia - a small two-red light town where the peaches grow. I started a scoby hotel at Coos Head Food Co-op and love fermentation and cooking.

  • Laura Erceg

    Southern Oregon Coast Pride Director

    Why do you do this work? Working for Southern Oregon Coast Pride has been an eight-year-long dream come true. My passion has always been community building, and it feels great to be doing this full-time. There are amazing people in this community who are doing good work both as individuals and as part of organizations, and it is great to be a part of that.

    One of your favorite things? Continuing a family tradition of planning "mystery rides" for friends and family as a fun way of taking them on a birthday/celebratory excursion without telling them where we are going. All that I tell them is what to pack and how long we will be gone.

    Two fun facts about you? The best concert of my life was the Indigo Girls with the Oregon Symphony. I love baking and don't do it nearly enough.