PORT TOWNSEND — Nikki Russell has joined United Good Neighbors of Jefferson County as director of development and community engagement.
Russell has worked for nearly 20 years in nonprofit management and development.
For the past seven years, Russell worked with United Way of King County developing, implementing and managing programs that promoted community involvement, tapped community assets and built community support networks.
Russell begins her position on a full-time basis in June.
“The opportunity to hire Nikki arose through an anonymous donor who awarded a $300,000 capacity building grant over three years to the Jefferson County Community Foundation with the stipulation that $90,000 of the funds go to help UGN build its capacity as well,” said Carla Caldwell, executive director of both UGN and the foundation.
“The fact that we will be staffed now to build a stronger campaign to support safety net and preventative programs in our community is a dream come true.”
Russell’s responsibilities will include coordinating an annual campaign; developing year-round outreach and education about UGN programs; building a campaign committee that represents business, health and social services, education, faith communities and local leadership; and building a larger and more engaged volunteer base.
“I am passionate about engaging in work that leverages local assets of time, talent and treasure to build thriving, healthy and sustainable communities,” Russell said.
“I especially look forward to getting to know all of the amazing organizations and people that are working to improve lives and strengthen the Jefferson County community.”
Russell can be reached at nikki@WeAreUGN.org or at 360-385-3797.
Pro bono lawyers
PORT TOWNSEND — The Jefferson County Bar Association and Jefferson-Clallam Pro Bono Organization held its first free legal clinic April 19 at the Tri-Area Community Center and were able to help 27 community members.
The attending attorneys — David Alvarez, David Faber, Sam Feinson, Collette Kostelec, Paul Richmond, Rick Robertson and Rafael Urquia — gave free consultations regarding several different areas of law, including wills, estates, trusts, land-use, real estate, medical malpractice and family law, according to a news release.
Jefferson-Clallam Pro Bono Director Shauna Rogers helped organize the event and is helping to organize another one.
The next free legal clinic is scheduled to take place at the center from noon to 3 p.m. July 19.
For more information, email probonolawyers@gmail.com.