Our Team
Zzaj Collins
Development Manager
Dr. Natalie Ellington
Founder & Executive Director
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I believe that storytelling has the power to strengthen communities and create real change. With more than 15 years in marketing and communications, I am passionate about using strategy, creativity, and collaboration to uplift voices that are too often overlooked. I am honored to serve the young women of ECP and to support the work being done on their behalf. I am grateful to bring my experience, leadership, and commitment to this team.
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When I consider my transitional years (when I was 18 and knew everything) when I was questioning all the craziness I was experiencing, I’m grateful that there were people that chose to help me even when I made it clear I didn’t want their help. I also know the pain of doing it on my own and wanting help that didn’t materialize. I recognize and appreciate that when I wasn’t lovable, someone loved me enough to tolerate my attitude, my selfishness and my rebellious behavior to get me through those seasons of life. Now that I’m older and wiser, it’s my turn to be there during the transitional years for these young ladies. Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of meeting and learning life lessons from some incredible women. I hope to be an incredible example to the young ladies we’ll serve through Eileen & Callie’s Place.
Ameeca Akram
Program Manager
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I believe people experience life stressors that create levels of trauma and can lead to their lives unraveling. My passion is to promote healing in their lives. I help participants, including families, adults, and children, to build healthy relationships with themselves and others.
My mission is fueled by my knowledge, education, and experiences.
Renee Metanoia
Operations Manager
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I believe to serve the community is to build up the community. I am excited to be a part of a team that is dedicated to supporting and showing up for the young ladies aging out of the foster care system, and where I believe my empathetic heart, joyful personality, and innovative thinking can be greatly utilized in the creation of ongoing support and resources for these beautiful and strong members of our community.
Eileen & Callie’s Place Interns
Jada Thomas
Intern
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I believe in uplifting those around me — spreading love and light with a supportive ear and an open heart.
I’m proud to be part of a safe, empowering community that cheers on young women as they embrace independence and build healthy, productive lives.
Chameka McGary
Intern
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I have always loved helping others and giving back, from tutoring youth, having a vast career in customer service, to simply being there as support for someone. Working at Eileen and Callie’s Place has opened my eyes and heart; it has shown me a whole other way to give back and support the community.
Brooklyn Ewing
Intern
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I Believe to serve the community is to STAND with the community. I am excited to be a part of a team that is dedicated to changing the lives of young women who are aging out of foster care. Being a foster kid myself, I understand the passion and dedication it takes to bring hope, a voice, and support to each young lady. I believe my empathetic heart and my gleeful personality give me the ability to connect with people. My background in youth and development can create a positive ongoing support for these incredible young women.
Board of Directors
Carmen Goers
Board President
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Carmen is a mother of 4 daughters and 6 grandchildren, all of whom reside in the South King County area of Western Washington. She enjoys family time and travel.
Carmen Goers brings more than two decades of leadership experience in finance, community advocacy, and public policy. A longtime Washington professional, she has worked closely with local businesses, nonprofit partners, and civic leaders to strengthen economic opportunity and support thriving communities. Carmen is known for her collaborative approach, strategic thinking, and commitment to accountability. Her work reflects a deep belief that strong organizations build strong communities. She is passionate about service, responsible stewardship, and creating pathways that expand opportunity for families and future generations.
Carmen is honored to serve and contribute her experience to advance the organization’s mission and impact.
In addition to serving on the Board of Eileen and Callie’s Place since 2020, Carmen serves by appointment on the City of Auburn Human Services Committee and the South Sound Chambers of Commerce Legislative Coalition, representing the business community.
Natasha Johnson
Vice President
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Natasha Johnson is a Washington-licensed attorney dedicated to strengthening communities and public institutions through law, service, and principled leadership. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Services from the University of Phoenix, a Juris Doctor from Regent University School of Law, and a Master’s in Communication with an emphasis in Servant Leadership from Gonzaga University. Her legal career has spanned family law, public defense, and nonprofit legal aid, including work with the Sexual Violence Law Center in Seattle, supporting survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. Natasha currently serves as a staff attorney with the Washington State Administrative Office of the Courts, where she analyzes legislation, develops statewide court forms, and collaborates with judges, court staff, and policymakers on issues ranging from mental health law to court procedures.
In addition to serving on the Board of Eileen & Callie’s Place, Natasha also provides governance leadership to HopeSparks Family Services in Tacoma, where she serves as both Secretary and Governance Chair, and Eileen & Callie’s Place in Kent, where she serves as Vice President. A lifelong learner, she values deep listening, careful observation, and thoughtful decision-making. Natasha values time with her family, remains active in her faith community, and finds inspiration in long drives and spontaneous adventures. Her ongoing mission is to mentor emerging attorneys and contribute to a more accessible, responsive legal system in Washington.
Arlyne Pinnok
Treasurer
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Arlyne was born and raised in Seattle and has been working in the banking industry for over 40 years, most recently with Wells Fargo Bank. Her primary focus is assisting small businesses during the current pandemic. She has served as a volunteer board member for non-profits focused on at risk youth for over 30 years. “When I heard about the wonderful program at Eileen and Callie’s Place, I said to myself, I would love to be a part of that. I moved out of my parents’ home at 20 years old. I could have stayed until I finished college, but I was eager to be on my own. I can’t imagine what it would be like to be forced out at 18.” Arlyne is an avid reader and loves to travel.
Samantha Krebs
Board Member
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Samantha Krebs was born and raised in Washington and is the oldest of four sisters. She has been married to her husband for four years and is the proud mother of two. Samantha works for a family-owned business and has a heart for serving her community, building meaningful connections, and supporting outreach that makes a difference. In her free time, she enjoys traveling and spending quality time with her family.