Chris has an Electrical Engineering and Computer Programming background. She owned and ran her own business for many years. She started Birthday Dreams in 2009 in her garage. She has worn many hats through the years in her role as ED: volunteer coordinator, purchasing, gift wrapping, delivery driver, bookkeeper, Board Chair, grant writer, and many more. She also created the website and the inventory management program which are used in the day to day operations of the business. Chris is blessed to have an extremely strong, capable team who know how very important their mission is.
Jarod Drozdowski joined the team in 2021. As our Development Director, Jarod brings nearly 20 years of non-profit and fundraising management experience to our organization. In his professional career, Jarod has worked in arts/culture, academia, city government, and non-profit healthcare settings. One highlight was being the “Official Security Detail” for Santa and Mrs. Claus when he was the Event Director of the Christmas Lighting Ceremony in Leavenworth, WA. He is a proud dad of a terrific 10-year old son and a constantly-shedding 13 year old dog. Jarod holds a B.A. in Art History and a M.S. in Cultural Resource Management. In his spare time, Jarod enjoys hiking, camping, traveling, painting landscapes, photography, and continuing his research of ancient world cultures.
Heidi has a professional background in government affairs, health care policy and nonprofit management. As an active volunteer, Heidi found it especially meaningful to help at Birthday Dreams’ parties at Mary’s Place. She grew up in Colorado and holds a B.A. from Tulane University and an M.S.P.H. from the University of North Carolina. She is married with two young adult children and enjoys skiing, hiking, paddle boarding and traveling. During her husband’s 17 years in the military, Heidi lived everywhere from Hawaii to Oklahoma.
Robbie started working for Birthday Dreams as an intern in 2018. She has a background of 10 years in collections and customer service. Robenita is responsible for running the programs and coordinating with the agencies we partner with. She ensures that quality products are delivered. She is responsible for putting together birthday parties, and assisting with inventory tracking. She works with the local community, creating partnerships to provide locations for birthday parties. She has a way of talking to our clients that keeps them comfortable and ensures they get the services and contacts that they need.
Mary started as an intern in May of 2024. She previously served in the U.S. military and has a background in customer service, bookkeeping, payroll, accounts payable and receivable. In her role as Program Specialist, Mary ensures that children have amazing birthdays. Her attention to detail means that every party that leaves the office is sure to bring smiles to the children and families we serve. Mary loves her teenage daughter, traveling, meeting new people, and trying new experiences. She has lived in 8 different states!
Eight years ago, Leah volunteered with her 4th-grade son at the Kid’s Ninja Warrior event. Since then, she has had a great time wrapping gifts, taking photos at events, and representing Birthday Dreams at various organizations during their Day of Service. She also designed two of the projects our volunteers work on at community events. As the Community Events Coordinator, she loves teaming up with local organizations to create Give Back events that support the Birthday Dreams' mission. Leah says "working with the team at Birthday Dreams has been a joy. The staff genuinely cares about the families and children they serve, as well as those who pitch in at the office. Their dedication is truly making a difference. Being recognized as the Volunteer of the Year in 2024 and doing my part to support this mission has been an absolute blessing."
Karmen was introduced to Birthday Dreams when her son was invited to a friend's birthday party. Instead of bringing gifts, the invitation asked the guests to bring party supplies to donate to Birthday Dreams. Karmen was intrigued. She began dropping by the office, donating party supplies/gifts and offering to wrap presents. She was introduced to Leah Battin, the Community Events Coordinator. Since then, she has been an instrumental member of the Community Events Team. Karmen values the opportunity to represent Birthday Dreams at organizations hosting day of service events. Karmen works as a substitute paraeducator and is an active PTA member as well as a dedicated school volunteer. Supporting children academically, socially, and beyond fills her with joy.
Jenny is currently studying Computer Science at the University of Washington. In her spare time, she likes to read books, play her favorite classical pieces on the piano, and try new cafes (coffee lover here!) as she works on her CS projects. She's been a part of Birthday Dreams for 3 years now. Jenny tells us that "My whole experience with Birthday Dreams has been such a rewarding one. I feel like my efforts are contributing to something bigger in our community, and I love how creative I can be in my role within the marketing committee. I wanted to volunteer with Birthday Dreams because their vision resonated with me, and I wanted to be a part of it!"
Cece Cha is a junior at the University of Washington Bothell, pursuing a major in Health Studies with a focus on public health and healthcare. She is on a pre-physician assistant pathway, driven by her passion for improving health outcomes and making a difference in people’s lives. Outside of her studies, Cece enjoys ocean photography and hiking, both of which allow her to connect with her surroundings and reflect. Cece has been volunteering with Birthday Dreams for 3 years now and says, “The smiles that appear on the kids’ faces when they are being celebrated is why I love volunteering at Birthday Dreams. Birthdays are such an important aspect to celebrate, and Birthday Dreams ensures that everyone feels special on their day. I’m very grateful to be part of an organization that brings joy to children in need and helps make their birthdays memorable.”
Isabella is currently a high school Junior. She is the Stage Manager of Liberty Drama, a part of MUN, and an editor for the Patriot Press. In her fleeting free time, Isabella spends too much time on homework, cooks random things she finds on instagram, and works on whatever random project she is overcomplicating at the moment. More than anything, she loves helping people. After high school, Isabella wants to major in Political Science, then go on to study at law school in order to become a constitutional lawyer.
Elizabeth is currently a senior at Hazen High School and Bellevue College. In her free time, she likes to swim, play piano, and read books. After high school, she wants to pursue Computer Science or Applied Math.