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.
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.
Miriah Jackson is a dedicated and detail-oriented professional at Birthday Dreams, where she plays a key role in organizing, decorating, and managing inventory to bring joy to children in need. She also assists in coordinating special events, ensuring each celebration is meaningful and memorable. Miriah holds a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Law and has pursued a Master’s degree in Business Management with a concentration in Project Management. Her educational background complements her strong organizational skills and her ability to adapt to a variety of responsibilities as needed. Her passion for creating joyful experiences stems from her own personal journey — having once been a child who went without a birthday celebration, Miriah finds deep purpose in using her creativity to make sure every child feels seen and celebrated. In her free time, she enjoys drawing and party decorating, bringing both talent and heart to every event she touches.
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.