Staff: Cynthia Nagao

Cynthia joined Friends Lane County as our first Family Engagement Specialist. Cynthia has a long history of serving youth and families in both Hawaii and Oregon. She has served in a variety of roles, including Site Coordinator for CAFA’s Supervised Visitation Program, Board Member and Youth Leader for Life Church in Thurston, and Treatment Foster Parent through OCP. In her role as Family Resource Coordinator at Hamlin Middle School for 14+ years, Cynthia has been the driving force behind multiple key initiatives such as Student Voice, Y.W.E. (Young Women Empowerment), HMS Career Fair, Game of Life, and a variety of mentoring programs. She also spearheaded several fundraising and community events for youth and families in need. . Prior to this, her 15+ years experience in hospitality and hotel management equipped her with a unique set of skills to pursue positive impacts for our community. She serves as a Co-Chair of the 90by30 Springfield Regional Leadership Team, and is involved in initiatives for developing a youth center in Springfield. Cynthia was introduced to Friends of the Children in 2018 and her passion for youth mentorship services made her an instant fan.

In her free time, you might find her at the coast, walking her dogs, tackling her latest DIY project, traveling, or spending quality time with friends or family.