Our Staff
Leslie Bendjouya, Executive Director
Start date: Dec 2003
Leslie's core values revolve around harm reduction, self-determination, cultural sensitivity, community building, and grassroots organizing. Starting a high school drop out and teen welfare mom, Leslie rose from poverty and homelessness to graduate from Portland State University with highest honors. With fifteen years of paid social work experience Leslie is a consummate communicator known for her broad vision, fierce advocacy skills, and people-centered approach.
Motto: "Client is King"
Amber Barton, Assistant Director
Start date: 2004
Amber came on board with over ten years of relevant social service experience in the local community. She spent years assisting teen mothers to successfully get off public assistance. Amber�fs current passion is job developing. She assists clients in finding meaningful, long-term employment in their local community. Amber has paired her knowledge of EOE practices with innovative individualized techniques to assist clients in becoming capable assets to their employers.
Interesting fact: Amber owns five motorcycles.
Jean Rathfelder, Sign Language Specialist
Start date: December 2004
Jean graduated from Humbolt State University, California in 1982 with a Master�fs Degree in Psychology. Jean obtained a Certificate of Completion for American Sign Language (ASL) in 1986. Her professional experiences include ASL Interpreter, and Creator/Writer/Editor of a Business Association Newsletter.
Lena Royale, Independent Living Advocate
Lena graduated from Portland State University in 2006 with a BA in Women�fs Studies. Lena went on to complete a year of service with Americore before joining Bridges.
Interesting fact: Lena does math problems for fun...
Mia Bull, Independent Living Advocate
Start date: Dec 2008
Mia has a background in food service management and vocational training for persons with developmental disabilities. Patient and detail orientated Mia is reliable, persistent, and fun.
Interesting fact: Mia is a tattoo artist and makes her own tattoo guns.
Rachel Cooper, Independent Living Advocate
(coming soon!)