https://www.upstreampublichealth.com/home daily 1.0 2026-03-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/d0cdddd5-3168-4161-8864-57fabc7a87e1/TOFCO+Logo+gradient+.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/1fb4d4af-b85c-401e-82b6-deb292e0abba/unnamed+%281%29.png Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/473d02c7-a7f9-4e4c-94e7-4f0ff2ef7102/Your+paragraph+text+%281%29.png Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/1772184496487-82TLPOY2IZEJ10FJAMRI/unsplash-image-XmMsdtiGSfo.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/d0a3f7ae-680f-4d99-babb-d00f9588e5b6/Copy+of+Multco-REACH-logo-full+color+%281%29+%281%29.png Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/b769d236-7ced-41e5-ad97-374e19b66240/Official+Spanish+Logo+%281%29.png Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/1717453909323-DYPOTOT46T7LOBJDUS5H/IMG_3944.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/38af674d-3b30-498e-8888-8541b2e18e21/IMG_1530.PNG https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/d17c7af9-8ab4-48d9-9e64-05c2c95eeb8d/IMG_1507.PNG https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/d0cdddd5-3168-4161-8864-57fabc7a87e1/TOFCO+Logo+gradient+.jpg Home - Commercial Tobacco Use Prevention Commercial tobacco use is still the leading preventable cause of death in Oregon and the US, disproportionally impacting BIPOC communities, the LGBTQIA2S community, people with disabilities, and those experiencing poverty. Upstream supports bans on flavored tobacco, especially menthol cigarettes, as well as vape and hookah. Upstream supports other, best and emerging commercial tobacco use prevention strategies, as well. In 2022 and 2023, we worked with The Center for Black Health and Equity to build coalition capacity in Multnomah County and beyond! Our coalition, TOFCO, meets twice a month over zoom and occasionally in person. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/473d02c7-a7f9-4e4c-94e7-4f0ff2ef7102/Your+paragraph+text+%281%29.png Home - TOFCO Youth Ambassadors Through our work with The Center for Black Health and Equity, we launched a Youth Ambassador program in early 2023 with an aim to empower African immigrant youth to advocate for their health. Our work with TOFCO Youth Ambassadors continues in 2024 with many educational and tabling events. The Youth Ambassadors continue to meet monthly. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/db97a441-8749-4c5f-b52f-f9ca761bdf7d/roots+to+recovery.png Home - Polysubstance Use Prevention and Advocacy In early 2025, we began working with organizations in the Portland Metro Area to build a supportive community focused on the education and prevention of polysubstance use disorders and fentanyl overdose. Our Roots to Recovery coalition focuses on advocacy and power building education with Black-led and community-based organizations. Please reach out via the email below if you’re interested in joining us! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/1717453909323-DYPOTOT46T7LOBJDUS5H/IMG_3944.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/1770927142846-L743EU1GBIUSVBRAZBCP/Image_20260212_102712_613.jpeg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/4b37d358-cd2d-40d8-8612-ef8e20deded0/IMG_1511.PNG Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/1703873575742-HQGMKVYL269O0H2PPPEK/1D185B37-FCA1-49A7-8C43-9AD4B1EBE031+2.JPG Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/1708994948465-E1S14L5IX555XCZ5I87C/IMG_3818.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/c2307603-654b-476e-acd4-4893b2fe2481/IMG_1577.PNG Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/a337c70b-3838-4448-b433-a41cbef88eae/IMG_1580.PNG Home 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https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/65a23d35-f77a-4e3b-85ab-847744c0fdd7/IMG_1583.PNG Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/4460ebd2-4101-4800-9022-98dab511573c/IMG_1582.PNG Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/1717453406984-B4O2834O88UFAY5WQPBI/IMG_8916.jpg Home - Tabling at World No Tobacco Day 2024 Upstream staff and TOFCO Youth ambassador share information about quitting tobacco with two festival attendees. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/1717453909233-H8SB7X4QBGBASRWO8HI3/IMG_7936.jpg Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/ff106e81-ee83-43f5-8108-516e0a59ab8d/IMG_1500.PNG Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/9aeb78b8-f81e-40dc-99f9-e7c8b90f5cf6/IMG_1501.PNG Home 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https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/374da7f1-798c-4e13-b53c-b94cb9d84211/IMG_1569.PNG Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/a469e5db-756b-4465-837d-c2ef1e96bdb9/IMG_1533.PNG Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/23deb16d-4fd3-4c38-ac31-cbb4074acb09/IMG_1539.PNG Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/937fedae-15ac-4491-ba3b-72e75da9845f/IMG_1541.PNG Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/b1963b5f-7049-4e20-90cd-fedbe3409f9e/IMG_1545.PNG Home https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/aec88eff-46f2-4564-8c4f-60303fd4e627/IMG_1547.PNG Home https://www.upstreampublichealth.com/projects daily 0.75 2026-02-27 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/1488930243083-CB6NC5AZ0B5STYAB6P39/vegetables-2.jpg Projects https://www.upstreampublichealth.com/mission daily 0.75 2026-03-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/1489101864457-24YDSPAZQR7GY1EVGPYS/P1010934.jpg Mission https://www.upstreampublichealth.com/about-us daily 0.75 2026-03-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/1623194313317-E89O88X1LCGP8RMLJTPA/unsplash-image-V1YPvfNzvtw.jpg About Us - About Us https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/1677018531315-YD3UCDQ1GWC0QD074QMB/unsplash-image-skCv4uML-2Q.jpg About Us - Board of Directors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/1677018676825-EB17SEVMFP66QH8E1PT8/unsplash-image-hgLk4h8AkJY.jpg About Us - Current Staff https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/46745275-3c8c-4886-b1ad-7f3c09a841ee/4FCB31BB-484B-428B-820A-C0D2CC4D76F4+2.jpg About Us - Lillie Jones Manvel (she/her), Executive Director Lillie Jones Manvel comes to Upstream after working in community organizing and the academic health care sector. A South Carolina native, Lillie graduated from the University of South Carolina, Columbia, with a major in Anthropology. After moving to Oregon in 2000, Lillie was a leading community organizer and fundraiser for State Public Interest Research Groups (PIRGs) before moving to Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), where she helped develop pre-award grant applications, leading to millions of dollars of basic science funding. While at OHSU, Lillie earned a Master's Degree in Public Health from the Hatfield School of Government at Portland State University, and subsequently worked as a hospice volunteer. Before joining Upstream in 2019, Lillie was full-time caregiver of her mother and two young children. Lillie comes from a long line of commercial tobacco users, farmers, and businessmen and is privileged to be in a position to disrupt the hundreds of years of devastation that the industry continues to do in communities around the US. Lillie lives in Salem with her husband, kiddos and two cats, just down the road from her mom. In her volunteer time, Lillie works to prevent gun violence. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/34c5958c-7eee-4587-bfdf-77feb763b124/IMG_4688+%281%29.jpg About Us - Yesenia Morales Santos (she/they), Project Associate Yesenia is a first generation college graduate from Portland State University with a degree in Community Promotion and a minor in Spanish. Yesenia comes from a family of agricultural workers, growing up she saw her parents waking up at dawn to work and coming back at dusk. Witnessing the hard work her parents did to support her and her siblings drove her to be passionate about helping the Latinx community. She has worked with the Hillsboro school district as an AVID tutor helping students navigate their educational journeys. Additionally, she was a career peer advisor for Rock Creek Community College in assisting students navigating college programs and information. Recently she worked as an undergraduate research assistant researching autism, health disparity and accessibility in underserved communities at Oregon Health and Science University. Throughout her work she has promoted equity and accessibility. Yesenia wants for everyone to have equitable access to health services no matter the circumstances. For fun Yesenia likes to try different bubble tea shops. She also finds the importance of connecting with yourself and your body so she does yoga and lifts weights! ___ Yesenia es una graduada universitaria de primera generación de la Universidad Estatal de Portland con un título en Promoción Comunitaria y una especialización en español. Yesenia proviene de una familia de trabajadores agrícolas, al crecer vio a sus padres despertarse muy temprano para trabajar y regresar muy tarde. Ser testigo del trabajo duro que sus padres hicieron para apoyarla a ella y a sus hermanos la llevó a ser apasionada por ayudar a la comunidad latina. Ha trabajado con el distrito escolar de Hillsboro como tutora de AVID ayudando a los estudiantes a navegar su educación. Además, fue asesora de pares profesionales para Rock Creek Community College ayudando a los estudiantes navegando programas e información de la universidad. Recientemente trabajó como asistente de investigación de pregrado investigando el autismo, la disparidad de salud y la accesibilidad en comunidades desatendidas en la Universidad de Salud y Ciencias de Oregon. A lo largo de su trabajo, ha promovido la equidad y la accesibilidad. Yesenia quiere que todos tengan un acceso equitativo a los servicios de salud sin importar las circunstancias. Por diversión, a Yesenia le gusta probar diferentes tiendas de bubble tea. También hace yoga y levanta pesas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/a8127cbe-2694-4d6c-b2fd-d75e9203c752/IMG_6660.jpg About Us - Natalie Nicklas “Allie” (she/her), Projects Lead Allie was born and raised in Seattle, WA, and later moved to Portland, OR to attend Portland State University (PSU), where she graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Public Health: Community Health Promotion. Allie is deeply passionate about traveling and learning from different cultures. In 2007, she lived in Thailand teaching English to children, and in 2017, she spent nearly three months solo backpacking through Europe. These experiences have shaped her strong sense of empathy and fueled her commitment to community well-being, particularly in the areas of food insecurity and health equity. Allie lives in Tualatin, OR with her husband, their dog and cat, and they are excitedly expecting their first child in late September 2025. Outside of the professional world, she enjoys hiking, cooking, baking, and reading. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/87a036d3-3aeb-4460-9fd1-f09a2bc26fbb/067EB94C-0D8B-46A6-8BE6-6B2A18377321.jpg About Us - Hudda Osman, Associate Project Manager Hudda Osman is passionate about positively impacting the nonprofit sector. Hudda has a bachelor’s degree in Public Health and a Master’s degree in Public Administration, specializing in Health Administration. She is dedicated to creating change that truly matters. When not busy with her work, you can find her baking delicious treats and spending quality time with her loved ones. Maintaining a good work-life balance is important to her, as it allows her to recharge and approach my work with renewed energy. Hudda’s has career experience in various areas, including mental health, hospital systems, and nonprofit organizations. These experiences have given her a holistic understanding of nonprofit work and its unique challenges. Currently, Hudda is an Associate Project Manager at Upstream, where she actively plans and executes impactful projects. Focusing on driving positive change for BIPOC youths in Oregon, combating tobacco-related issues and health inequalities, and finding innovative solutions to improve health outcomes and quality of life. Hudda is committed to making a difference in the lives of individuals and communities, pursuing a healthier future. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/8663a591-1d26-4592-b118-d7eeafb94ba7/IMG_4283.jpg About Us - Bethy Temelso (she/her), Coalition Organizer Bethy Temelso, a proud Eritrean immigrant, established her roots in the United States in 2008 and has since made Portland her home. Fueled by a passion for her cultural heritage, Bethy co-founded an Eritrean coffee catering venture, Alena Doe, alongside her friend. Bethy is on the path to earning her bachelor's degree in Political Science from Portland State University, pursuing her longtime fascination with the impact of law on society. Alongside that, she is minoring in Black Studies and Communication Studies. Outside the academic world Bethy loves to bake, trying new recipes almost every week! She loves being outdoors (as long as she can stay warm). She enjoys trying whatever is the newest vegan spot, spending time at coffee shops, and obsessing over the current hobby. Time Bethy spends with her family and friends is highly cherished and is what rejuvenates her and keeps her going. Currently Bethy is at Upstream Public Health as a Coalition Organizer working to advocate for commercial tobacco use prevention policy and systems changes in the Portland metro area. She can’t wait to contribute as much as she can to her community and beyond! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/18ece918-4f5a-40b1-8e09-6689fd7391ea/IMG_2374.jpg About Us - Mahlet Alemayohu (she/her), Youth Coordinator Mahlet is a first generation Ethiopian- American female living here in the PNW for 15 years. She graduated from PSU in 2022 with a Social Science Major and Minor in Black Studies. She has worked in the SE Portland Community for nearly 10 years. Starting as a Lifeguard for public pools, working as a swim instructor, volunteering in urban farms and greenhouses, and now as a Youth Coordinator here at Upstream - focusing on the TOFCO Youth Ambassadors and Upstream Academy. Mahlet has a passion for open water, traveling, and making those around her laugh uncontrollably. Fun fact: Mahlet is a true empath and cries at least once a day (sometimes more)! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/1623194313317-E89O88X1LCGP8RMLJTPA/unsplash-image-V1YPvfNzvtw.jpg About Us - About Us https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/1677018531315-YD3UCDQ1GWC0QD074QMB/unsplash-image-skCv4uML-2Q.jpg About Us - Board of Directors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/1677018676825-EB17SEVMFP66QH8E1PT8/unsplash-image-hgLk4h8AkJY.jpg About Us - Current Staff https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/18ece918-4f5a-40b1-8e09-6689fd7391ea/IMG_2374.jpg About Us - Mahlet Alemayohu (she/her), Youth Coordinator Mahlet is a first generation Ethiopian- American female living here in the PNW for 15 years. She graduated from PSU in 2022 with a Social Science Major and Minor in Black Studies. She has worked in the SE Portland Community for nearly 10 years. Starting as a Lifeguard for public pools, working as a swim instructor, volunteering in urban farms and greenhouses, and now as a Youth Coordinator here at Upstream - focusing on the TOFCO Youth Ambassadors and Upstream Academy. Mahlet has a passion for open water, traveling, and making those around her laugh uncontrollably. Fun fact: Mahlet is a true empath and cries at least once a day (sometimes more)! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/761b7db4-cebb-4288-9f7e-73cf080e8443/IMG_8122_polarr.jpeg About Us - Melissa Belmontes (she/her/ella), Program Manager Melissa Belmontes is a first-generation Latina and Illinois native whose work is rooted in a deep commitment to community, equity, and service. Since moving to Oregon in 2020, she has built a career in public health with a focus on commercial tobacco and polysubstance use prevention, policy and advocacy, and cross-sector collaboration. Melissa currently serves as a Project Manager supporting regional prevention efforts across Oregon. In her role, she partners with Regional Health Equity Coalitions (RHECs) to develop and implement projects that advance commercial tobacco prevention and education. She also leads the Oregon Prevention & Treatment Alliance, a statewide coalition working to strengthen prevention and treatment systems through coordinated, equity-centered approaches. Her professional experience includes work in community-based organizations in Oregon, as well as housing services, where she supported individuals navigating housing instability through trauma-informed, person-centered care. Prior to her work in Oregon, Melissa built a strong foundation in education in Illinois and Wisconsin. She taught introductory public speaking at Illinois State University and worked with middle and high school students in pre-college programs at the University of Wisconsin–Oshkosh, supporting students as they prepared for higher education. Across all of her roles, Melissa is guided by the belief that meaningful change happens when communities are centered, heard, and supported. She is passionate about advancing health equity, expanding access to opportunity, and building systems that reflect the needs and strengths of the communities they serve. Outside of her professional work, Melissa enjoys spending time in and around water—swimming, kayaking, paddle boarding, white water rafting, and scuba diving—and exploring the outdoors through hiking and travel. She values time with her family, especially her baby niece, and enjoys creative outlets like crafting, caring for her plants, and reading books filled with dragons, fairies, and witches. Since moving to Oregon, she has embraced new challenges with the mindset that growth happens on the other side of fear, finding inspiration in nature and its everyday magic. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/de4c728d-095d-4176-823d-fa841163cd4c/IMG_6387.JPG About Us - Eva Buford (she/her), School Tobacco Policy Analyst Intern Eva is an MPH student at Oregon State University concentrating in Health Systems and Policy. She graduated from Oregon State in 2025 with her Bachelor’s degree in Public Health Management and Policy with a minor in Business. Eva is passionate about building inclusive, responsive, and sustainable health systems while reducing barriers to make healthcare more accessible. Outside of her work at Upstream, Eva works at a local coffee chain in Corvallis. A Corvallis native, Eva loves to spend her time with her friends and family, exploring outside, and reading. She also enjoys staying active and traveling. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/580d3108-91b2-4368-ba23-f7034b26e1a3/IMG_1012.jpg About Us - Haoua Dogo (she/her), Organizing Director Haoua Dogo is a community builder and advocate advancing equity for immigrants, refugees, international students, and youth across Multnomah and Lane County. She studied Planning, Public Policy, and Management (PPPM) and Marketing at the University of Oregon, where she worked with the Womxn’s Center and Wesley Center supporting gender equity, student advocacy, and community care initiatives. In Commercial Tobacco Prevention, Haoua revitalized the TOFCO coalition, facilitating it for two years, rebuilding its infrastructure, and launching a youth program that expanded its reach. After strengthening the coalition’s foundation, she transitioned facilitation to new leadership to ensure sustainability and continued community direction. She leads Polysubstance Use Prevention through the Roots to Recovery Coalition and organizing the launch of the Oregon Prevention & Treatment Alliance, a new statewide coalition created by Upstream Public Health to strengthen prevention and treatment efforts across Oregon. Haoua also co-chairs ACHIEVE alongside Multnomah County REACH, facilitating one of the largest networks of Black-led and Black-serving organizations advancing racial justice and health equity across Multnomah County and Oregon. With experience in digital campaigns, web design, venture capital, and SEO, she blends strategy, creativity, and organizing to drive community-led change. Outside of work, she enjoys photography, hiking, design, and exploring new foods https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/46745275-3c8c-4886-b1ad-7f3c09a841ee/4FCB31BB-484B-428B-820A-C0D2CC4D76F4+2.jpg About Us - Lillie Jones Manvel (she/her), Executive Director Lillie Jones Manvel comes to Upstream after working in community organizing and the academic health care sector. A South Carolina native, Lillie graduated from the University of South Carolina, Columbia, with a major in Anthropology. After moving to Oregon in 2000, Lillie was a leading community organizer and fundraiser for State Public Interest Research Groups (PIRGs) before moving to Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), where she helped develop pre-award grant applications, leading to millions of dollars of basic science funding. While at OHSU, Lillie earned a Master's Degree in Public Health from the Hatfield School of Government at Portland State University, and subsequently worked as a hospice volunteer. Before joining Upstream in 2019, Lillie was full-time caregiver of her mother and two young children. Lillie comes from a long line of commercial tobacco users, farmers, and businessmen and is privileged to be in a position to disrupt the hundreds of years of devastation that the industry continues to do in communities around the US. Lillie lives in Salem with her husband, kiddos and two cats, just down the road from her mom. In her volunteer time, Lillie works to prevent gun violence. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/34c5958c-7eee-4587-bfdf-77feb763b124/IMG_4688+%281%29.jpg About Us - Yesenia Morales Santos (she/they), Project Associate Yesenia is a first generation college graduate from Portland State University with a degree in Community Promotion and a minor in Spanish. Yesenia comes from a family of agricultural workers, growing up she saw her parents waking up at dawn to work and coming back at dusk. Witnessing the hard work her parents did to support her and her siblings drove her to be passionate about helping the Latinx community. She has worked with the Hillsboro school district as an AVID tutor helping students navigate their educational journeys. Additionally, she was a career peer advisor for Rock Creek Community College in assisting students navigating college programs and information. Recently she worked as an undergraduate research assistant researching autism, health disparity and accessibility in underserved communities at Oregon Health and Science University. Throughout her work she has promoted equity and accessibility. Yesenia wants for everyone to have equitable access to health services no matter the circumstances. For fun Yesenia likes to try different bubble tea shops. She also finds the importance of connecting with yourself and your body so she does yoga and lifts weights! ___ Yesenia es una graduada universitaria de primera generación de la Universidad Estatal de Portland con un título en Promoción Comunitaria y una especialización en español. Yesenia proviene de una familia de trabajadores agrícolas, al crecer vio a sus padres despertarse muy temprano para trabajar y regresar muy tarde. Ser testigo del trabajo duro que sus padres hicieron para apoyarla a ella y a sus hermanos la llevó a ser apasionada por ayudar a la comunidad latina. Ha trabajado con el distrito escolar de Hillsboro como tutora de AVID ayudando a los estudiantes a navegar su educación. Además, fue asesora de pares profesionales para Rock Creek Community College ayudando a los estudiantes navegando programas e información de la universidad. Recientemente trabajó como asistente de investigación de pregrado investigando el autismo, la disparidad de salud y la accesibilidad en comunidades desatendidas en la Universidad de Salud y Ciencias de Oregon. A lo largo de su trabajo, ha promovido la equidad y la accesibilidad. Yesenia quiere que todos tengan un acceso equitativo a los servicios de salud sin importar las circunstancias. Por diversión, a Yesenia le gusta probar diferentes tiendas de bubble tea. También hace yoga y levanta pesas. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/a8127cbe-2694-4d6c-b2fd-d75e9203c752/IMG_6660.jpg About Us - Natalie “Allie” Nicklas (she/her), Projects Lead Allie was born and raised in Seattle, WA, and later moved to Portland, OR to attend Portland State University (PSU), where she graduated summa cum laude with a degree in Public Health: Community Health Promotion. Allie is deeply passionate about traveling and learning from different cultures. In 2007, she lived in Thailand teaching English to children, and in 2017, she spent nearly three months solo backpacking through Europe. These experiences have shaped her strong sense of empathy and fueled her commitment to community well-being, particularly in the areas of food insecurity and health equity. Allie lives in Tualatin, OR with her husband, their dog and cat, and they are excitedly expecting their first child in late September 2025. Outside of the professional world, she enjoys hiking, cooking, baking, and reading. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/87a036d3-3aeb-4460-9fd1-f09a2bc26fbb/067EB94C-0D8B-46A6-8BE6-6B2A18377321.jpg About Us - Hudda Osman, Associate Project Manager Hudda Osman is passionate about positively impacting the nonprofit sector. Hudda has a bachelor’s degree in Public Health and a Master’s degree in Public Administration, specializing in Health Administration. She is dedicated to creating change that truly matters. When not busy with her work, you can find her baking delicious treats and spending quality time with her loved ones. Maintaining a good work-life balance is important to her, as it allows her to recharge and approach my work with renewed energy. Hudda’s has career experience in various areas, including mental health, hospital systems, and nonprofit organizations. These experiences have given her a holistic understanding of nonprofit work and its unique challenges. Currently, Hudda is an Associate Project Manager at Upstream, where she actively plans and executes impactful projects. Focusing on driving positive change for BIPOC youths in Oregon, combating tobacco-related issues and health inequalities, and finding innovative solutions to improve health outcomes and quality of life. Hudda is committed to making a difference in the lives of individuals and communities, pursuing a healthier future. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/1fac4e28-4d5c-43da-941b-fe4cb71012b2/cpm35+2024-08-07+113942.862.jpg About Us - Stephanie Plascencia (she/her), Community Organizer Stephanie is a first-generation Los Angeles native who is passionate about building strong, connected communities and supporting youth and families facing challenging life circumstances. She earned her degree in Business Marketing and Psychology from California State University, Los Angeles. Her professional experience spans education, nonprofit, corporate, and international settings. Through these diverse roles, she developed a strong foundation in relationship building and process improvement, allowing her to navigate complex environments and support collaborative, community driven solutions. She brings these strengths into community and nonprofit work, helping create sustainable structures that support long term impact and equitable access to services. Stephanie has also lived and worked internationally, including in New Zealand, Australia and Japan. These diverse experiences broadened her understanding of community resilience and the importance of inclusive, people centered approaches across different systems and communities. After moving to Oregon six years ago, Stephanine developed a deep appreciation for the strength and connection found in small communities. She is especially passionate about bridging gaps for Spanish-speaking community members, ensuring they not only have access to information and services, but also meaningful opportunities to share their voices, perspectives, and leadership in shaping community decisions. Outside of work, Stephanie enjoys being a new mama and spending time with her husband at home or at their automotive shop, Peaceful AutoHouse. She enjoys getting outdoors, strength training, meal prepping, going to coffee shops, hanging out with friends and neighbors on the block—an LA native happily embracing small town life. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/8663a591-1d26-4592-b118-d7eeafb94ba7/IMG_4283.jpg About Us - Bethy Temelso (she/her), Coalition Organizer Bethy Temelso, a proud Eritrean immigrant, established her roots in the United States in 2008 and has since made Portland her home. Fueled by a passion for her cultural heritage, Bethy co-founded an Eritrean coffee catering venture, Alena Doe, alongside her friend. Bethy is on the path to earning her bachelor's degree in Political Science from Portland State University, pursuing her longtime fascination with the impact of law on society. Alongside that, she is minoring in Black Studies and Communication Studies. Outside the academic world Bethy loves to bake, trying new recipes almost every week! She loves being outdoors (as long as she can stay warm). She enjoys trying whatever is the newest vegan spot, spending time at coffee shops, and obsessing over the current hobby. Time Bethy spends with her family and friends is highly cherished and is what rejuvenates her and keeps her going. Currently Bethy is at Upstream Public Health as a Coalition Organizer working to advocate for commercial tobacco use prevention policy and systems changes in the Portland metro area. She can’t wait to contribute as much as she can to her community and beyond! https://www.upstreampublichealth.com/board-of-directors daily 0.75 2026-03-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/1623244024994-LN6NFWOE60MVFD5LPSJU/unsplash-image-skCv4uML-2Q.jpg Board of Directors - Board of Directors https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/1623244024994-LN6NFWOE60MVFD5LPSJU/unsplash-image-skCv4uML-2Q.jpg Board of Directors https://www.upstreampublichealth.com/weight-inclusion daily 0.75 2026-02-12 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/d82e5545-2540-4e8d-a93c-0ccae5e5a149/allgo-an-app-for-plus-size-people-ytfVEhHTuKY-unsplash.jpg Weight Inclusion Photo description: A joyful photo of two white-presenting fat women in an office setting. The one with curly hair in a mustard yellow sleeveless mock turtleneck is laughing a lot and the one with short straight hair in a white shirt with a sapphire blue cardigan is laughing a little. Both are wearing glasses. Photo credit to: AllGo - An App For Plus Size People on Unsplash https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/d82e5545-2540-4e8d-a93c-0ccae5e5a149/allgo-an-app-for-plus-size-people-ytfVEhHTuKY-unsplash.jpg Weight Inclusion Photo description: A joyful photo of two white-presenting fat women in an office setting. The one with curly hair in a mustard yellow sleeveless mock turtleneck is laughing a lot and the one with short straight hair in a white shirt with a sapphire blue cardigan is laughing a little. Both are wearing glasses. Photo credit to: AllGo - An App For Plus Size People on Unsplash https://www.upstreampublichealth.com/upstream-academy daily 0.75 2026-02-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/473d02c7-a7f9-4e4c-94e7-4f0ff2ef7102/Your+paragraph+text+%281%29.png https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/473d02c7-a7f9-4e4c-94e7-4f0ff2ef7102/Your+paragraph+text+%281%29.png Upstream Academy Image Description: The Upstream logo in orange with light orange background. "Upstream Academy" is dark brown in all caps at the bottom with a graduation cap graphic in the same color brown above the word Upstream. https://www.upstreampublichealth.com/tofco daily 0.75 2026-03-04 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/1717453909323-DYPOTOT46T7LOBJDUS5H/IMG_3944.jpg https://www.upstreampublichealth.com/roots2recovery daily 0.75 2026-02-20 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/db97a441-8749-4c5f-b52f-f9ca761bdf7d/unnamed+%281%29.png https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ec321c2af33de48734cc929/1755204561953-05X58ATCEAQC9V1M9M3Y/imgg-demo-vQMIqYLz.png https://www.upstreampublichealth.com/tobacco-free-coalition-of-oregon daily 0.75 2026-02-26 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/5b265bf3-c969-4e3f-a814-449462210589/IMG_1511.PNG https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/58bf165ee4fcb595c2994eef/0f757db9-1ead-4fab-b5f7-8123fbe60c83/IMG_1515.PNG