Heart of Oregon Corps announces the promotion of Kara Johnson to Deputy Director. This is a new role for the organization that will lead programming, and advance Heart of Oregon’s mission and impact.

Kara, a Madras, Oregon resident who has been with Heart of Oregon for twelve years as Program Director, brings a wealth of experience and community connections to the new position. Kara is a certified Child and Youth Care trainer who has earned numerous national awards, including the YouthBuild USA’s President’s Award for supporting YouthBuild young leaders, and is currently serving on the national Rural Youth Work Group through the Rural Youth Catalyst Project to support young people, and support youth leadership, in rural communities.

Prior to joining Heart of Oregon Corps, Kara began her career in service to the community acting in varying positions in both school-age before and after school programs, summer day camps, and Early Childhood Education programs at the Treasure Valley Family YMCA in Boise, Idaho for 12 years. Kara also served as a TEACH Counselor through the Idaho Association for the Education of Young Children providing scholarship support for Child and Youth Care Professionals throughout the state of Idaho to pursue higher education opportunities within the Early Childhood Education field. Kara received her BS in Exercise Science and Physical Education from the College of Idaho, and received her teaching certificate K-12 through Boise State University.

In 2010, Kara and her family were blessed with the birth of an exceptional child, Jace, who is now 12 years old. Jace was diagnosed with Down syndrome soon after he was born, and the hands-on experience of raising a child with cognitive delays and health issues inspired Kara and her family to become advocates for children and adults with disabilities.