Annie was born and raised in Phoenix, Arizona, and went to school for environmental science in Flagstaff, Arizona. She is currently pursuing her BA in special education through an online university, and has worked in special education for 5 years. Annie was drawn to Friends of the Children—Portland after seeing the love and energy the staff members put into their everyday interactions. The relationships she builds are one of the most exciting parts of her journey here at FriendsPDX. In her free time, she loves gardening, learning about permaculture (utilizing renewable energy sources), playing card and board games with friends, and cooking.