Michelle was born in the San Fernando Valley in Los Angeles, California. They studied international affairs at Lewis & Clark College and realized they wanted a career in social work. Prior to becoming a Friend, Michelle worked at Portland Homeless Family Solutions as a shelter coordinator and housing specialist to help houseless families obtain housing throughout Multnomah County. Michelle values the youth centered approach at Friends of the Children and loves that they have the opportunity to work and learn through the youth. Outside of FriendsPDX, they enjoy creating art, playing tennis, hosting dinner parties, making smoothies, and outdoor hangs with friends and family.