With more than 25 years of experience supporting young adults, Amanda has dedicated her career to helping youth find stability, purpose, and possibility. She began their journey in Iowa as a Street Outreach Worker, connecting street-involved youth with safety, resources, and hope. That path led to Colorado, where for 15 years they served as a Juvenile Diversion Officer, working closely with young people and their families to create alternatives to the juvenile justice system—centering accountability, growth, and second chances.

Later, in New Orleans, Amanda joined the Tulane Drop-In Center as Program Coordinator and Housing Navigator, supporting runaway and homeless young adults in securing housing and accessing essential services on their path toward long-term stability.

Since relocating to Asheville in 2023, Amanda has continued to focus on strengthening opportunities for vulnerable youth within the community. As part of the Hood Huggers Foundation team, she's proud to contribute to a movement that merges art, community, and social change. She believes that young adults are vital to building strong, thriving neighborhoods, bringing energy, creativity, and vision to the work of transformation. With the right support, they become the future leaders and mentors who shape the places we all call home.