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1-16-2025

Dear Friends of Kids FIRST:

I am thrilled to announce that Kids FIRST will welcome Patty Perlow as our new Executive Director, beginning January 21, 2025. With decades of experience in leadership and advocacy, including serving as Lane County’s elected District Attorney, Patty’s knowledge of Kids FIRST’s mission and its multidisciplinary team is extensive. She’s worked alongside the organization in various capacities, from prosecutor to Board Vice President, since its inception. Patty's experience, legislative expertise, and her dedication to child safety make her uniquely suited to lead the organization into its next chapter. 

“It’s an honor to join Kids FIRST as Executive Director,” Patty shared. “Throughout my career and the positions I’ve held, protecting our most vulnerable has always been my priority. Kids FIRST embodies that mission by providing safety, support, and hope to children and families in need. I’m excited to join this incredible team and look forward to building on the strong foundation Sarah and her team have created.” 

 

As you know, our long-time Executive Director, Sarah Stewart, will be stepping into a new role as Managing Director. In this role, Sarah will oversee programming and grants, provide support to our diverse multidisciplinary team, and work to expand the organization’s impact.  

 

“As Managing Director, I’m looking forward to supporting our incredible team members and the programs that make such a difference for children and families,” Sarah shared. “We’ve grown exponentially over the past few years, and I am deeply committed to ensuring that our teams have the resources and support they need to thrive. I am looking forward to partnering with Patty, someone I have always respected and admired, to continue to move Kids FIRST forward.” 

 

Kids FIRST Board President, Amy Tidwell, noted, “The partnership between Sarah and Patty embodies the best of Kids FIRST. Their combined expertise and shared passion for child advocacy will be incredibly powerful in service to our community’s children. We are thrilled to support their leadership in driving the organization forward in exciting ways.” 

  

As we embark on this new chapter, we are deeply grateful for your continued support. Your commitment means the world to us, and we’re eager to share the journey ahead with you. 

Sincerely,

 

Jamie Louie-Smith 

Immediate Past President 

Kids FIRST Board of Directors 

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