The FCS Board of Directors collaborate voluntarily to support and grow Ferndale Community Services. By sharing ideas, providing leadership, and creating systems of accountability, they strive to ensure the viability of the organization and lend a helping hand when needed.
Current Board Members
Kara Silsbee- Board President
Kara has lived in Ferndale for most of her life, and has worked in human resources for 18+ years. The Ferndale community has taken care of her and her family over the years, and she is excited to give back. In her spare time she, her partner Dave and her son Lloyd love to search the beach for agates and walk or hike the many trails of Whatcom County.
Leela Nelson- Holcroft- Board Vice President
Nothing makes Leela happier than connecting with others. As a young girl she and her parents helped to feed the unhoused and low-income folks in her community. She started an anti-racism group in her high school. She is a local Massage Therapist and Realtor, who has a particular interest in sustainability. On her days off she enjoys time with her friends and family, working in her garden, or catching a live music show at one of the local venues. Leela currently serves as Board President.
Ken Rehberger- Board Treasurer
Ken, his wife and two children, were all born and raised in Ferndale, which has provided a wonderful place for them all to call home for many years. Outside of crunching numbers, he enjoys getting outside and trying to find the sunshine as much as possible. He is very excited to be a part of the team at FCS and help us continue making positive impacts across our community.
Heather Hinds- Board Secretary
Heather Hinds takes care of things. Professionally, she worked with children as a para-educator before moving to Washington and has worked with horses ever since. She has been the project coordinator for the Holiday Giving Store for many years, and involved with the program for even longer. She loves the Ferndale community and enjoys the opportunity to serve it. She joined the FCS board in 2017. Heather currently serves as Board Secretary and Treasurer.
Melinda Herrera
Melinda’s roots trace back to Texas, but she’s been flourishing in Whatcom County since 2008. With a professional background in eldercare, she’s spent years enhancing the lives of seniors, whether in the comfort of their own homes or within vibrant community settings. Nowadays, she channels her passion for service into her role as the Executive Director of a local nonprofit, committed to fostering community well-being and inspiring others to reach their full potential. Outside the office, Melinda’s often found cultivating her garden, enjoying some quality time on the water with her partner, tuning into her favorite podcasts, or playing with her adorable puppy, Lulu.
Rikki Larson
Rikki attended Ferndale schools, graduated from WWU and works for bp Cherry Point as an environmental water quality advisor. She is excited to support the broader community through her work with FCS, with a particular passion for the underserved and unhoused members of our community. In her spare time she enjoys mountaineering, hiking, backpacking, travelling and exploring the outdoors with her family and their German Shepherd rescue, Toby.
Toni Jefferson
Bio coming soon!
Komalpreet Brar
Bio coming soon!
Ryan O'Larey
Ryan is the City Council’s liaison to FCS. The City Council has liaisons to various different boards, commissions, groups, and non-profits both in Ferndale and beyond. FCS is an important partner for the City. Ryan attends FCS Board meetings and communicates key messages back to both Council and City Staff.
Staff
Sara O'Connor
Executive Director
Lorelei Bowers
Outreach Program Manager
Gabby Sierra Community Resource Navigator
Mary In Resource Center Coordinator
Ann Burfiend Youth Resource Navigator
JOIN OUR BOARD: We welcome anyone who cares about our community and wants to make a difference to enhance our mission. We are particularly interested in recruiting board members with experience in marketing and communications, fundraising, or non-profit governance. Click the links to read the position description and download the application. Or Contact Us for more information