June 16, 2021, SEATTLE – YouthCare announced the hiring of Jennifer Patterson to the position of Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective June 1, 2021. Patterson will report to Melinda Giovengo, Ph.D., CEO & President of YouthCare. In her new role, Patterson will be a member of YouthCare’s organizational leadership team and will work to enhance internal operations and organizational development. Patterson is joining the organization during an exciting time of expansion as YouthCare recently introduced a new partnership with One Roof Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the NHL’s Seattle Kraken. YouthCare is also working on several impactful projects that will maximize the mission of advocating for the bright futures that homeless youth deserve.

“YouthCare’s work in providing equitable resources that pave the way for youth to not just survive, but thrive, is nothing short of inspiring,” said Patterson. “Throughout my career, I have felt impassioned by work that provides necessary resources to young people so that they can create the life they want for themselves, and YouthCare embodies this mission so well. I am excited for the days and months ahead!”

As COO, Patterson will be further charged with designing and implementing business operations, establishing policies that promote organizational culture and vision. The goal of the YouthCare COO position is to secure the functionality of the organization to drive extensive and sustainable growth in the future.

Patterson previously served more than 20 years in library leadership roles, most recently being appointed by Governor Brown as the Director of the State Library of Oregon. In these positions, Patterson developed a fine-tuned expertise in budget and policy development and management, strategic planning, and human resources. She has led efforts within her organizations, such as the development of the State Library Anti-racism, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Statement and Goals, that have relied on her collaborative and tactical leadership skills to result in powerful outcomes.

“Jennifer’s background and skillset make her an incredible force in the fight against youth homelessness and we are honored to bring her onto our team,” said Melinda Giovengo, CEO & President of YouthCare. “She has the ability to strategize complex program dynamics that will be invaluable to allocating our resources in the most productive way.”

Patterson has a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Colorado Denver and a Master of Library and Information Science degree from the University of California Los Angeles. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Northern Colorado.