Kari has always looked for ways to help others.  

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Strengthening families and building communities - she has worked throughout her successful 45 year career to expand opportunities for children and youth and young people. help families thrive and care for the most vulnerable.  

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Foregoing a legal career, she worked in the nonprofit sector, in higher education, health care and social services raising funds, and as a grantmaker distributing $25 million a year to help children and rural communities. 

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Faith, hard work, intelligence, integrity, experience, knowledge, luck - all have contributed to her overcoming personal challenges.  She is especially grateful for over 11 years of sobriety.