Christina Brown

38 | Chief Program Officer, Spectrum Youth & Family Services
Residence: Chittenden

Career highlight: The highlights that stand out to me most are those moments during which my team provided care with creativity, resilience, and adaptability against the odds – days that we delivered food to youth in hotels in 2020; nights trekking through the snow to make sure someone was there to open the Drop-In Center in the storm; relocating our shelter residents during a flood. All of these experiences, and countless others, in which I was able to play a small part on a team that moves our programs and services through crises in order to reach the young people who trust us to be there.

Community involvement: My community involvement stems from my work with youth experiencing homelessness – the advocacy that I participate in and opportunities that I take to educate and outreach in my community are grounded in this core commitment. 

I previously spent several years as the volunteer Director of a national non-profit advancing awareness around maternal mental health through outdoor adventure and community connection. As a mom of two young kiddos, it is important to me to be connected to other parenting folks in my community and offer support and resources on this journey. 

I spent many years volunteering with both Habitat for Humanity and Girls on the Run, both organizations that continue to influence my values, my career, and my family.

Motivation for living and working in Vermont: I was motivated to live and work in Vermont by the people who offered me friendship, the landscape that offered me ample adventure, and the culture that has deeply rooted my values in community care.

Favorite part of your job: My favorite part of my job is getting to build relationships with folks who have a deep commitment to serving their communities. I love getting to envision something together, and co-create that everyday. We find joy and whimsy where many wouldn’t expect it to be.

Best career advice: The best career advice I have received comes from a favorite author and leader, who urges us to keep asking “why” until we hit a value or a belief.

Favorite Vermont season: My favorite Vermont season (if I can’t choose all of them) is summer! Of course I love my winter activities, but Vermont in the summer is so alive with activity – music, art, food, lake life, and, best of all, Vermont Green FC!