The rock center for youth development

OUR Team

 

Tara Welch

Tara Welch

President and CEO

Tara@therockc4yd.org

I feel lucky to be in a place that encourages, supports, and welcomes youth to be accepted as they are and where they are. The ROCK is doing fantastic work for our youth’s mental wellbeing. To be a small part of their story is a tremendous opportunity for me to help make a difference in our future.

Sarah Weisbarth

Sarah Weisbarth

Discover You™ Director

Sarah@discoveryou.org

I love working for The ROCK because of our shared mission. The reward I receive is seeing youth valued as unique individuals, being included in their experiences and development, and learning from them. Plus, it is just plain fun to work here. We practice what we promote.  Learning and growing with my team and the teens fulfills me.

Jill Deitsch

Jill Deitsch

Out of School Time Director

Jill@therockc4yd.org

I personally have huge areas of interest, countless hobbies and am curious about so many things. Planning weekly activities, summer camps and events at The ROCK allows me to explore so many different subjects with the students in the hands on sort of way I like to learn. As a kid finding that place where you feel at home, are allowed to try, fail and succeed, make a mess and laugh while spending time with people who want to understand you and spend time with you is priceless. Learning while experiencing all that is perfect!

Katrina Grieve

Katrina Grieve

Administrative Assistant

Katrina@therockc4yd.org

 I love working at the ROCK because I’ve experienced firsthand the difference we make in the lives of our youth. Teens have a lot of people jostling for persuasion over them. To be able to step-in and be a positive influence is so amazing and humbling. We are truly an impactful organization.

Bryce Smedley

Bryce Smedley

Strategic Impact and Outreach Specialist

Bryce@therockc4yd.org

The work The ROCK does to support youth and community deeply aligns with my core values. Our staff is exceptionally talented and consistently goes above and beyond to support teens during one of the most important transitional phases of their lives. What makes this organization truly special is that The ROCK practices what it preaches. It leads with courage, compassion, and genuine support for both young people and staff. I am incredibly grateful to be part of an organization doing such meaningful, impactful work.

Amanda Valente-Confer

Amanda Valente-Confer

Development & Communication Specialist

Amanda@therockc4yd.org

I enjoy working for The ROCK because of the positive impact we have on youth in the region. Our programs give a sense of purpose and belonging for teens and ensure they have opportunities to explore and grow. Investing in The ROCK’s mission to build hope and resilience in youth creates a stronger community and a lasting legacy for years to come.

Katie Gengler

Katie Gengler

Site Supervisor

Katie@therockc4yd.org

 I’ve always had a wide range of interests; from playing in an adult volleyball league to diving into new hobbies. I’m a proud Harry Potter enthusiast (Team Gryffindor through and through!). I love bringing that curiosity and passion to the next generation, showing them that possibilities are endless and every day is an opportunity to grow, learn, and fall in love with something new. The young people I get to work with are a true force to be reckoned with, and I’m thrilled to be at the ROCK as a voice, mentor, and advocate for their journey. 

Carter Iuni

Carter Iuni

Site Supervisor

Jennifer Boehm

Jennifer Boehm

Jefferson Team Lead

JBoehm@therockc4yd.org

Working at The ROCK, I get to help support and empower teens as they grow in confidence toward their potential. Every day, I see the impact of building trusting relationships and creating a safe space where students can thrive and feel a true sense of belonging.

Samantha Clark

Samantha Clark

Meridian Team Lead

Samantha@therockc4yd.org

Working at The ROCK has been an incredibly rewarding experience– my son has been attending The ROCK for years, so I already knew firsthand what a special place it is. I’ve always had a passion for working with kids, and after a year on staff, I can honestly say I love everything about what I do here.

Patrick Kemmerling

Patrick Kemmerling

Northeast Team Lead

Hannah Kinsman

Hannah Kinsman

High School Site Team Lead

Hannah@therockc4yd.org

If everybody collectively gives a little more to the next generation than what they had growing up – a little more support, a little more patience, the chance to really hear what they’re saying, then the world will consistently be moving towards a better place for everyone in it. I wanted to be a part of that movement forward.