Our Staff

Executive Director
Making a difference in the lives of children and families has always been a source of passion and purpose in my life! After earning my master’s degree, I spent over 20 years implementing programs to address the developmental and behavioral needs of young children, with additional focus on the child welfare system.
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In 2019, I relocated to Humboldt County and was honored to join CASA of Humboldt in 2021.
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At CASA of Humboldt, we have a unique opportunity to be a part of our community. When we offer children and their families a sense of hope combined with tangible assistance, the course of their lives can be changed. They can envision a new future-- no longer defined by mistakes of the past, but one that is filled with potential.
I am grateful to share my life with my husband, daughter, and our two dogs. In my spare time, I enjoy cooking, hiking, and kayaking.

Operations Coordinator
With a background in sociology and social development, I am personally invested in equity, systems work and better outcomes for individuals and communities. Working on behalf of children fuels me with purpose and hope that the work I do alongside my amazing team will have a positive impact on families throughout generations.
My purpose here at CASA of Humboldt is to empower my colleagues and our volunteers with the tools, data and workflows which are necessary in providing more families with CASA advocates. I am passionate about data-driven and purpose-driven work in service of our community’s most vulnerable and resilient!

Development Director
With a degree in Social Work, and as a former foster, now adoptive parent my passion for families involved in the child welfare system runs deep. My career began in children’s mental health and program development for children and families affected by incarceration. Eventually, my focus shifted to the marketing, philanthropy, and community relations side of non-profits.
Outside of the office I stay involved with the community by sitting on the board for Food for People, and soaking up the sun wherever that may lead. 2020 was a year full of the unexpected including the arrival of twins! Through adoption, marriage and birth our family is now complete with seven amazing human beings that I have the privilege of mothering.
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I am honored to be the link between our marvelous donors and the unbelievably wonderful work our CASA volunteers do. Together we are truly creating change.

Case Supervisor
I have a degree in Child Development from the now Cal Poly Humboldt. Before joining CASA of Humboldt, I worked in a local public school district as a child development specialist, working with ages 2 to 5 years old.
I joined CASA in early 2022 to combine my passion for advocacy and love of children and families.
Outside of work you can find me enjoying board games with my partner, going on walks with my dog or enjoying a warm day by the river.

Case Supervisor
Working with children and families in our community is something I have loved doing since I relocated to Humboldt County in 2016. I have a Degree in Child Development from Humboldt State (now Cal Poly Humboldt) and a background working in childcare which has led me to understand the importance for advocacy for children and families. I excitedly joined CASA in early 2023 and am grateful to have the opportunity to serve our community in a different capacity. Working for CASA allows me to incorporate my experience working within the community into the advocacy work that we do. I feel lucky to live in Humboldt County where, in my free time, I can go hiking, biking, kayaking, and explore the nature that this place has to offer.

Development and Outreach Associate
Marcella Ogata-Day
marcella@humboldtcasa.org
(707) 443-3197 ext 209
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With degrees emphasizing Graphic Design and Visual Communication, I’ve worked in production for locally printed publications, in outreach for non-profit organizations, and as an independent graphic designer. I have found that design and visual communication can apply to most areas in life. They help me navigate the world around I live in.
To work at CASA of Humboldt and help with their outreach and development brings a rewarding feeling. That I could help contribute to an organization that plays an important role in supporting children and families just emphasizes to me how everyone’s individual part makes a difference towards a larger goal.
Humboldt County is a special area with beautiful open spaces which I enjoy with my husband and our dog and cat. I love spending time practicing yoga, walking, and kayaking.