Kids in Focus is a community of passionate volunteers and generous supporters, who are dedicated to opening the eyes of at-risk youth to their own potential. We are committed to inspiring youth to see beyond their circumstances and create happy productive lives.
Our Board
Karen Shell
Founder & Executive Director
About Karen
The brainchild and driving force behind KIF, Karen has been an extremely active volunteer for kids and families in need for over 27 years. Her three-decade career as a commercial photographer has earned her industry awards, and her personal work has been exhibited internationally.
Tom Waite
Business Director & Treasurer
About Tom
Responsible for many aspects related to KIF’s business operations, with a focus on growth and stability of the organization. Founder and Chairman of Satellite Management Services, a leading provider of services to the private broadband industry for over 35 years.
Dave Mason
Board Member
About Dave
Manages the production of KIF exhibits. A major supporter of various projects for kids and families in need. President and CEO of McKenna Professional Imaging, a leading photo lab known for its product innovation and exceptional customer service for over 40 years.
Bernard Banahan
Board Member
About Bernard
Consultant to KIF in matters of business law and accounting. As founder of Banahan Law, Bernie has served Arizona’s small business community for over 30 years.
Bobby Barnes
Board Member
About Bobby
President of Bobby Barnes & Associates and Executive Vice President of Starlight Mortgage. Has over 25 years of experience in the mortgage industry, specializing in both private money and conventional lending. A native Arizonan with vast experience in the “fundraising” world of philanthropy whose primary involvement with KIF is broadening the development outreach.
Mike Oleskow
Board Member
About Mike
Longtime advocate and champion of Downtown Phoenix and the Arts, Mike brings his passion and enthusiasm to KIF. The creative force behind the unique art boutique hotel, Found:re Phoenix, Mike’s influential roles in the City of Phoenix Arts and Culture Commission, Artlink and other community organizations continue to unite and promote the Phoenix art scene.
Our Directors
Christie Davis
Development Director
About Christie
Leads KIF in building relationships with individual and corporate donors, developing fundraising marketing plans, writing and managing grant proposals, and coordinating special events. She has extensive background in fundraising and development, and a degree in advertising. She has held positions with local and national nonprofit organizations for over 25 years.
Anndee Rickey
Program & Evaluation Director
About Anndee
Creates dynamic and impactful KIF programs by building and measuring the social and emotional well-being of the kids we serve. She has doctoral training in Psychology and Creativity throughout development and 20 years of experience evaluating the impact of cultural and arts engagement on individuals and communities. She is also the Vice President for the Friends of the Tempe Center for the Arts Board and an educator at Phoenix College.
Kim Seeley
Strategic Alliance Specialist
About Kim
Assists the entire KIF team with organizational and strategic initiatives and also manages and coordinates volunteers. Has years of entrepreneurial experience helping large and small start-up companies grow and develop long-term value. She has a combined a degree in Business and Communication with experience in education and passion for children.
Serena Castillo
Communications Director
About Serena
Responsible for managing and directing KIF internal and external communications. Has over two decades of experience in visual communication, such as graphic and digital design, web design, photography, copywriting, art direction, and project management.
Our Mentors
Terry
Brennan
Mark
Hoffman
A New Lens on Life
When kids experience trauma, they disconnect from the world and from themselves. Kids in Focus is a 501c3 nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering and equipping at-risk kids to shift from surviving to thriving. Through the restorative power of photography and with the guidance of dedicated mentors, these kids are inspired to open their eyes to their potential and self-worth.
Mailing: 3104 E. Camelback Rd.
Box 831
Phoenix, AZ 85016
Office: 4455 E. Camelback Rd.
Building A, Suite 215
Phoenix, AZ 85018
info@kidsinfocus.org
602.753.6339
Shop for some shirts!
Tax Credit