Peer Support Provider​

Clackamas County         

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Kaitlyn Nelson is a driven, goal ­oriented, independent young woman. At the impressive age of 17, she supports herself completely. Kaitlyn comes from a home where drug use is a common occurrence, and her family has never kept a clean, healthy environment for her. Her family’s drug use led to her temptation and eventual drug use at a very young age. When she was eight, Kaitlyn was diagnosed with depression, and attempted suicide many times before the age of 15. Recently, she was diagnosed with an anxiety disorder, which has led to intrapersonal issues. While these problems have proved to be tough obstacles, Kaitlyn has overcome them through her personal emotional strength, sobriety, and the amazing support she receives from her coworkers at Youth M.O.V.E. Oregon.

Kaitlyn became involved with Youth M.O.V.E. through her desire to volunteer; and was hired shortly afterwards. She is making differences in the lives of her peers through her role as a Peer Support Specialist, where she lends a listening ear and an encouraging voice to individuals struggling with various youth issues. Her personal experience with mental challenges and living in poverty gives her the ability to fully relate to the youth she works alongside with. She is very excited to be part of this incredible organization and to bring her incomparable skills to this great cause. Kaitlyn believes her life experiences and her personal success provide an opportunity to teach struggling youth that there is hope, and she is living proof. Youth M.O.V.E. is extremely lucky to have such a determined, spirited individual like Kaitlyn on our team.

When she is not spending her time working with Youth M.O.V.E. or focusing on school, Kaitlyn enjoys immersing herself in art projects and poetry. In addition to her responsibilities outside her home, she also takes care of some furry friends; a pet mouse and a pet ferret. Kaitlyn will be a senior in high school in just a few short months. Kaitlyn also identifies as a Panromantic­-Asexual in the LGBTQQ community.

Kaitlyn Nelson

Contact: Kaitlyn@youthmoveoregon.com