Our Founders
With a passion for elevating their community, Maddie and Kimmi are using their 2 decades of work experience to bring their skills in programming, youth work, and business development to young people in the Twin Cities!
​
Maddie is a proud native of North Minneapolis with experience in youth work, program development, and community engagement. She spent a large part of her career working with young adults experiencing the foster care system and maintaining a platform for their voices to not only be heard but also implemented in systemic change.
​
As a parent herself, Maddie gained a perspective on what it really means to have a community surrounding you while raising a child. Using her passion for youth work and identifying the gaps that many young parents and families face, she is eager to see The Upton Program thrive and provide a space for young parents and their families to be seen, heard, and empowered.
​
Kimmi was born and raised on the north side of Minneapolis and attributes
her community and upbringing to the core of the person she is today. Throughout her education, Kimmi learned the importance of discipline and
a strong work ethic, which have led her to successfully lead multiple Minneapolis-based businesses before taking the leap into entrepreneurship and starting her own business.
​
Kimmi has seen how access to financial education, career skills, and ample resources and connections can dramatically impact the life of a young person. She is passionate about providing that access through The Upton Program and creating systems that better support our community.
Board of Directors
Izzy makes an impact at the intersection of strategy, innovation, and community development by driving data-driven decision-making, operational efficiency, and strategic growth in both corporate and nonprofit sectors. Beyond his corporate role, he focuses on mentorship, leadership, and fostering equitable opportunities, especially for underrepresented communities. As a first-generation Mexican-American professional, Izzy is passionate about helping others navigate their career paths and breaking down barriers to success.
Kierra is a writer and analyst at the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. Her professional career includes a history in finance, communication, and customer service. Kierra describes herself as a passionate storyteller, who is constantly evolving. Above all, she is a mother to three creative, adventurous, and compassionate human beings.
Maray currently serves as an Account Specialist at Genesys Works, a nonprofit organization that connects high school students from underserved communities with meaningful work opportunities. Maray's career focus is centered around empowering young people to succeed in professional spaces they may not have otherwise accessed—and making sure they feel confident, prepared, and seen. Maray is originally from North MPLS—a place that taught her the importance of community, hard work, and showing up for others. Maray explains "My roots keep me grounded and remind me why I do this work. Wherever I go, I carry that sense of responsibility and connection with me."
