First Steps Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities “Because every 10,000 Mile Journey Begins with the First Step.”
Executive Director Brandi Lindstrom is the mom of two boys who experience autism, and another who experiences a communication disorder. The feelings of being completely overwhelmed mixed with feelings of loneliness and lack of support from others is what fueled her decision to volunteer for The Autism Society of Oregon for almost 10 years. During that time, she worked professionally in the Mental health Field while completing her bachelor’s degree in Human Services. While she enjoyed and appreciated the time and experience, she gained from working with ASO, she felt that there was more that she could do for her local community. With a bit of brainstorming, research and support from family and friends, she founded First Steps. Brandi is excited to step into the Executive Director role and help this organization shine by providing the support and resources to the families in Clatsop County who need it the most.
Board Co- President: Marc Gendelman is a proud father of two young children who experience autism and developmental disabilities, and he is deeply committed to supporting the neurodivergent community. A physical therapist and healthcare leader, He once served as a charter member of the NWRESD Parent Advisory Committee and is an alum of Fact Oregon's 2023 Activate Your Advocacy cohort. In addition, Marc held leadership roles as Chairperson for the Bond Oversight Committee and a member of the Budget Committee at Knappa School District. With professional experience as a caregiver, tutor, and counselor for neurodivergent children and adolescents, Marc continues to advocate for inclusive education and support systems.
Board Co- President Born and raised in Texas, Christopher “Chris” Redfearn worked for the County of El Paso for over a decade within their Juvenile Justice Program. He later moved to Houston, TX where he and his wife of 9 years, Melanie L. Rodriguez, Ph.D., started a Hemp-based business. In June 2021 they relocated to the PNW and now call Long Beach, WA their home. He is a father to a ten-year-old son and is one of three brothers. His family has served in nearly all branches of military service. Chris currently works in Astoria, OR for the Astoria – Warrenton Chamber of Commerce as their Membership Director & Manager of Partnerships and Connections. Chris is a server-leader, volunteering with organizations in the past like S.T.A.R.S. an advocacy group for survivors of sexual assault, the Salvation Army, Houston Children’s Charity. He held elected positions with A.F.&A.M. in Texas, and he currently sits as a board member for First Steps Center for Autism in Warrenton, OR and the Long Beach Merchants Association in Washington. When Chris is not serving the businesses and communities of the lower-Columbia River, you can sometimes find him enjoying his hobbies of fishing, hiking, birding, and taking in the freedoms and beauty of this state.. ,
Board Treasurer:
Dacei DeVos is a dedicated mother of three children, each with unique neurodivergent traits, and has recently been diagnosed with ADHD. Since 2011, she has served as the office manager and bookkeeper at her father’s automotive business, where she plans to take ownership within the next five years. Upon starting, she inherited a chaotic QuickBooks system and, with just two hours of guidance from a CPA, took it upon herself to learn the intricacies of the software.
Her commitment to community service is reflected in her recent term as Vice President of the Warrenton School District's Parents and Teachers Helping Students (PATHS) group and her six years of volunteer work with the Clatsop County Boy Scouts of America, where she currently serves as the district’s finance chair. Under her leadership, the district achieved record-breaking fundraising success.
Dacei is eager to join the First Steps Board, a cause close to her heart, as her family has actively participated in the organization’s activities. She is passionate about helping others access the services and support they need while navigating complex systems.
Char Moore is a Clatsop County native who lives in Warrenton with her husband and two children. With 17 years of experience in therapeutic foster care, several years working for the Department of Developmental Disabilities, and extensive fundraising experience, Char is passionate about helping people realize and reach their full potential. Guided by the motto "meet people where they are," she is committed to making a positive impact on the lives of those she supports.
Becky Shinn is a mom to three daughters, one of them being autistic with other developmental disabilities. She is a personal support worker, home care worker, and advocate. Her passion is helping others live their daily lives to their full potential and finding joy in everyday life. She comes to this organization out of a desire to help form community and inclusion among disabled adults in Clatsop County. Becky is thrilled to join First Steps, knowing this group is a much needed asset to our area.
Carmine Allee is an assistant retail manager for a busy health food store and also works part-time as a direct support professional for neurodivergent individuals. Her experiences in both roles, along with being a step-parent to a child on the autism spectrum, opened her eyes to the lack of support and services for families with children who have special needs. Motivated to make a difference, Carmine joined the Board of Directors and is dedicated to providing much-needed support to the Clatsop County special needs community.
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