Along with leading the only agency in Maine focused on serving runaway and homeless youth, New Beginnings, Chris is also a founding member and the current chair of the Maine Homeless Youth Provider Group at the State level. He came to New Beginnings in 2016 from The Opportunity Alliance in Portland, where he served as the Director of Access and Intake. Chris has more than 25 years of experience in the field of human services, including as a consultant, trainer, and presenter working with high-risk youth, restorative justice, youth employment, harm reduction, and trauma-informed care. Chris coordinated Preble Street Teen Services in Portland for more than nine years and was instrumental in the design and opening of their Joe Kreisler Teen Shelter in 2012. A passionate advocate for youth and creativity, Chris has a Master’s Degree in Art Therapy from Lesley University and has served as a volunteer and board member with the Telling Room in Portland since 2012.