Email: childcare@siuslawvision.org
Title: Childcare Development Specialist
Organization: Siuslaw Vision / Onward Eugene
Community: Siuslaw Region (Florence, Dunes City, Glenada, Mapleton, Deadwood, Swisshome)
Population: 18,000
County Served: Lane County

Meet Abby Harrison (she/they):

Abby is a Pacific Northwest native from Seattle, Washington, who recently graduated from the University of Oregon with a degree in Planning, Public Policy, and Management, and a minor in Education. Her academic journey has fueled her passion for public health, community building, urban planning, and educational initiatives. Abby’s upbringing in the PNW has instilled in her a deep curiosity about the environment and a strong appreciation for the unique character of different communities, particularly in rural areas. She is eager to apply her skills and insights to foster thriving communities in Oregon, particularly along the coast, as she embarks on her professional journey.

Community and Organization:

Located minutes from spectacular beaches adjoining coastal forest land and sand dunes, the Siuslaw Region is made up of Glenada, Dunes City, and Florence, alongside the upriver communities of Mapleton, Deadwood, and Swisshome. The region also adjoins lands of the Confederated Tribes of the Coos, Lower Umpqua, and Siuslaw Indians. The beautiful Siuslaw River connects all of the communities. The area is brimming with recreational opportunities provided by its many lakes, rivers, beaches, dunes, and connecting trails. Florence is a popular tourist destination, with highly-rated restaurants, friendly coffee shops, and vibrant local shops. Siuslaw Vision and Onward Eugene in their joint efforts ensures all people in this region have opportunities to be connected, happy, active, educated, working, and creative while mobilizing rebuilding efforts to fully realize the region’s shared potential prosperity.

Projects:

Abby is focused on enhancing child care capacity in the region through collaboration with community partners, providers and stakeholders. She conducts in-depth research on child care programs and policies, exploring successful case studies and identifying gaps in marketing training programs. Her efforts aim to create a sustainable plan for ongoing community support beyond her placement.