For 15 years, Carla Feltz has helped Vancouver families navigate life’s challenges, connecting them with the resources and support they need to help students thrive.

As the Family Engagement and Technical Assistance Coordinator for Vancouver Public Schools, Carla supports the district’s Family-Community Resource Coordinator (FCRC) team while working closely with community partners to ensure students and families have access to a wide range of services and support.

Before joining VPS, Carla worked as a hospital social worker in emergency medicine, palliative care, and medical-surgical settings before serving as a social work director in long-term care facilities. While each role offered opportunities to make a difference, she found her calling supporting students and families in schools.

“I loved the opportunity to work with students and families, helping them remove non-academic barriers so students could be successful in school,” Carla said.

Today, she helps lead a team of FCRC professionals who provide critical support to families facing challenges ranging from food insecurity to housing instability.

More Than a Food Bag

Carla says many people don’t realize the breadth of services provided by Family-Community Resource Coordinators.

“It is often thought that the only thing FCRCs do is give out food bags,” she said. “However, they support families who are navigating houselessness, domestic violence, medical emergencies, job loss, and so much more.”

FCRC staff stay current on ever-changing community resources and social service programs, helping families access the support they need while serving as skilled problem-solvers and advocates.

Meeting Growing Needs

Over the years, Carla has seen family needs become increasingly complex.

With housing costs continuing to rise in Clark County, finding affordable housing has become an ongoing challenge for many families.

“In order to afford a 1 bedroom apartment in Clark County, an individual must make $32.25 an hour and work full time,” Carla said.

At the same time, schools are seeing more students struggling with mental health concerns that can affect attendance, engagement, and academic performance.

“The FCRC is a safe, caring adult students can go to for connection to support, whether that’s resources available through the school district or services offered by community partners,” Carla said.

A Team Making a Difference

When asked what she is most proud of the FCRCs accomplishing, Carla points not to a specific initiative, but to the countless ways staff have come together to meet the evolving needs of students and families.

“I am incredibly proud and honored to work with our team of FCRCs, who daily walk with students and families through challenging circumstances,” she said. “They do so with grace and compassion, always meeting the student and family where they are at. They know how to pivot with a moment’s notice when there is an urgent need, responding immediately with dignity and respect.”

Fun Facts About Carla

Hidden Talent: I’m really, really good at pinball.

Favorite Weekend Activity: Spending time with my husband and our adult children when they’re home, going for walks, gardening, or vacationing.

A Hobby I’d Love More Time For: Reading.

Best Advice I’ve Ever Received: “Always make sure your loved ones know you care, as we are not promised tomorrow.”