Care Teams

Care Team Liaisons are designated staff members at all 36 Northshore schools and programs who nominate students in need for financial support. Established in 2018, this program was created with the belief that every student in Northshore is our student. By partnering with school staff, the Foundation strives to support students dealing with disrupted normal activities, helping to remove barriers, and ensure that every student gets the care they need. This program reflects our commitment to the success of every Northshore student.

Who are Care Team Liaisons?

Most Care Team Liaisons are school staff members who have direct contact with students, such as counselors, nurses, and other support personnel. By working closely with students, Care Team Liaisons can recognize challenges and barriers immediately and early. Their close relationship with students allows for a personalized approach, helping to address the specific needs of each Northshore student and ensuring they receive the customized support.

Read what inspired our Care Team Liaison to take on this meaningful role.

“I chose to serve as a Care Team Liaison at my school to better support students and families facing challenges.
I recognize that students often struggle academically when dealing with external issues or financial hardships at home, and by helping address some of these barriers and fostering a supportive community, we help ensure that every student is equipped and ready to engage in learning.”

DAWN L

“As counselors, we are always looking for ways to support our students furthest from educational justice.
The quick turnaround that the Northshore Schools Foundation provides has allowed us to quickly support kids so that they can participate fully in their school.

For example, we had a student who wanted to (be involved after-school. The student) “worked hard on getting (their) grades up….(and) NSF took care of a fine so that (they) could participate. It was a success! The family was so grateful! ”

taryn b

“I became the Care Team Liaison when the program began during COVID because I saw a real need to support our families during such a difficult time.
I’ve built strong relationships with them, and they know they can rely on me when help is needed. One of the most rewarding parts of this role is seeing a student’s face light up when they receive something as simple—but important—as a warm coat.”

DARLEENE M

“I’ve been a Care Team Liaison since 2020, and I absolutely love that the Foundation offers the Basic Needs Fund. Many families at our school have benefited from this incredible program…

…The Foundation staff makes it so easy for us liaisons to access the funds...

The reasons for need are incredibly varied…[and] the support truly meets people where they are.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who donates to this amazing service—you are truly making a difference!”

jamey a.

“I feel so blessed to have been the Care Team Liaison for the Northshore Schools Foundation for the past three years.

Oftentimes the families we support are going through stressors and trauma…We all are better together, and the network of resources we can provide our families has given them a fighting chance through their adversity.

The bonus of the Northshore Schools Foundation, through their basic needs/opportunity funds provided to each school has been a huge safety net for our families, when a need arises.

Hearing a sigh of relief in the voices of our families when a need is met makes this role extra special.

kristie M

“Northshore Schools Foundation is an integral part of the resources NSD offers our students and families. This organization provided several of our families with much-needed gift cards during the holiday season…

As a school counselor, I cannot do my job without Northshore Schools Foundation. They are a bridge to so many vital community resources, and we are incredibly appreciative of all they do to support our students and families.”

Katie C.

“I chose to work as a care team liaison because being able to provide assistance with basic needs to students is extremely important to me it helps me build relationships with students that are struggling the most.     
The Foundations’ support has been vital in this work.  As a care team liaison, we are not able to solve food insecurity, housing insecurity or other much bigger social issue but we are able to provide short term assistance and point them in the right direction this also allows us to connect with students and make sure we are doing everything we can to support them.”

SARAH B.

“I have been happy to be the CARE team liaison for the last 5 years. I really appreciate the help that the Northshore Schools Foundation provides. We have used our Opportunity Fund to help families…The Northshore Schools foundation also helps me to connect families with backpacks and holiday resources in the community.”

-Sherry W.

To find out who is a Care Team Liaison at a Northshore school or program, contact: info@northshoreschoolsfoundation.org

If you’re a Northshore educator or staff and are interested in becoming a Care Team Liaison, contact: info@nsdfoundation.org