August 2026
Cascadia welcomes Board Member Areli Ortega Garcia
New member comes with understanding and personal experience
Areli Ortega Garcia—a new member of Cascadia Health’s Board of Directors—brings understanding and deeply rooted personal experience to the role.
Areli’s own story has shaped her passion for mental health and wellness services.
She currently works as a peer support specialist at New Narrative, and she also participates in Cascadia’s services as a consumer. This dual experience gives her valuable insight as she steps into her Board position.
“I’m excited about the opportunity to bring a peer perspective and a different worldview to the conversations happening at the board level,” she said.
Areli is originally from Mexico and grew up in Southern California. She came to Oregon in 2017 and quickly fell in love with it. “I can’t see myself anywhere else,” she said.
When she was seeking health services, what drew her to Cascadia was its commitment to care without judgement.
“Cascadia doesn’t see you as a diagnosis. They see you as a person and they treat you with dignity,” she said.
Areli is especially passionate about preventative services that can stop the cycle of hardship before it spirals out.
“I feel that Cascadia isn’t just about treating a crisis. It’s about helping people build stability, connection, and a life that feels meaningful to them,” she said.
She wants to raise awareness that Cascadia is here to help, no matter what.
“I wish more people knew how broad Cascadia’s services are and that the support can look totally different depending on what someone needs.”
As someone who has experienced houselessness in the past, Areli also brings firsthand understanding about the importance of housing services. After struggling with housing insecurity for years, she was approved this summer for long-term housing. This milestone has brought not only a sense of relief but a chance to express herself more freely than before.
“I’m making my home feel like a reflection of my personality,” she said. “It’s just my little piece of heaven.”
As a new “plant mom,” she’s been nurturing all the leafy greenery that frames her home.
Outside of work and volunteering, Areli finds expression in creative art. Lately, for her, that’s meant geometric patterning and canvas work. She likes hosting friends for chats over sips and paints.
As Areli looks ahead to her service on the Board, she’s excited not only to lead but to build connections.
“I’m especially looking forward to learning from other board members, staff, and the people Cascadia serves,” she said.