Staff
NW Children’s Foundation has become a leading voice in child well-being – aligning resources, organizations and passionate individuals committed to ensuring all children thrive.
Victoria began her tenure as director of NW Children’s Foundation in 2003. In the succeeding 20 years, she has led the organization to significantly expand from a grantmaking focus to its current role as grantor, educator, and convener. Her previous positions include marketing officer at an international bank in New York and Tokyo, director of development for a K-8 school for dyslexic learners, and directing an international center at the University of Washington Business School. She pairs her extensive background in program development, management, and fundraising with a deep commitment to the well-being of children and young people. Victoria loves walking in Seward Park, one-on-one conversations, and learning how to do new things.
VICTORIA PEATTIE HELM
Chief Executive Officer
Elise joined NW Children's Foundation in 2023 after working as a fundraising consultant for education-focused nonprofits in Washington, DC. Before consulting, she was part of the development and program teams at Reading Partners Seattle, the IRC, and YWCA Walla Walla. Originally from Seattle, Elise is passionate about trust-based philanthropy and honored to support organizations dedicated to children’s well-being through her role as development director. Outside of work Elise loves to rock climb, cook, hike, and learn languages.
ELISE COLDWELL
Development Director
Jenny joined NW Children’s Foundation in 2021 with more than 25 years of experience in nonprofit communications and fundraising. Prior to NWCF, she was the Executive Director at Jumping Mouse Children’s Center, a nonprofit dedicated to providing mental health care to children in rural Jefferson County, Washington. She cares deeply about health equity and accessibility and loves to use effective communication to inspire, engage, and connect with different audiences. A mom of two young adults, she lives in Port Townsend, Washington and likes to knit, read, and spend time outdoors.
JENNY MANZA
Communications Director
Rita joined the NW Children’s Foundation in 2022. Previously, she taught preschool for 10 years, nannied, and tutored young children before taking a temporary position as Administrative Coordinator with Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center. In her current role at NWCF, she combines her dream of working for a nonprofit with her passion for helping children. Rita graduated from University of Washington with a B.A. in English. Outside of work, Rita’s favorite things are her dog, writing, hobby-jumping, camping, gardening, and kiddos (especially her young niece and nephew).
RITA MCARDLE
Development & Operations Associate
Lori’s position is internally focused. She oversees NW Children’s Foundation’s financial operations, and provides leadership, guidance, and support to staff and board members to empower them to perform their roles well. She has a background in education, law, writing, and small business. Before joining the NWCF staff in 2013, she had also served in numerous capacities on a multitude of nonprofit boards in Seattle and abroad, including 11 years on the NWCF Board. Lori enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling, reading, and attending a variety of performance arts events.