4/4/22 - New Crisis Now Coordinator Hired!
The City of Fairbanks is happy to welcome Brenda McFarlane as the new Crisis Now Coordinator!
Brenda has served the community of Fairbanks for the past 12 years in local non-profit organizations, specializing in designing programs that highlight and utilize the strength, resilience and work of the individuals being served. Ms. McFarlane managed the first Rapid Rehousing program in Fairbanks in coordination with the Fairbanks Housing & Homeless Coalition and in partnership with many local agencies. In the course of two years, this Alaska Mental Health Trust funded program led the way for the establishment of the Fairbanks Coordinated Entry System, a priority list for homeless individuals and families seeking housing and services, and housed over 100 individuals with more than 75% living with mental health needs.
Brenda is driven to improve services for those in the margins facing equity issues in accessing housing, employment, and social services, particularly vulnerable homeless individuals in need of medical & mental health care and protective services. She had the following to say regarding her new position, “The Crisis Now program has already begun and will continue to bridge a gap in services for those struggling most in our community, and it is an honor to be part of its continued development.”
Brenda is taking the position over from Mike Sanders, who was the Crisis Now Coordinator from June of 2021 until becoming the City’s Chief of Staff in February of this year.
