MEET OUR BOARD
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Donovan Cathey, President
In his early years, Donovan Cathey learned the value of community involvement firsthand. Growing up in Medical Lake, his family was deeply engaged in local initiatives like Dollars for Scholars and Friends for Children. They could often be found fundraising at the grocery store, serving hot dogs at community events, or awarding scholarships to deserving high school students. These experiences instilled in Donovan a passion for giving back and fueled his desire to do more whenever the chance arose.
After successfully establishing and cultivating the Coats for Kids program within the Tumwater Firefighters Union, Donovan applied his forward-thinking approach to co-found this nonprofit organization alongside a dedicated group of firefighters. This pivotal transition not only expanded the organization's outreach efforts but also empowered it to more effectively address the evolving needs of our community. Donovan is eagerly anticipating the Foundation's future trajectory, envisioning growth in our Coats for Kids initiative, enhancements to the school pantry program, and the introduction of exciting new initiatives on the horizon. In his professional life, Donovan proudly serves as Battalion Chief with the Tumwater Fire Department. During his downtime, he cherishes moments with his family, whether cheering on his kids at baseball games and cheerleading events or immersing himself in the beauty of the outdoors through rounds of golf or camping adventures across the scenic state.
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Keilani Pragnell, Vice President
Keilani Pragnell is a woman of many roles: a devoted fire wife, a steadfast community volunteer, and a passionate advocate for fostering nurturing environments for the next generation. Her journey into community service commenced in 2012 at Camp Eyabsut, a transformative experience she first encountered as a camper during her childhood. Spending every summer there from the age of 7 to 17, Keilani's profound connection to the camp inspired her to give back. Motivated by this pivotal moment, she dedicated numerous summers as a camp counselor, fueled by a deep-seated commitment to sharing the same joys and growth she had experienced with other children. It was during these formative summers that she crossed paths with her husband, Ryan, further solidifying her ties to community and service.
Keilani plays an integral role within our Foundation, channeling her unwavering passion into addressing essential needs within our local schools and spearheading the impactful Coats for Kids event. For Keilani and Ryan, giving back to the community where their two children are growing up is not merely a value—it's a mission they wholeheartedly embrace. Firm believers in creating a nurturing environment for the next generation, they are dedicated to making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Keilani eagerly anticipates the opportunity to expand her impact and contribute even more profoundly to the betterment of our community.
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MICHAEL HARBOUR, TREASURER
Michael Harbour brings over a decade of experience as an Actuary for the State of Washington, a career he embarked on after graduating from WSU in 2007. As a proud Olympia native, he is passionate about giving back to his community, particularly by supporting local schools and those in need. Drawing from his professional expertise and diverse volunteer experiences, Michael is committed to making a positive impact through his involvement with nonprofit organizations. In his role as Treasurer, he upholds principles of fiscal prudence, transparency, and integrity, ensuring that resources are managed responsibly to serve the community effectively.
Outside of his professional and philanthropic endeavors, Michael finds joy in spending quality time with his wife, Erin, and their two daughters. They delight in sharing good food with friends and traveling together. In his spare time, Michael can often be tending to his yard or mentoring undergraduates in math. And while he may claim to have lost some of his golfing prowess over the years, he still enjoys the occasional round, relishing in the camaraderie and challenge of the game.
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ASHLEY PALMER, SECRETARY
Ashley Palmer brings decades of public service experience to the board, coupled with a lifelong commitment to community engagement. From assisting her mother in securing holiday gifts for families in need to volunteering at the local food bank, Ashley's dedication to service traces back to her childhood. Her professional journey as the Director of Washington Service Corps, an AmeriCorps program focused on community impact statewide, further solidifies her passion for making a difference. As an Olympia native, Ashley is honored to be part of an organization whose mission closely resonates with her values, and she is steadfast in her commitment to bridging the gap for families and children in need within our community.
Ashley has played a pivotal role in co-leading the Foundation's fundraising efforts alongside Brandi, resulting in substantial funds raised to continue providing coats for kids and expanding programming such as the Pantry Program and fulfilling individual requests for children. In her personal life, Ashley finds her greatest joy in spending time with her children and partner, Donovan, whether they're exploring new destinations or simply enjoying a quiet evening in their backyard. When she's not engaged in her professional duties or serving on the board, Ashley can be found relishing the company of her friends and family or immersing herself in the pages of a good book.
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Shawn Crimmins, DIRECTOR 1
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RYAN PRAGNELL, DIRECTOR 2
Ryan Pragnell's journey with the foundation traces back to his formative years as a camper at the Washington state summer camp for young burn survivors. It was there that he encountered counselors who were not only Firefighters but also adult burn survivors—individuals whose resilience and dedication inspired him to follow in their footsteps and give back to the community. After serving in the US Army for four years following high school, Ryan pursued his dream of becoming a firefighter. He now proudly serves as a firefighter for the Tumwater Fire Department, where his passion for helping others continues to burn brightly.
In addition to his firefighting duties, Ryan is deeply committed to volunteering with organizations close to his heart, including the Washington State Council of Firefighters Burn Foundation. Alongside his wife, Keilani, and their two children, Ryan finds joy in nurturing a sense of community and compassion. When he's not busy serving his community, Ryan can be found indulging in his love for camping, exploring new places, and riding anything on two wheels.
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Ryen Castro, DIRECTOR 3
Ryen Castro, originally from the island of Guam, has called Washington state home since childhood. A local chiropractor in Tumwater, Ryen first connected with the Firefighters Community Foundation through her work with firefighters in the community. She attended the 2023 Firefighter Auction, which raised funds for the Coats for Kids program, and later joined the foundation in distributing coats to children at a local elementary school. Witnessing the joy and impact this event brought to the children inspired Ryen to become more involved, ultimately leading her to join the foundation’s board.
In her short time on the board, Ryen was instrumental in the foundation's newest holiday family support program, which provides essential items and gifts to families in need during the holiday season.
Ryen is passionate about giving back to her community and brings that enthusiasm to her role on the board. When she’s not working, you can find her golfing, fishing, or spending time with her family and her puppy.