Meet the Board
The CFI Board is made up of volunteers from the community and consists of at least 51% of people who experience disability in accordance to rules set by our main funding source. Some board members are professionals; others represent our consumers and youth. We strive to have diversity in as many areas as possible.
If you have questions or need assistance applying, please contact the Executive Director Leah Velasco at (253) 582-1253 ext. 101.
Kim Okimura (she/her)
Board President
Kim is a PNW native. She grew up in Tacoma and moved to Seattle to attend the University of Washington. At the UW, she studied French and Biology. In her professional career, she has a heavy background in technology & consulting. In her spare time, she had spent a few years creating and operating a non-profit as a director of recruitment. She hopes to share her experiences and dedicate time and knowledge to CFI in her new endeavor. She hopes that by joining the board, her mission to advocate for the disabled community will be enhanced with CFI’s network.
Kimberly Rinehardt (she/her)
Board Vice President
Kimberly is an Executive Director for a non-profit in Mason county and has worked in many other non-profits for over 25 years. She has served on various boards and committees and has a background in providing Independent Living services. Kimberly also is a member of the Altrusa International of Olympia, National Rehabilitation Association and Vice President of the Tacoma Women of Color Collective.
Christopher Hays (he/him)
Treasurer
Christopher is a community builder and advocate with a focus in disability rights, justice and equity. He grew up on the Eastside with Cerebral Palsy. He graduated from the University of Washington with a Bachelors in Law, Economic and Public Policy. Christopher runs a short-term rental management business. He also serves on the Outdoors for All Foundation board and the King County Citizens Elections Oversight Committee. Christopher hopes to bring his experience with living with a disability and prior board service to help advance the mission of CFI.
Luke Byram (he/him) Secretary
Luke is a former youth participant of CFI who became involved at CFI in 2013 and served on the board from 2015 until 2020 and is excited to rejoin the board. Luke will earn a bachelor’s degree in Law and Policy from UW in 2023. He serves as Vice-Chair of the Tacoma Area Commission on Disabilities and has been a member since 2014 and has served in several advisory capacities over the years including as Co-Chair of the Youth as Self Advocates of Family Voices. He was also involved in several committees of the Washington State Independent Living Council. Luke is dedicated to the independent living philosophy and dedicates his time to nonprofits he finds meaningful.
Krystal Monteros (she/her)
Krystal is a community advocate for people with disabilities. She works for Disability Rights Washington and is a big advocate for accessible transportation. She serves as the Chair for Tacoma’s Commission on Disabilities and has been part of the Commission for 6 years. Krystal was also chosen as Ms. Wheelchair Washington in 2010.
Keshreeyaji Oswal (he/him)
Keshreeyaji is an advocate for universal healthcare and Founder & CEO of Glocal Solutions. His work is dedicated to breaking down barriers and improving access to healthcare for under-resourced communities. He volunteers and serves as a commissioner on the City of Tacoma Human Rights Commission, where he leads the commission's policy and advocacy committee. He also serves as a volunteer member of Disability Rights Washington’s Cross Disability Advocacy Network. He frequently leads and facilitates community conversations on the state and local level. Keshreeyaji believes independent living is a human right, and is proud to support and advance CFI's mission as a board member.
Bob Tincher (he/him)
Bob is a participant of CFI’s Out and About support group. He has supported CFI in several ways and is passionate about CFI’s mission. He sustained a Traumatic Brain Injury in 1978. Bob is an avid reader and has a wide range of interests and beliefs. He has first-hand knowledge and respect for the work CFI does.