Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion
Multi-Service Center is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. These are values that we embrace and are vital components in fulfilling our mission to uplift communities by increasing equitable access to advocacy, opportunities, and well-being. We are committed to serving all members of the community who are in need and eligible for our services, regardless of religious affiliation, nationality, gender, age, ability, race, ethnicity or sexual orientation. In an effort to achieve our vision of “empowered individuals, thriving communities,” we work to foster a spirit of inclusion and acceptance. We find strength in diversity and welcome people from all walks of life.
MSC supports an active employee DEI committee. The DEI committee is dedicated to embracing diversity, practicing inclusion, and ensuring equity for all staff and volunteers through a variety of strategic initiatives that include improving hiring practices, professional development, service delivery, and policy. The committee fosters a spirit of inclusion and acceptance to help MSC better serve the community.
DEI Committee
Phoebe joined MSC in 2024 and is proud to lead the Economic Opportunities Department. Phoebe earned her Master of Social Work with a concentration in administration and policy and has used her career to focus on addressing systemic oppressions at the intersections of housing, reproductive, and economic justice with a deep focus on racial equity. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, hosting dinner parties with friends, and practicing patience as she learns to watercolor.
Annie began her career with MSC in July 2023. She joined the DEI committee as she believes that inclusive diversity is fundamental in fostering a positive and rewarding work environment. In her free time, Annie enjoys quiet time at home with her wife and three cats, as well as painting, gaming, and reading. She also loves to travel and hopes to visit Antarctica one day.
With over 28 years of experience in the field of aging, Patricia Hunter has served as the Washington State Long-Term Care Ombuds since 2011. The mission of the Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is to ensure the rights, dignity and well-being of individuals who live in long-term care settings. Ms. Hunter leads the work of staff and volunteer ombudsmen across the state who investigate and help to resolve complaints filed by, or on behalf of, long-term care residents. As the State Ombuds, Ms. Hunter works on systemic issues with consumers, state agencies, and legislators to improve the quality of care and life for individuals living in long-term care settings. Prior to joining MSC, Patricia worked for the Alzheimer’s Association, Western and Central WA State Chapter for nearly 16 years, serving as Director of Programs and Policy, and briefly as the interim executive director. Currently she serves on the board of directors of the National Association of State LTC Ombudsman Programs and is an appointed member of both the State Aging and Disability Joint Legislative and Executive Committee and the Washington State Dementia Action Coalition. Ms. Hunter is a graduate of Central Washington State University’s School of Business Administration, and holds a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Washington. She is also a graduate of Leadership Tomorrow, Class of 2008.
Viviana joined MSC in October 2022 as an HR Generalist. She believes in the DEI committee because diversity brings innovation, creativity, problem-solving, and a global perspective that makes an enormous difference when making decisions. Working for more than ten years in human resources and having a bachelor’s degree in psychology and HR Management Specialization allowed her to learn more about different cultures and backgrounds and realize there is always a better way to do things if you have an open mind. She firmly believes that diversity creates more empowered teams. She enjoys her free time with her boyfriend, Rob, and her cat, Bigotes, which means whiskers. Her favorite things to do are visiting her family in Colombia, attending concerts, reading, and the Sounders.
Cobie Sparks-Howard (he/him) joined the Multi-Service Center in September 2023. His experience includes facilitating courses on microaggressions and courageous conversations, equipping others with tools to engage in meaningful dialogue around diversity, equity, and inclusion. Currently pursuing a Master’s in Mental Health Counseling, Cobie brings a thoughtful, empathetic approach to his work, always seeking to support individuals and communities. Outside of his professional life, Cobie enjoys spending time with his two children, a son and a daughter. He’s also passionate about cooking and can often be found experimenting with new recipes. When he’s not in the kitchen, he’s gaming!
Vannah Tran joined the MSC team in November 2015. Vannah believes having a DEI committee helps to ensure the diversity and reality of our communities are reflected in every aspect of our missions, as well as promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace. When Vannah has free time, she likes to listen to music and attend Zumba classes.
Pamela started MSC in 2018 as the Regional Ombudsman for King County. Shortly after coming to MSC, Pamela joined the DEI committee. She wanted to become part of a group where conversations around racial inequity, social inequality, LGBTQ+, and gender discrimination can be impactful in making a difference within the MSC organization and the communities we serve. Pamela’s 40+ years as a social service and human service professional includes working with various Managed Care Organizations to assist vulnerable adults with navigating around Medicare and Medicaid, she worked as a Long-Term Care consultant for many years. Pamela also served as a director for Home and Community-Based Services programs to assist older adults age in place. Pamela holds a Master’s degree in Human Service Administration and Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and an Associate degree in Therapeutic Recreation. Pamela has two adult children: one son and one daughter who are her joy and ROCK! In her free time, Pamela enjoys attending concerts, watching sports on TV, traveling the world, and visiting her mom and family in Chicago.