Carrie Jo Stairs

What I do at Resolutions Northwest: I spent several years working in the neighborhood mediation program and now am on temporary loan to the restorative justice program. My primary focus is on victim offender meetings in the Juvenile Services Division, but I also facilitate family meetings for inmates at Coffee Creek Correctional Facility.

Favorite spot in Portland to relax: Honestly, my favorite spot is at home and if I go out to relax it's usually to another person's home or, in the summer, to a park.

What famous person (living or dead) do you most identify with and why: I'd have to say Frida Kahlo; she started off being broken, but didn't let her circumstances keep her from living a full, colorful life. She found a way for her passion and zest to carry her through the world so she could create beauty, effect change, love deeply, and remain true to herself and ideals. I am grateful to her for leaving such a beautiful road map for later generations to follow.

Live in: NE Portland

Grew up in Michigan with three siblings

Fall, winter, spring or summer and why? Fall for the air, color, light and sounds.

Jitterbug, disco, salsa or funky chicken and why The clothes and sounds of jitterbug, the light-heartedness and community of disco, and the freedom and silliness of the funky chicken.