Hello

My Story

Hello, my name is Kara. I use she/her/they/them pronouns. I was raised in San Francisco in the ’80s and feel deeply rooted in the culture and spirit of its communities. Over time, I have witnessed gentrification and the increasing criminalization of those affected by poverty, which has left many of the beloved communities I remember from my childhood shattered and divided.

I started Kara's Care Connections because I saw a need for empowerment, connection, and growth within the community. I see people with life experience as assets—ancestors, wise, and valuable. Personally, I have experienced intimate partner violence, sexual trauma, homelessness, substance abuse, and mental health struggles. I also have close family members and loved ones who have faced similar challenges and experiences, many of whom struggled to navigate and thrive within the systems of support as they existed.

I have a BS in Criminal Justice and worked as a corrections officer for over five years. It’s a part of my life experience that people often find surprising, but I found it to be a humanizing experience. I am a deeply spiritual person, and I believe everything happens for a reason.

A few years ago, when I was working as a doula, I found myself inspired to do more—to connect people to others in need through the power of storytelling, compassion, and genuine interest. Because of my intimate awareness of the community and its needs, I have been able to build a dynamic team of peer support specialists, doulas, and licensed clinical support. I am honored to have come full circle and return my love and support to my city.