Bringing People Together

College is supposed to be both an educational and a life-learning experience. For Kari-lynn Frank, High Point Community Builder, it was life-altering. While studying at the University of Montana, the star student and athlete suffered a stroke. Although rehabilitation would take only a few months, the emotional effects would change her forever. “I began to empathize much more strongly with people, particularly those who were underserved” said Kari-lynn. “I felt I had an obligation to empower them.”

Graduating with a degree in marketing, Kari-lynn ventured to Seattle with little more than a suitcase and $12 on her Discover Card. Having a passion for politics, she started a lobbying firm and began lobbying and consulting for local organizations, including the Puyallup Tribe.

In 1998, she became the tribe’s Intergovernmental and Media Relations Manager. During that time, she also volunteered for President Clinton and Vice President Al Gore, even traveling to Belfast with the President and his staff to promote the Good Friday Peace Accord.

Three years later, Kari-lynn returned to her own firm, consulting on campaigns and teaching advocacy skills and tactics to the general public. The following year, she joined the campaign for Referendum 51 and, in 2003, was hired by Seattle Housing as High Point’s Community Builder.

In her role as Community Builder, Kari-lynn works with Seattle Housing’s low-income tenants, connecting them to resources within the community. “I’m a strong believer in outside collaboration and social connectedness. I want to bring the entire community together — schools, businesses, service providers and residents.”

Kari-lynn’s vision for High Point is a seamless community, where neighbors feel mutually respected and honored. “I want this to be a neighborhood where everyone can share their unique gifts; where when you come home, you’re excited to be here.”

That’s a feeling Kari-lynn is very familiar with. “Every morning I get to wake up and be of service,” she said. “How great is that?”