Kathryn Salazar
Katy had first learned about Safe Families through the book “The Gospel Comes with a House Key” by Rosaria Butterfield. Upon learning about the organization, Katy and her husband quickly attended meetings with the local Austin chapter intending to become a volunteer. Shortly after, they moved to Houston and became integrated in the Safe Families Launch team.
Katy worked as a nurse for 3 years and in that period of time, she became more passionate for proactive care, family preservation and serving underprivileged populations. Katy currently works within the field of cybersecurity. In her free time, she loves to play any and all sports, travel, and explore the city of Houston with her husband and far too spoiled dog.
Michelle Goldman
Michelle’s a native Texan from the Houston-Galveston area with more than ten years’ experience in nonprofit administration. However, one of the most impactful moments of her career came while working for a foster care agency on a special project in which she witnessed the selfless love demonstrated by foster parents as they mentored biological parents to strengthen and support them in reuniting with their children. Michelle knows the deep sadness that comes from losing a parent, that we’re all just a stone’s throw from needing the help of a stranger, and the hope that comes from experiencing Christ’s love.
Years later when she came across Safe Families for Children, she knew it was something she wanted to be a part of and offered to help launch a chapter in Houston. When she’s not working or serving, Michelle enjoys experiencing God’s creation with her husband, stepson and daughter.
Jada Washington
Jada Washington is a proud Houston native with a Master’s in Counseling and Development and a heart for advocacy. With over 10 years in customer service, 5 years in education, and 3 years in mental health and philanthropy, Jada brings a well-rounded and compassionate approach to every space she enters. Her passion for Safe Families began through a simple conversation with a coworker and quickly grew into a mission—to keep children out of the system and support families in staying together.
Raised by her grandparents, Jada deeply understands the power of nurturing environments. When she’s not giving back to her community, she enjoys daily walks, running marathons, and lighting up every room she enters with her warmth and energy.
Jalen Salazar
Jalen Salazar is a proud member of the launch team for Safe Families for Children Houston. By day, he works in the cybersecurity industry, but his heart for helping others has always extended beyond the 9 to 5. As a first-generation college graduate who grew up in a home where his young parents didn’t always have the support they needed, Jalen understands how vital it is for families to feel seen, supported, and surrounded by community. While he originally joined Safe Families to support his wife—who introduced him to the organization—he quickly realized how deeply the mission aligned with his strengths and values. A natural communicator who loves being around children, Jalen brings energy, reliability, and a team-first mindset to everything he does. He’s passionate about helping build something meaningful from the ground up and thrives in environments where collaboration leads to lasting impact.
Outside of work, Jalen loves staying active and spending quality time with his wife and family. He’s excited to help create a culture at Safe Families Houston where people feel safe, cared for, and never alone.
