You may have notived, the Futurewise team has been growing! Marrisa is now on board to help us keep the electric trains running on time. We’re excited to have her –

Tell us a little about yourself! How did you end up at Futurewise?

Before moving to Seattle in 2024, I spent nearly a decade in Colorado working with diverse communities and managing projects dedicated to advancing equity and impact. My career has taken me across the private, public, and nonprofit sectors in areas such as public health, economic security, early childhood development, and education.

I’m passionate about equitable community engagement, capacity building, and strategic planning. I also love helping mission-driven organizations strengthen their systems and structures so they can make a greater impact. Joining Futurewise as the organization’s first Operations Manager felt like the perfect opportunity to bring those skills to a team driving meaningful, systems-level change right here in Washington.

Why do you believe in Futurewise’s work? Why do you think what we do is important?

My work is guided by a commitment to equity and justice through an anti-oppression framework. With a background in community and behavioral health, I understand how the social determinants of health (e.g., housing, transportation, and access to green space) are deeply connected to the well-being of our communities.

I believe in Futurewise’s mission because advocating for healthy, equitable, and thriving communities goes hand in hand with protecting the environment that sustains them. The work we do ensures that Washington grows in ways that are sustainable, just, and rooted in care for both people and place.

What do you do outside of work?

Outside of work, you’ll often find me outdoors. I love exploring Washington’s incredible public lands through camping, backpacking, and hiking with my dog. When I’m not outside, I’m probably curled up with a good book, catching live music with my partner, or tuning in to the current season of Seattle’s professional women’s sports teams.

What’s your favorite thing about living in Washington?

After years of living near the Rocky Mountains, I missed being close to water—something that’s part of my Midwest roots. Washington has the best of both worlds: mountains, forests, and the sound, all in one place. I also love that the state’s progressive spirit is reflected in its commitment to sustainability, inclusion, and innovation. It’s an inspiring place to live and work.

If you could snap your fingers and fix one issue facing our state, what would it be?

If I could fix one issue in our state, it would be the growing economic disparities. It’s striking that Washington is home to some of the world’s most successful corporations (e.g., Microsoft and Amazon) yet so many residents still struggle to afford stable housing, childcare, and other basic needs.

We have an incredible concentration of wealth here, but the benefits aren’t shared equitably. I’d love to see a Washington where prosperity is more inclusive—where every community has access to affordable housing, reliable transportation, and the economic security needed to thrive. Addressing these disparities isn’t just about fairness; it’s essential for building a resilient, connected, and sustainable future for everyone who calls this state home.

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You can reach Marrisa at [email protected]