Staff And Leadership

Eli Blackman (he/him/his)
Interim Executive Director

Despite being born and raised in the Portland area, Eli didn't stumble into Forest Park until adulthood. Immediately enamored, he began a steady progression to expanding his Forest Park orbit: first as a park user, then as a volunteer with FPC, then helping fundraise for FPC, then joining an FPC committee, and finally becoming a board member of FPC. Now, he's honored to support the staff and organization in a part-time capacity as interim ED.

In his free time, Eli does whatever it is his children wish to do in their free time.

Email Eli or call him at 503-223-5449, ext 105

Zachary Peal (he/him/his)
Director of Stewardship & Community Engagement

Zac grew up in Texas but has lived throughout the U.S. working on various campaigns. He graduated from St. Edward's University in Austin, Texas with a degree in political science. He's helped campaigns with outreach, volunteer engagement, fundraising, and leadership development. He's an avid runner and is deeply committed to safeguarding our natural resources.

Email Zac or call him at 503-223-5449, ext 106

Chie Togo (she/her/hers)
Director of Operations

Chie brings more than 10 years of experience from non-profit organizations to FPC. Chie oversees FPC's office operations and provides administrative support. She also supports FPC's Stewardship Program.

When you don't see her in the office, you will find her running in Forest Park, hiking trails at Columbia Gorge, practicing yoga or working on her garden at home.  

Email Chie or call 503-223-5449, ext 101

Mikey Brooks (he/him/his)
Communications Manager

Mikey was born in Oregon and lived in the state his whole life. Mikey is currently acting as a communications manager for FPC, working to help manage the organization's outgoing communications. He got his bachelor's degree from the University of Oregon, majoring in environmental science. He highly values science communication and community engagement in his work as he aims to connect people to the importance of the organization's work.

In his free time, he likes to listen to podcasts, cook, and play Dungeons and Dragons.

Email Mikey or call 503-223-5449, ext 107

Josh Rentschler (he/him)                                                                                                            Development Manager

Josh hails from the state of South Dakota (ooooh heyyy!), but made his way to Portland via our nation’s capital, D.C.. His nonprofit experience includes advocating for LGBTQ+ rights with the Human Rights Campaign, addressing food insecurity with Portland Fruit Tree Project, and three years supporting Willamette Week's year-end fundraising campaign, Give!Guide.

When he isn't raising funds to support Portland's urban oasis, he's most likely biking to the nearest breakfast burrito.

Email Josh or call 503-223-5449, ext 103

Kyla Jarka (she/her)                                                                                                                      Stewardship Manager & Trails Coordinator

Kyla grew up on the west side of Portland, playing in the mud at Cedar Mill Falls and learning about native plants during summer camp in Forest Park. These experiences led her to pursue a career in natural areas stewardship, trail restoration, and climate advocacy in Chicago, Tucson, and finally back home in Portland.  As FPC's Stewardship & Trails Manager, Kyla supports these programs through field work, volunteer management, and program development. Off the trails, Kyla enjoys eating her way through Portland, reading sci-fi, and community organizing. 

Email Kyla or call 503-223-5449, ext 109