Kelly McDermott was born and raised in Reno, NV, and grew up on a ranch in Red Rock with a zoo of animals. She had many hobbies and kept busy babysitting the local kids, running AP class functions, and acting in the high school theater program. While Kelly obtained her BS in Human Development and Families Studies at the University of Nevada, Reno, she was a lead teacher at Purple Door preschool, served and bartended at Great Basin Brewery, volunteered as a “Big” for Big Brothers Big Sisters and fell in love with giving back to the community.

Now she is making an impact in the lives of children with cancer as the Programs and Services Manager for NNCCF. As the Programs and Services Manager, she assists in the implementation of NNCCF’s programs, including emotional and financial support, family events, bell ringing celebrations, the Inspire Scholarship Program, and the Hope for the Holidays program.

Kelly is happily married to her best friend Jake, expecting her first child, has three fur babies, loves to travel, be outdoors, live in the music, and create memories with her friends and family.

Why I started working at NNCCF:
I dedicate myself to this job because it allows me to serve children and families who need that extra love, laughs, and support in their lives. In the same vein, it also allows me to work alongside other genuinely kind, fun individuals who only wish to help others as well. NNCCF truly is one big family.

Ask me about:
Movies, music, and travel. And go!

What I think is amazing:
Human strength, resilience, and compassion.

Something quirky about me:
I am a Disney-obsessed theater geek. I was voted most likely to win an Oscar in High School and starred in a few short films in college.

My role model:
My parents, they are the most forgiving, supportive, and compassionate people I know. I have learned so much from them. They surprise and inspire me daily.

My favorite quote:
“We will run and scream, you will dance with me, we’ll fulfill our dreams, and we’ll be free, we will be who we are, and we’ll he’ll our scars, sadness will be far away.” – Mumford & Sons