Ubax Gardheere
Community Development Program Lead Manager @King County, WA
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WORK HISTORY
Community Development Program Lead Manager @King County, WA
King County, WA, US
As Community Development Program Lead within King County’s Housing & Community Development Division (HCD), I oversee three major capital initiatives advancing equitable community investment across the county:• Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) – Federal HUD funding implemented in partnership with a consortium of 38 cities• Puget Sound Taxpayer Accountability Account (PSTAA) – Early Learning Facilities strategy• Best Starts for Kids (BSK) Capital Grant ProgramThis portfolio supports infrastructure improvements, community and recreation facilities, early learning centers, economic development projects, and family child care spaces serving low- and moderate-income communities.I lead a multidisciplinary team and manage complex capital funding streams with federal, state, and local compliance requirements. My work focuses on aligning funding strategy, governance, procurement, contract compliance, environmental review, reporting, and interlocal coordination to ensure equitable and effective deployment of public resources.In partnership with cities, community organizations, and County leadership, I help shape policy direction, strengthen systems, and steward public investment to expand opportunity and build healthier communities.
EDUCATION
Seattle University
Master of Public Administration (MPA), Public Policy Analysis
Washington State University
Bachelor's degree, Management Information Systems, General
University of Washington
Fundraising Managment
ABOUT UBAX GARDHEERE
Ubax is a highly accomplished professional holding multiple positions, including Director of Investment and Fund Development for the Cultural Space Agency,Executive Director of Cultural Space Uplifted and Managing Director for Savannah Community Consultants. She has a strong background in community development and equitable practices. In her previous role as Equitable Development Initiative Division Director in the City of Seattle, she oversaw the EDI fund and successfully allocated $100 million to community-based organizations. She also played a crucial role in transferring City-owned property to Black-led organizations during the racial reckoning in 2020. Ubax\'s values revolve around social justice and transformative practice, and she prioritizes equity and community engagement. She has been involved in various initiatives such as the Housing Affordability Livability Agenda Committee, King County Communities of Opportunity and Seattle Foundation\'s COVID response Fund and the Fund for Inclusive Recovery. She also served on the board of the Regional Coalition for Housing, addressing housing challenges, Social Justice Fund NW and Northwest Immigrants Rights Project. Ubax\'s educational background includes a Bachelor\'s degree in Management Information Systems from Washington State University, a Fundraising Certificate from the University of Washington, and a Master\'s degree in Public Administration from Seattle University. This advanced degree equipped her with comprehensive knowledge of public administration principles, policy analysis, and leadership, enabling her to navigate complex roles and make a substantial impact in her field. With her academic achievements and wealth of practical experience, Ubax stands as a formidable leader in the realm of equitable economic development, Inclusive Community Engagement, Leadership Development and equitable practices. Despite her professional achievements, she remains a proud single parent to three energetic children, who inspire her and keep her actively engaged in both her personal and professional life.
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