Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Kelsey McGarry

Los Angeles

Summary

Strategic leader in the homeless services system with a strong track record in project management, cross-sector collaboration, and systems-level problem-solving. Recognized for bringing a data-informed, equity-centered approach to service delivery and policy implementation. Skilled in translating complex challenges into actionable strategies that improve program performance and client outcomes. Highly adaptable and solutions-oriented, with strong analytical, communication, and facilitation skills. Committed to continuous learning, system transformation, and advancing impactful, person-centered solutions to homelessness.

Overview

10
10
years of professional experience

Work History

Coordinator, Time-Limited Subsidies

Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority
09.2021 - Current

Technical Assistance Provider at LAHSA, lead agency of LA’s Continuum of Care. Lead system design and oversight for Rapid Re-Housing and DV/IPV programs, including program standards, training, and compliance tools. Deliver targeted technical assistance, oversee funding allocation and budget spenddown, and foster cross-sector collaboration to strengthen service delivery, address systemic barriers, and improve outcomes for vulnerable populations.

Managing Director

MashUp Contemporary Dance Company
07.2024 - Current

Oversee organizational operations, including HR, finance, budgeting, and legal compliance. Lead vendor management and strategic planning efforts. Drive fundraising strategy, donor engagement, and event execution; manage board relations and represent the organization within the arts and wider community. Cultivate partnerships with local arts organizations to deepen community impact. Maintain strong funder relationships and oversee the full grant cycle, from proposal development to reporting and compliance.

Program Supervisor

Washington Department of Veteran Affairs
08.2019 - 10.2020

Promoted to Program Supervisor, overseeing three staff members their respective programs. Served as acting lead of Veteran Homeless Service System in Seattle/King County, providing technical assistance and subject matter expertise.

Developed case conferencing protocols aligned with Fair Housing laws and CEA policy to enhance housing placements for veterans. Partnered with the Performance Measurement and Evaluation Team to strengthen data quality and improve the accuracy and impact of the Veteran By-Name List.

Veteran Specialist II

Washington Department of Veteran Affairs
07.2018 - 08.2019

Earned expedited promotion to permanent status as Veteran Specialist II based on performance. Served as lead housing navigator for unsheltered veterans, designing targeted program activities and overseeing eligibility tracking and participant engagement. Provided intensive support with discharge upgrades, VA and VHA benefit applications, and Social Security access to remove barriers to housing and stability.

Lead Case Manager

Community Psychiatric Clinic, Supportive Services for Veteran Families
01.2017 - 06.2018

Led statewide outreach across shelters, encampments, libraries, colleges, service centers, and public agencies to engage veteran households experiencing homelessness. Supported the implementation of nearly $4 million in VA grant funding, delivering direct services and housing-focused interventions to increase stability and access to care for veterans.

Case Manager

The Salvation Army, William Booth Center
10.2015 - 01.2017

Harm reduction case manager at Seattle’s largest 24 hour emergency shelter for 200+ men experiencing homelessness.

Education

Bachelor of Arts - Social Work

Seattle University
Seattle, WA
09.2015

Skills

  • Operations management
  • Staff management
  • Active system management
  • Strategic partnerships & planning
  • Contract management
  • Collaboration
  • Technical assistance
  • Facilitation skills
  • Grant writing
  • Coalition development
  • Problem-solving
  • Organizational skills

Timeline

Managing Director

MashUp Contemporary Dance Company
07.2024 - Current

Coordinator, Time-Limited Subsidies

Los Angeles Homeless Services Authority
09.2021 - Current

Program Supervisor

Washington Department of Veteran Affairs
08.2019 - 10.2020

Veteran Specialist II

Washington Department of Veteran Affairs
07.2018 - 08.2019

Lead Case Manager

Community Psychiatric Clinic, Supportive Services for Veteran Families
01.2017 - 06.2018

Case Manager

The Salvation Army, William Booth Center
10.2015 - 01.2017

Bachelor of Arts - Social Work

Seattle University