Welcome Ben Umbel!

We are excited to announce that Ben Umbel has joined our Every Child team as Director for Polk County!

Ben and his wife, Tina, with their soon-to-be-adopted son and their Australian cattle dog, Stella, moved to Polk County in January of 2021. Ben has been a pastor since 2009 and is currently serving as the Branch Pastor for The Grove Community in Independence, OR.

Ben and his wife have been certified foster parents in Oregon since June of 2018. Their journey with Every Child started as volunteers in Lane County where they have helped with an ODHS visitation room makeover, Christmas events, My Neighbor, and hosting other foster families for Trauma Informed Parenting Classes.

Ben is a fluent in Spanish and is passionate about serving those who have been impacted by the Child Welfare System in Oregon. In his down time, Ben enjoys reading, movies, music, travel, woodworking, the outdoors, and spending time with his family.

Ben is a great addition and is looking forward to building new relationships throughout Polk County.

Welcome, Ben!