Founder - Executive Director

Alex Murrell is a Portland native, entrepreneur, and community builder dedicated to creating inclusive spaces where people of all backgrounds can connect, grow, and thrive. As the owner of Stickers Asian Cafe, a local favorite for over 27 years, Alex has built lasting relationships through food, culture, and shared experiences. His passion for fostering meaningful connections extends to his role as Executive Director of Dream Big City, where he leads initiatives that bring people together through creativity, music, skating, basketball, and community engagement, all within safe, alcohol- and drug-free environments.

With over 23 years of experience supporting the recovery community, Alex understands the importance of spaces that promote well-being and belonging. His collaborative approach fuels partnerships with local businesses, schools, and nonprofits, amplifying their impact and creating opportunities for youth and adults alike.

As a proud father of two talented children, both active skaters, artists, and musicians, Alex is committed to building a stronger, more connected Portland where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. He also serves on the board of directors for Skaters for Portland Skateparks, furthering his dedication to the skateboarding community.

Director of Finance

Karissa Dobrzanski, a West Coast native, spent her early years in Washington, Oregon, and California before moving to South Florida at age 11. She earned her Master of Accounting degree from Florida International University in Miami and became a licensed CPA in 2012 while working as a Senior Auditor in public accounting. In 2013, she relocated to Portland, OR, where she gained experience in corporate finance and e-commerce at theclymb.com and Nike. With a passion for problem-solving and process improvement, Karissa launched her own consulting business, supporting clients with financial reporting, compliance, and process optimization.

Beyond her career, Karissa leads an active life with her husband and their four children, enjoying skateboarding, snowboarding, biking, and hiking throughout the Pacific Northwest. Dedicated to empowering youth and fostering inclusive spaces, she has volunteered as a skate coach with Skate Like a Girl, helping young skaters build confidence and resilience. Her commitment to supporting local communities led her to serve as Treasurer on the organization’s Board of Directors. Whether mentoring youth, collaborating with nonprofits, or exploring the outdoors with her family, Karissa is passionate about creating opportunities that inspire the next generation to thrive.

Director of Development 

Deven is a West Coast native who has called the Pacific Northwest home for the last three years. Since arriving in Portland, he has become deeply entrenched in both the recovery and basketball communities, bringing heart, leadership, and a talent for turning vision into action.

Deven holds a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and Marketing, and has a background in corporate sales, nonprofit development, and project management. His variety of professional experience which includes Project and Asset management for one of the country’s largest Real Estate development firms and sales for the world’s largest data company prove just how versatile he is. In 2021, he launched a social enterprise coffee roasting business that provided job training and employment for individuals overcoming houselessness and addiction, an accomplishment he’s especially proud of.

A longtime supporter of Dream Big City, Deven attended the very first FamJam five years ago, engaging with youth and building community from the beginning. At his core, he’s driven by service, whether he's mentoring on the court, serving meals under the Burnside Bridge, or connecting people with resources. Now, he’s excited to help shape the future of Dream Big City by creating spaces where people can heal, connect, and grow.

Music and Basketball Director

DeAndre Woods, a lifelong resident of Gresham, OR, is dedicated to empowering youth through sports, music, and community engagement. As Basketball and Music Director for Dream Big City and FamJam, he helps create safe, inclusive spaces where young people can explore their passions, build confidence, and connect with others.

With a love for basketball, DeAndre mentors youth both on and off the court, coaching teams, running skills clinics, and organizing games at FamJam events. His experience with the Portland Trail Blazers and local programs reflects his belief that sports build discipline, teamwork, and resilience. In music, he is the CEO and Founder of Culture Shock and Trust No One Records, supporting emerging artists and mentoring musicians. His journey began as an intern at Cool Nutz Jus Family Records, where he discovered his passion for artist development.

Beyond sports and music, DeAndre’s culinary talents were showcased as a Sous Chef at Trap Kitchen in The Roseland, blending creativity and culture through food. Whether coaching, mentoring, or performing, DeAndre’s passion, positivity, and dedication to uplifting others make him a vital part of Dream Big City’s mission to inspire and support Portland’s youth.

Youth Director, Food and Beverage Lead

Cham Murrell is the proud owner of Stickers Asian Café, a beloved restaurant she has successfully run for 18 years. Originally from the Philippines, Cham migrated to the United States at the age of 21, bringing with her a rich cultural heritage that has greatly influenced her culinary creations. A dedicated mother of two, Cham extends her nurturing spirit to the children of the FamJam program at Dream Big City, where she serves as a mentor and guide, inspiring the next generation through her passion for food and community.

Art Director

Longtime skater and professional artist, Matt French has been a recurring character in the visual landscape of post-2000 skateboarding. Ever hungry to redefine how art corresponds with products in the boardsports world, he has been a heavy contributor to companies such as Volcom, Vans, Nike, Lib Tech, GNU, Grenade, and many others. As the art creator for Bones wheels, he continually adjusts the bar upward with what can and is being done in the world of skateboard art. When he isn’t skating, Matt can be found painting canvas or a wall in Portland, Oregon and beyond…

Nutrition and Agriculture Director

Meshaud Johnson is a proud Portland native dedicated to promoting health, creativity, and well-being within his community. As the CEO and Founder of Meanie Microgreens, he combines his love for skateboarding, mountain biking, and cooking to inspire healthier lifestyles. Through Meanie Microgreens, Meshaud cultivates nutrient-dense superfoods and regularly hosts plant-based cooking pop-ups that reimagine nostalgic childhood flavors with a healthy twist, bringing people together through food and shared experiences.

Passionate about empowering youth, Meshaud plays an active role at Dream Big City and FamJam, encouraging young people to explore their potential through skateboarding, basketball, music, and the arts. By promoting both physical activity and creative expression, he helps build confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging among the next generation.

With a deep belief in the power of mentorship and community, Meshaud leads by example, demonstrating that pursuing passions and prioritizing health can go hand in hand. Whether skating alongside local youth, sharing the benefits of healthy eating, or supporting young artists and athletes, he is committed to creating inclusive spaces where individuals can thrive mentally, physically, and creatively.

IT Director

Andrew Dobrzanski is a dedicated web developer with a passion for creating engaging and functional digital experiences. With a focus on creativity and innovation, he combines technical expertise with a thoughtful approach to design, ensuring that his work is both intuitive and visually compelling.

A lifelong skateboarder and former amateur sponsored skater, Andrew understands the positive impact that skateboarding and creative expression can have on youth. He is committed to supporting spaces where young people can explore their interests, build confidence, and connect with others.

Originally from Florida, Andrew now lives in Portland with his wife and four children. With a backyard skatepark at home, he encourages his kids to stay active and pursue their passions. Whether through his work in web development or his involvement in the skateboarding community, Andrew is dedicated to creating opportunities for growth and self-expression.

Youth Arts and Crafts Director

Joan Frances is a seasoned corporate events planner with 30 years of experience in the industry. She served as the Marketing Director at Realvest Corporation in Vancouver, WA, before retiring. Passionate about community engagement, Joan is an event team organizer for Giving in PDX and volunteers for REACH. Additionally, she leads the Famjam youth arts and crafts program, fostering creativity and connection among young participants.

Food and Beverage Director, Youth Arts Lead

With a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the California College of the Arts and a Master of Fine Arts from the University of Oregon, John Sinclair is a seasoned graphic designer and illustrator. He has contributed his creative expertise at Branch & Bauer Agency and has also taught creativity and writing at Mt. Hood Community College. A retired restaurant owner, John now leads the food and beverage operations at FamJam events, while also actively participating in the youth arts program to foster creativity and artistic expression in the community.