Board Of Directors

Calvin Miller, President – Calvin served active duty in the Air Force for 22 years, before retiring and moving to Idaho where he now works as a Logistics Manager (Civil Service) for a squadron at the Mountain Home Air Force Base.  He has been married to his wonderful wife Carolyn for over  thirty years. Calvin has been associated with JEMfriends for several years through his church, Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church-Boise.  He began as a volunteer helping to move donated items to the different homes.  His interest then turned to Life Skills mentoring in the area of finance/budgeting.

Josiah Barrett, Treasurer – Josiah Barrett has been an integral part of JEMfriends since its founding.  He has invested countless hours into the lives of youth, not only through JEMfriends, but also as a coach in various sports.  He is passionate about mentoring and giving youth a foundation for a healthy life.  He is a busy entrepreneur as the owner of J-BAR Enterprises and he loves Idaho’s country life.

Jacqueline Apsley, Secretary – Jacqueline Apsley has been mentoring teens and young adults for over thirty years.  Having experienced a difficult childhood herself, she has a unique perspective and the capacity to come alongside teens and young adults in difficult situations.  She is passionate about continuing to use her experiences to contribute to the lives of young people aging out of foster care.

Kimbra Shaw, Director – Kimbra and her family have lived in Idaho for 20 years. Family is central to her values and she enjoys having everyone over for Sunday dinner. She came to JEMfriends because of the family-like connections they help JEMyouth create. Her passion is for developing leaders and creating organizational stability and sustainability. She brings deep experience in multiple sectors ranging from large corporate sales to community development. Kimbra is a consummate learner and enjoys solving challenges and helping nonprofits better understand and meet the needs of our community.

Liberty (Barrett) Thompson, Founder and Executive Director – Liberty grew up in the Boise, Idaho, area as the third of seven siblings.  From a young age, she demonstrated a concern for the orphans and forgotten and pursued friendships with those overlooked by others.  In 2008, Liberty founded JEMfriends with the vision that each youth aging out of foster care would have opportunities to flourish in a society that understands their adversity and supports them in becoming loving adults.  Currently, Liberty serves as the Executive Director for JEMfriends, leading several programs that support aged out youth and increasing awareness about the needs of these youth in the community. She also  engages many youth in the community through personal mentoring and coaching. She is enthusiastic, motivated, and creative in her leadership of the JEMfriends community.  Her life goal is to passionately serve others as Jesus did and to love without overlooking anyone. She enjoys spending time with her husband Daniel and daughter, Jaynah.