Jeremy Renner’s RennerVation Foundation Expands Team to Deepen Support for Foster Youth
[Reno, Nevada] — RennerVation Foundation, a public charity dedicated to transforming outcomes for foster youth in Nevada, proudly announces new hires significantly expanding the organization’s capacity to deliver holistic, high-impact programming across his home state of Nevada. These new team members join an already passionate and experienced group committed to empowering foster youth.
At the helm of this strategic growth is Valieria Koss, MPP, who joins as Executive Director. A seasoned nonprofit leader, Valieria brings extensive expertise in education, grant management, donor relations, and strategic partnerships. Her leadership experience includes roles with the University of Nevada, Reno, Teach For America Greater New Orleans, the Boys & Girls Club of Palm Beach County, and the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. With a master's degree in public policy from Pepperdine University, she is poised to drive RennerVation’s next phase of growth and innovation.
Other new team members include:
- Tessa Pieretti, Program Coordinator, Pave Your Way – A Reno native with a background in public health and trauma-informed care, Tessa leads the Pave Your Way program, which supports foster youth ages 16–24 through personalized case management, life skills development, and housing support. A key component of this initiative includes the development of brick-and-mortar transitional housing to provide safe and stable living environments.
- Kelly Burrows, Director of Donor Relations – With over a decade in administration and operations management and previous nonprofit experience at United Way of Northern Nevada and the Sierra, Kelly leads donor engagement and fundraising efforts to support RennerVation’s mission-driven work.
Founded by actor and philanthropist Jeremy Renner and his sister President & CEO Kym Renner, a longtime public servant with deep expertise in child welfare, RennerVation Foundation brings together lived experience, professional leadership, and a deep commitment to creating real change for Nevada’s foster youth. Vice President Shana Rogers, a Foster Care Licensing Specialist with the Nevada Division of Child and Family Services, adds over 15 years of experience working with children and families to the Foundation’s leadership team.
The dynamic team also includes:
- Chris Hartman, Program Coordinator, Youth on the Move & Foster Fashion
- Raven Hilyard, Community Development Coordinator
- Heidi Rich, Director of Programs
- Kati Cearley, Director of Marketing and Communications
Upcoming Programming: Empowerment Through Access, Connection, and Stability
RennerVation Foundation is proud to launch a range of impactful programs in 2025 aimed at helping Nevada’s foster youth build self-sufficiency and confidence as they transition into adulthood:
- Pave Your Way – Offers direct case management for youth aged 16–24 focused on independent living, job readiness, and essential life skills. The program includes brick-and-mortar housing development for youth who need stable, supportive living environments.
- Youth on the Move – Provides after-school transportation to and from extracurricular and community activities, keeping foster youth engaged and connected.
- Foster Fashion – An empowering program that allows youth to explore creativity, confidence, and self-expression through fashion.
- Summer Camps – Following the success of 2024 there are two summer sessions planned for 2025, these camps provide foster youth with the opportunity to experience the joy and growth of a true summer camp environment.
As RennerVation is a donation based public charity the organization is actively seeking donations to fund these transformative initiatives.
“We’re doing this differently—working with everyone, not in spite of anyone,” says Kym Renner, President & CEO of RennerVation Foundation. “Together, we’re creating a continuum of care where foster youth are supported, seen, and equipped to succeed—and eventually, pay it forward.”
To donate, make a referral, or learn more, visit www.rennervationfoundation.org
RennerVation Foundation Media Kit
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About the RennerVation Foundation
RennerVation Foundation is a youth-focused public charity, founded by Kym and Jeremy Renner, based in Nevada, established in 2023, with a mission to offer children in foster care and at-risk youth the chance to embrace a childhood filled with joy, growth, and belonging. The RennerVation Foundation is dedicated to serving children in foster care and at-risk youth by providing them with a safe haven and targeted programs to develop their skills, confidence and opportunities. Every child deserves a chance to thrive and reach their full potential, regardless of their circumstances. Through a combination of mentorship, educational support, and enrichment programs, we strive to empower these youth to overcome challenges and build a brighter future. For more information on this or other RennerVation Foundation programs and events, please visit www.rennervationfoundation.org.
MJ Brackin
