Kristen Cabalka

Kristen had the joy of becoming a case manager for Bakersfield Angels when the chapter launched in September 2020, then became the Love Box Director in Spring 2021. She is privileged to be a part of a big-hearted, quick-thinking, solutions-based team that finds ways to radically support the foster care community in Kern County. 

Kristen’s compassionate heart for children from hard places stems from having four close relatives who are adopted. She has seen firsthand that emotional and practical support are necessary for children and parents who are learning how to be family in less conventional ways, such as through foster care and adoption. Her personal experiences led Kristen to get a Bachelor’s in Social Work from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, and then to work in adoption social work prior to having children of her own. She has found her sweet spot at Bakersfield Angels and truly respects the incredible families in the Love Box program.

Kristen’s more fun, creative, gentle other half is Joe, her husband of 11 years. They have four beloved kids--Eisley (8), Rhett (6), Dane (4), and Archer (2). When not doing "mom stuff," Kristen loves to travel, watch Jeopardy, and enjoy long meals with great friends.