Zach Powers

Tell Us a Little About Yourself

After growing up in Anchorage, Alaska I moved to Tacoma to attend Pacific Lutheran University and then I never left the City of Destiny. My career began in political campaigns and included early stints in journalism and arts nonprofit marketing. I then spent a decade working in higher education marketing and communications prior arriving at Elevate Health. 

Outside of the office, I write a freelance article or two per month for the Seattle Times’ Pacific NW Magazine; I play a lot of pickup basketball and watch even more basketball on tv; I hang out with my two elementary-age kids and my wife, and I recently completed an MFA in Creative Writing. 

Do You Have Any Pets?

A young cat name Scout and an old dog named Sherman.

What is Your Favorite Way to Relax?

Play with my kids or watch a game on tv.

When and Why Did You Join Elevate Health?

I joined Elevate Health in September 2024. I was drawn to the opportunity to contribute to an organization leading vital work in the community I love. This sector is new to me, and I’m enjoying the process of learning about what is being done — and what more can be done — to improve the health and well-being of Pierce County residents through community, equity, and innovation.

What Kind of Work Do You Do at Elevate Health?

I lead our communications efforts which include storytelling, marketing, branding, media relations, and more. My colleagues and I work to make the health, wellness, and equity work being done by Elevate Health — as well as our partners and peer institutions — more visible. Our communications work isn’t about our organization earning credit and acclaim, rather it’s about making the work visible so that we are well positioned to continue to build diverse coalitions and effective programs that have a substantial impact on our community and beyond.

What Do You Like About Working for Elevate Health?

It’s an incredibly supportive, innovative, and motivated team. Folks are here to make real change in our community. It’s an inspiring organization, largely because of the mission, the approach to the work, and the talented and passionate people who I get to work with.

What Is Your Favorite Thing To Do in Pierce County?

Take my kids and/or my dog to one of Tacoma’s many amazing beaches. Titlow Beach is our favorite, but Owen Beach and Jack Hyde Park are also in heavy rotation. 

What is Your Favorite Restaurant in Pierce County?

I live three blocks from Tacoma’s Sixth Avenue Business District, so I’ll keep it close to home and pick La Ca Bar and Asado. 

Are You Involved With Any Communities in Pierce County?

I coach youth basketball through the YMCA and I recently served as a board member at the YWCA Pierce County. I previously served on the board of the Tacoma Parks Foundation and have also served on the Tacoma Arts Commission and Metro Parks Tacoma’s Arts & Heritage Advisory Council.