independent health insurance educator – medicare

program manager, city and county of denver

Ken Arellano brings 25 years of workforce development experience dedicated to expanding opportunities for underrepresented and underserved populations. His career has centered on connecting individuals, community organizations, and employers to create pathways to meaningful employment and long‑term economic stability. Ken has led cross‑sector workgroups, strengthened contract compliance systems, and built partnerships that elevate equity in workforce access. He is passionate about sharing workforce principles, mentoring emerging practitioners, and contributing to a stronger, more inclusive Denver. As a board member of the Senior Assistance Center, Ken is committed to supporting it as an innovative and essential community resource that adapts to the evolving needs of seniors across the Denver metro area.

founder, miyahara & associates llc

Jane Miyahara brings over 20 years of experience in early childhood special education, focused on designing and implementing inclusive systems that support young children and their families. Her work has spanned district, state and national leadership roles, where she has partnered with educators, families, and community organizations to improve access to high-quality programming and services. Jane is the co-founder of Miyahara and Associates, LLC, where she provides systems-level consultation to schools and organizations. She is passionate about bringing people together, bridging systems and communities to create meaningful, sustainable outcomes. As a board member of the Senior Assistance Center, Jane is committed to supporting programs that promote dignity, connection, and well-being for older adults in the Denver metro area.

vice president of sales, benefits life

Carissa grew up in Highlands Ranch, Colorado and has lived in the Denver community for over 25 years. Carissa loves experiencing Colorado’s beautiful outdoors and enjoys bringing her 4 Australian Shepherds along with her hiking, camping, and paddle boarding. Carissa is the Vice President at Benefits Life, an agency located in Denver Colorado that supports health and life insurance agents across the region. Among other responsibilities, she is responsible for connecting agents to and creating community engagement initiatives to promote overall Medicare awareness and education. Carissa graduated from University of Denver Magna Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s Degree in International Business and Minor in Spanish. Carissa has been supporting older adults in different roles for most of her life including her family’s foundation which is dedicated to enhancing the lives of developmentally challenged adults with little to no family support. She was previously a representative and manager with Humana involved in numerous initiatives dedicated to closing the gaps in care for older adults between providers and health insurance companies. She has also been involved in numerous non-profit initiatives dedicated to connect older adults to resources to combat food insecurity, loneliness, housing instability, income/employment opportunities and lack of transportation. Her efforts have focused on creating programs that enhance access to healthcare for older adults and building partnerships that support the community’s holistic health needs. Carissa is a servant leader who is passionate about solving challenges for others, especially older adults who have unique needs and circumstances. Carissa has witnessed firsthand the lack of resources accessible to older adults in the community. This experience has created her passion and advocacy for older adults. The Senior Assistance Center’s mission aligns with Carissa’s commitment to connecting older adults to resources and improving their health and well-being.