About Us

People as Priority

Kinship takes a personalized approach to small business growth and performance. We establish long-term relationships committed to helping your business set and reach new goals. You have the talent and a passion for your product or service; let us take on the burden of HR and administrative work. We are dedicated to promoting the unique values of independent businesses and nonprofit organizations to build a thriving community. 

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KC Upshaw, PHR

Owner, Consultant

I founded Kinship HR as a way to invest my skills in our vital small business community. I’ve dedicated my career to promoting sustainable growth in the hospitality, food and beverage, and nonprofit sectors. After serving as the HR manager at multiple growing companies, I knew that amplifying success for other organizations was my true calling. I earned my undergrad in Public Affairs from Seattle University, and my post-graduate Human Resources Management certificate from Cornell University. I’m currently pursuing a Masters degree in Industrial-Organizational Psychology from Missouri University.

Across all industries and organizations, I’ve found one constant—the people make the business. Investing in the team and the customer creates lasting results that continually exceed expectations. As an HRCI-certified Professional in Human Resources, I bring my experience, expertise, and solutions-based commitment to every partnership.

I made the move to the Olympic Peninsula from Seattle in 2017. I fill my personal time with dog walks, shared meals with friends and family, sewing, cooking, and endless podcast-listening. I’m enthusiastic, excitable, and energetic, and I find more to love about Port Townsend every day.

 

Paige Irwin, PHR

Administrative Manager

I came to Kinship HR with the drive to provide the best support for small businesses as they navigate growth through defining their mission, strengthening policies, and pursuing sustained success. 

I developed my dedication to quality in my experience as the Operations Manager for a community kitchen and cooking school, then honed my commitment to detail as a Program Manager at a large tech company. As a Volunteer Educator for several small food and gardening nonprofits, I understand the unique culture and responsibilities of community-based work. Now, I’ve earned my SHRM-CP certification and take a fine-toothed comb to things at Kinship, putting the final polish on our work. I’m a mother to two curious toddlers and love letter-writing and crafting a mean snack spread. 

 

Thoughts on Kinship…

“I can attest highly to KC’s abilities in creating a happy work environment even under stressful and chaotic situations. I always felt comfortable discussing any work issues with her and appreciated their expeditious resolution. She truly is a gem for any business that chooses to employ her services.”

— Former employee

"I was impressed by KC's ability to quickly grasp my organization's needs, propose creative solutions, and get right to work. She is perceptive, insightful, and a great communicator. She is easy to work with and very responsive. I highly recommend her services. She is a knowledgeable professional who gets things done!"

— Client

“[KC has a] desire to listen and truly hear people, finding what they are passionate about and utilizing their strengths to the benefit of the workplace and individual. [She demonstrates] fairness, intuition, optimism and great communication.”

— Colleague

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Mission

Kinship’s mission is to amplify community success through small business support and solutions.

We create clear and lasting resources to overcome challenges with sustainable growth in mind. We prioritize the unique values of your independent business and nurture your talented team.

 
 
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Vision

We envision a thriving local business community where leaders can focus on their passions, assisted by Kinship and built through lasting relationships.

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Values

People - People as Priority. Businesses thrive only when employees and customers are treated with care. Culture impacts results; authentic relationships and collaboration are integral to long-term success.

Spirit - I’m as passionate about working on your business as you are passionate in your business. I have boundless admiration and respect for each individual’s dedication to their endeavor and will never ask you to compromise that. 

Performance - My commitment to performance is founded in value of systems, solutions, results and customer satisfaction. Simply put, I won’t quit until I find a sustainable solution that exceeds your expectations. 

Service - You provide the best possible product to your customers. I honor that by providing you with my best: dedicated, thorough, and honest service; follow through; attention to detail for compliance; personalized solutions; and precision throughout our partnership.