Our Amazing Board of Directors

 Brian is an Associate Social Worker with both a Master of Social Work and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from California State University, Monterey Bay. He brings a strong foundation in addiction counseling and mental health, supported by earlier degrees from Diablo Valley College in Psychology, Health Education, and Addiction Counseling. Brian has extensive experience in both community-based and clinical settings providing clinical psychotherapy, substance use treatment, and enhanced case management for both adults and adolescents. Deeply committed to service, Brian remains actively involved in local recovery fellowships and is passionate about empowering individuals and fostering community wellness. 

 Jose currently works as a Psychiatric Social Worker in the emergency department, where he provides crisis stabilization and psychiatric support to individuals experiencing acute mental health needs. His career spans nearly a decade in community mental health, working with diverse populations including foster youth, justice-involved individuals, and clients with co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders.  Jose is a passionate advocate for LGBTQ+ mental health, partnering with local community organizations to expand access to affirming, culturally competent care. As a first-generation Mexican American and openly gay clinician, he brings a deeply personal and intersectional lens to his advocacy, blending lived experience with clinical expertise. 

 Laurie is a loving mother and enthusiastic coach who has a passion for bringing emotional regulation through physical activity to people with disabilities. Her education from CSU Monterey Bay in Human Development & Family Science, along with Kinesiology, supports her calling to provide this essential service to a unique and often underserved population. As a dedicated advocate for individuals with autism—including her own son—Laurie is deeply committed to creating inclusive spaces where everyone can thrive. With over 20 years of coaching experience in the Salinas area, she continues to be a pillar of support and encouragement in her community. Laurie cares deeply for all people and is always looking for ways to give back, uplift others, and foster connection through movement and mentorship. 

 Lori Lochtefeld is a highly successful entrepreneur who has outstanding communication and leadership skills. For 12 years, Lori owned and recently sold two 1000-seat theatres where she booked authors, consultants, speakers, musicians, and comedians. She produced an event for President Barack Obama and hosted the Premiere and Launch Party of Oprah Winfrey’s TV series called “Belief”, among many other prestigious events. Lori was voted “Business Woman of the Year” by the Redwood City Chamber of Commerce in 2019. She also was voted “Dreamer of the Year” by the Dreamer Network for youth.  A San Francisco native, Lori holds a B.A. degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Commercial Real Estate Finance from the University of Southern California. 

 Samantha is a survivor of personal and generational harm. Rooted in lived wisdom and system impact, she creates sacred spaces where healing, remembrance, and resistance meet. Guided by the belief that healing is a radical act of liberation, she supports survivors and those who have caused harm. Including incarcerated and formerly incarcerated individuals, at risk youth, and BIPOC communities in reconnecting with their bodies, stories, and sacred power through trauma informed care. Additionally, she has worked closely with children on the spectrum, offering compassionate and culturally grounded support. She walks this path with humility, prayer, and intention toward collective healing and cultural reclamation.