Jennifer Friend, J.D.

Chief Executive Officer

Prior to becoming CEO, Jennifer Friend enjoyed a successful career as a partner at a large law firm, representing national and international clients throughout the civil courts of California. While practicing law, she served as President and Secretary of the Project Hope Alliance Board of Directors and was actively engaged in the organization’s expansion and strategic growth. In 2013, Jennifer answered her calling, left her partnership, and became Project Hope Alliance’s full-time CEO. Since then, she has led PHA from a team of two to a mighty team focused on eliminating the barriers and filling in the gaps that homelessness causes in the lives of children and youth throughout Orange County.

Her personal experience as a homeless child in Orange County, which inspired the Broadway play Nomad Motel, fuels her deep-rooted passion and commitment to homeless children and youth, while her ability to cast vision, think strategically, and lead and direct broader systemic change uniquely qualify her to serve as Project Hope Alliance’s CEO.

Jennifer holds a J.D. from Whittier Law School and a B.A. in Criminology, Law, and Society from the University of California, Irvine, where she serves as a Trustee.

Rachel Cardenas, Psy.D

Chief Program Officer

Chief Program Officer

Shelby Feliciano-Sabala, MSW

Chief Partnership Officer

As a social worker, Shelby has worked in education for the past 15 years. Shelby is passionate about creating a culture of curiosity and infusing storytelling with intentional data collection, strategic planning, and community partnerships. In her role as Chief Partnership Officer, she creates and maintains partnerships with cities, districts, and other public entities to ensure youth experiencing homelessness have the resources and support to thrive. She received her Masters in Social Work from the University of Washington, focusing on community-centered integrative practice. She is currently pursuing her doctorate in Educational Leadership at Cal State Long Beach, studying the ways in which social-emotional learning competencies empower students. As a former AmeriCorps member, Shelby is passionate about the importance of community engagement, creating sustainable systems change, and intentional collaboration. She aims to bring her passion for social justice and systems change to Project Hope Alliance to ensure all youth have the opportunity to thrive.

Annie Song, MPA

Director of Development

Annie joined Project Hope Alliance as the Director of Development in spring 2023. Prior to PHA, Annie held roles at local youth serving nonprofit organizations including Orangewood Foundation and The Wooden Floor and recently served as the Director of Development at Cal State Fullerton’s College of Education. Annie is passionate about PHA’s mission and our thoughtful, long-term approach to addressing youth homelessness. Annie earned her bachelor’s degree in human services and master’s degree in public administration from Cal State Fullerton (Go Titans!)

Lizbeth Loyola, M.A.

Program Manager

Lizbeth joined Project Hope Alliance (PHA) in June 2018 as a bilingual Education Coordinator for the organization’s Bright Start program, offering academic support and school navigation for families with K-6 students. In her role, she attends parent-teacher conferences and IEP meetings to advocate for students’ needs and educational success. She conducts literacy and math assessments to implement academic interventions to bridge the learning gap, provides social and emotional referrals, and assists families during crisis situations.  Before joining PHA, Lizbeth served as an Instructional Provider for Santa Ana and Orange Unified School Districts and a Youth Development Professional at the Boys & Girls Club of Garden Grove. She holds a B.A. in Sociology from California State University, Fullerton, and has her M.P.A. from National University. **Hablo Espanol**

Chrissie Lee, M.S.W. PPSC

Internship Program Manager

Since 2013, Chrissie has served as a Case Manager for Project Hope Alliance’s (PHA) core Promotor Pathway Program, providing unsurpassed supportive counseling and advocacy for out-of-school youth. In her role, she conducts comprehensive assessments with young adults experiencing homelessness, develops case plans, provides crisis intervention, links youth to resources, supervises interns, and more. Prior to joining PHA, Chrissie served as a Personal Services Coordinator for the Vietnamese Community of Orange County and an Educational Case Manager Intern for the Orange County Department of Education, Foster Youth Services. She holds an M.S.W. with a Pupil Personnel Services Credential from the University of Southern California and a B.A. in Human Development with a minor in Human Resources from California State University, Long Beach.

Guadalupe Contreras

District Manager, Newport-Mesa

Guadalupe (Lupita) joined Project Hope Alliance as a Case Manager in February 2020. Her background includes working with youth and families. Lupita attended California State University, Fullerton, where she studied Broadcast Journalism and Sociology. Being the first to attend college in her family, she understood mentoring programs’ importance to students. She worked directly with first-generation high-school students by providing academic and mentor support. While there, she realized many layers involved in supporting a student. She is proud that Project Hope Alliance assesses and supports the multiple layers it takes to help students succeed. **Hablo Espanol**

Victor Lugo

District Manager, Santa Ana

Victor joined Project Hope Alliance in the summer of 2021 as a Case Manager. He graduated from Cal State Fullerton with a major in sociology. He is currently attending Azusa Pacific University, working on his Master’s degree in Social Work. Prior to PHA, Victor worked at the Priority Center, providing in-home support services to low-income families in Orange County. Working with children from different backgrounds has helped him understand early intervention’s importance in achieving academic and personal success. He chooses to work with at-risk youth because he believes every child should have an equal opportunity to succeed. **Hablo Espanol**

Jocelyn Balderrama

District Manager, Huntington Beach

Jocelyn joined Project Hope Alliance in September 2022. Prior to PHA, Jocelyn worked as a Behavioral Therapist to help improve the lives of youth with developmental disabilities and their families. Jocelyn understands the importance of supporting and advocating for youth so they can overcome any disparities or barriers they may face. Jocelyn is dedicated to being a resource and advocate for at-risk youth. She believes every child deserves an equal opportunity to have their basic needs met, focusing on their education and social and mental well-being. **Hablo Espanol**

Celso Fuentes

District Manager, Scholarship Prep

Celso has worked in youth development for ten years and has spent the last ten years working towards uplifting his community. This journey has taught him, “What’s possible”?” not, “What’s’wrong?”. Celso had worked alongside many instrumental people who believed in him when he didn’t believe in himself. With that spark, he has been fortunate to work alongside at-promise youth, workforce development, students with disabilities, and substance use prevention. He obtained his B.S. from the California State University of Fullerton in Human Services. In his free time, he enjoys spending hours at the gym, eating at In-N-Out, and hanging out with family and friends. **Hablo Espanol**

Michelle Lanternier, MA

Manager of Shelter Services

Michelle Lanternier joined Project Hope Alliance (PHA) in March of 2023 as Manager of Shelter Services. Prior to joining PHA, Michelle worked in a variety of settings supporting youth, including those on juvenile probation, foster youth in a group home and in a school as a behavior interventionist for students who have services through IEPs. Michelle’s background is based primarily around trauma-informed care (TIC), de-escalation techniques, youth self-empowerment and mediation and advocacy. Michelle has a BA in Linguistics with a Spanish minor and an MA in Applied Linguistics from California State University, Fullerton, and is currently working on a second MA in Marriage and Family Therapy from Alliant International University.

Fatiha Small

Case Manager

Fatiha (Tia) joined Project Hope Alliance in January 2017 as an Operations Assistant and has since advanced to Program Coordinator. In her role, she serves as the first point of contact for many families enrolling in PHA’s programs, providing phenomenal support and service to every individual who walks through the organization’s doors. Fatiha also supports the day-to-day functions of all programs, including front office support, resource database development, food pantry maintenance, program screenings, procurement of extracurricular activities for children and youth, and facilitation of financial assistance requests and referrals for families. Prior to joining PHA, she served as a Community Leader Liaison for the City of Irvine. Fatiha holds a B.A. in Business Administration from California State University, Fullerton.

Kimberly Garrido

Case Manager

Kimberly joined Project Hope Alliance (PHA) in the summer of 2021 as a Case Manager. Kimberly graduated from the University of California, Irvine, where she studied psychology and social development. Prior to PHA, she was an ABA therapist, working with children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Kimberly comes from a single-parent household and relates to many of the barriers that PHA parents, children, and families can face when attempting to pursue their education. Kimberly loves being able to help children grow to their highest potential and being able to share that success with them and their families. **Hablo Espanol**

Kirya Valle

Case Manager

Kirya joined PHA as a case manager Fall of 2021. Kirya graduated from the California State University of Long Beach with a B.A. in psychology. Before working at PHA, Kirya worked at a mental health facility working with adults going through a mental health crisis and learning to practice independent living skills. Kirya enjoys working with the youth and being in a position to build up and encourage them and their passions. **Hablo Espanol**

Jocelyn Montiel

Case Manager

Jocelyn joined Project Hope Alliance in the winter of 2022. Prior to joining PHA, she worked with at-risk youth in a group home setting. Jocelyn brings excellent skills in crisis intervention, de-escalation, and behavioral intervention to PHA’s team.   Jocelyn is working on her Masters in Social Work and looks forward to creating real change for students experiencing homelessness. **Hablo Espanol**

Nidia Pravongviengkham M.A.

Case Manager

Nidia joined Project Hope Alliance (PHA) in the winter of 2022 as a Case Manager. She graduated from Mount St. Mary’s University with a double major in Business Administration and Sociology. She holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology with a concentration in Marriage and Family Therapy. Prior to PHA, Nidia worked with foster care youth as an investigator for minors’ counsel at the juvenile dependency courts and as a social worker in a foster care agency. Nidia enjoys field and school-based assignments that allow her to interact and directly advocate for youth and families in the community. **Hablo Espanol**

Daniel Hongo

Case Manager

Daniel joined Project Hope Alliance in the spring of 2022 as a Case Manager. Daniel graduated from the California State University of Fullerton, where he studied psychology. Prior to Project Hope Alliance, he was a Mental Health Unit Assistant at CHOC Children’s Hospital and a Behavior Interventionist, working with children with an autism spectrum disorder. He has worked collaboratively with parents and colleagues to reduce the likelihood of harmful behaviors in children that pose dangers to themselves and/or others and reinforce safe and productive behaviors. Daniel loves to work with the youth in ways that empower them to overcome any challenges and succeed. 

Michael Puente

Case Manager

Catherine Balderrama

Case Manager

Catherine joined Project Hope Alliance (PHA) in the Summer of 2022 as a Case Manager. She graduated from San Diego State University with a Child and Family Development major. She is currently attending the Boston University graduate program and working towards a Master’s degree in Social Work. Before PHA, Catherine was a Social Worker at a Skilled Nursing Facility as an advocate and resource to the elder population. Catherine is excited to be able to show our youth the possibilities there are to succeed, aspire, and grow. With the support from the PHA team, Catherine has the opportunity to give families and youth hope for a better tomorrow. **Hablo Espanol**

Katherine Montiel

Case Manager

Katherine joined Project Hope Alliance in the fall of 2022. She attended California State University, Fullerton and graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Prior to PHA, Katherine worked as a Behavior Interventionist, working with children and young adults on the spectrum. Katherine enjoys working with youth and providing them with different resources to ensure their success. **Hablo Espanol**

Mauricio Gonzalez

Case Manager

Mauricio graduated from California State University, Fullerton with a B.S. in Human Services (Go Titans!). He has worked with youth and Mental health services for about 6 years now and he truly loves this rewarding field. Mauricio believes that every student deserves to be presented with great opportunities in life. Every student deserves a chance to reach their goals and dreams despite any obstacles or hardships that they may be facing. “Helping prepare students to become future leaders by acknowledging their strengths is very important to him and is something he holds dear. He hopes to inspire the communities he helps serve and to empower the youth that may be experiencing obstacles or challenges in their lives. **Hablo Espanol**

Natalie Garcia

Case Manager

Natalie joined Project Hope Alliance as a case manager Summer of 2023. Before her journey as a case manager, she first served as an intern with our organization. She fell in love with the community, and wanted to be a part of the growth of PHA. Natalie graduated from Vanguard University with a B.A in Sociology. She aspires to continue her education in the field of sociology to eventually pursue a career in clinical social work. Natalie is looking forward to being a part of the children’s success and personal growth!

Jennifer Matsuda

Manager of Program Impact

Jennifer Matsuda is excited to serve Project Hope Alliance (PHA) as their Manager of Program Impact. She will oversee and lead the measurement strategy for PHA. She joined PHA as Manager of Development and Communication in 2019.  Jennifer is a  highly successful relationship builder and professional communicator with ten years of experience in the nonprofit sector. Jennifer has led communication efforts and delivery with nonprofit boards, donors, and public officials. In addition, Jennifer enjoys creating and aligning systems for streamlining effectiveness and fostering teamwork to support PHA’s mission. She holds a B.A. in Psychology and Sociology from Notre Dame de Namur University.

John Eumurian

Foundation Relations Manager

John Eumurian joined Project Hope Alliance (PHA) as Foundation Relations Manager. John is an experienced grant writer with 19 years as both a proposal writer for the for-profit sector and a grant writer for the nonprofit sector, understanding the financial workings of both the corporate and nonprofit arenas. He brings local connections and research expertise to the position and highly professional grant writing, research, and report writing experience. He has provided services in Orange County, Los Angeles, CA, and international clients in Croatia, Tanzania, and Mozambique. Today, he oversees all aspects of foundational fund development. He is tasked with increasing PHA’s family of foundation funders and building a robust foundational system to support the program and overall organizational growth.

Annie Weir, J.D

Grants & Development Coordinator

Annie joined Project Hope Alliance in 2014 as the Director of Operations. She left in 2019 to raise her growing family and consult for other nonprofits’ strategic plans. She returned to PHA in February 2022 to support the grant writing and development team. Prior to joining Project Hope Alliance, Annie worked as a lawyer. Annie was excited to return to PHA because she wholeheartedly believed in the mission and was thrilled to pick up where she left off, making a difference for students experiencing homelessness. 

Kathy Keife

Manager of Finance & Administration

Kathy joined Project Hope Alliance (PHA) in July 2021. Kathy has over 25 years of experience in all aspects of the accounting process. Prior to joining PHA, she was an Accounting Manager for the OC Fair & Event Center. She is accomplished in all aspects of bookkeeping and business. Outside work, Kathy is a proud mom to three sons and nine grandchildren! In addition, Kathy is involved in her community as a Red Cross volunteer and trained as a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) with the fire department. Kathy says: “I feel truly blessed to have a position with a company that shares my beliefs and with such a wonderful purpose!”

Allen Burnett, MTS

Community Engagement Coordinator

Allen Burnett joined the development team at PHA in the fall of 2022.  He is a graduate of U.C. Santa Cruz and holds an M.A. in Theology from Vanguard University.  Allen has always loved working with kids and has previously owned and operated childcare facilities that served working families at the poverty line. Before coming on board at PHA, he served as a youth minister at Second Baptist Church of Santa Ana, where he still attends with his wife and daughters and continues to volunteer.  Allen is honored to be a member of #teamkid and stands ready to do whatever it takes to end the cycle of homelessness one child at a time and building a stronger community for all.

Erika Rios

Development Coordinator

Erika joined Project Hope Alliance as a Development Coordinator in the Fall of 2022. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Communications with an emphasis in Public Relations from California State University, Fullerton. Before PHA, Erika worked in social media management and digital marketing in the mobile gaming industry. With a passion for volunteering and marketing, she turned her focus to nonprofit work. As a member of the Development Team, she is excited to work alongside the entire PHA team on a mission to end the cycle of homelessness, one child at a time!