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Jesus Center Manager Jesus is from the Dominican Republic, living in Tampa since 2010, the only boy in a family of 6. He's been working in the family business since an early age. A hotelier by trade with a Bachelor Degree in Hotel Management and a Master in Tourism and Hotel Administration, with ample experience in the industry. Love to ride bikes, hiking and watch movies; with a new passion to give back to the community. Jesus is bilingual and fluent in the Spanish language Luis Intake and Referral Specialist Luis was born in Lima, Peru, and moved to the U.S. at the age of seven. He is passionate about contributing to his community and helping others whenever he can. He also likes to travel and hopes to see the world and learn from many different cultures. He likes to watch movies and read dystopian novels. His favorite season is fall and his favorite holiday is Halloween! Yo hablo español! Chynna Family Specialist I moved to Florida last year from New York, I am a mother to the most beautiful, smart, and ambitious 6-year-old girl. My goal is to make a difference one family at a time, coming from a state where I've seen no change in the way a community comes together to help each other, I wanted to be that change and make a difference in a state I now call home. My definition of being better is to do better and I plan to do better by strengthening ties between resource centers and families in need. A hug a day keeps the heartache away! Johanna Support Specialist Johana, was born in Colombia, she is mother of two children and moved to this country 5 years ago. Her BA is on Administration and Human Resources. Her mission is to help Hispanic people and migrants to feel part of this society. Johana like manual arts, painting, decoration, and have always a smile and a good attitude. Coming Soon Family Specialist (Part-Time)

Marisa Center Manager Dr. Marisa Martinez has over 20 years of experience in K-12 education. Marisa is from Chicago and lives in the Tampa area with her family.She earned a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Chicago State University, a Master's in Administration & Supervision from Loyola University and an undergraduate degree in Secondary English from DePaul University. Her various roles as a high school English teacher, school counselor and administrator have prepared her well for the role of Early Childhood Service Coordinator. Marisa enjoys serving the community, spending time with her family and traveling. ¡Yo hablo español! Aysun Support Specialist Aysun was born in Gaziantep, Turkey - a beautiful city where she desired even as a child to help others. She went to Gaziantep University of Turkey and graduated with an AA Degre in Business Management. Soon after in 2011 she moved to Tampa, Florida. She has 3 beautiful kids. Currently she is studying for a BA degree at Islamic University of Minnesota. Her goal is to be able to help others achieve their goals and help them find resources to succeed. Ben Türkçe konuşuyorum! Amanda Family Specialist Iris Intake and Referral Specialist Katrina Family Support - Part Time

Tyheshia Director Prior to joining Lutheran Services as the Director of the Children’s Board Family Resource Center, Tyheshia worked as an Executive Director for a small non-profit in Denton, TX. Their mission was to provide families with housing services, financial support, and case management they need to break the chains of generational poverty on their road to self-sufficiency. During her entire 20-year human services career she has focused on providing services that impart individuals with the tools they need to be successful and self-sufficient. Her commitment to helping others is illustrated by her work history. Tyheshia is an 8-year Veteran of the United States Navy. She served as an Operations Specialist responsible for gathering, processing, and disseminating information in the Combat information Center. Later she worked to assist fellow Veterans transition to civilian life. Tyheshia is a firm believer in collaboration and believes that no one organization or individual can end anything anywhere; success can only be achieved when you come together as a community and work cooperatively towards the common goal. Tyheshia’s a Georgia Peach that’s married to someone from the Frozen Tundra (Wisconsin). They have 3 children and a cat all born in different states: Washington State, Florida, Wisconsin, and Texas (Oreo the Cat). Although Tyheshia is not from Tampa, her Tampa Bay roots run deep. Tyheshia’s family is from a small community started by migrant workers and sharecroppers at the very tip of Manatee County on called Rubonia. The descendants of those individuals still live there to this day. If you ever you find yourself at the South County Center ask me about: JAPAN! Parisa Operations Manager Parisa is Iranian and speaks Farsi, Spanish and English. She has worked in multiple countries with many cultures and societies. Parisa's experience includes: Fifteen years as a teacher, ten years translating, and seven years at Family Resource Organization in Venezuela. ¡Yo hablo español! من فارسی صحبت میکنم! Lynique Early Childhood Service Coordinator Supervisor Lynique relocated from Maryland to Florida to join the CBFRC Team. Lynique possess a Bachelor of Science Degree in Human Services, with a concentration in Child and Family studies and a Master of Science degree in Executive Leadership & Change with a concentration in leadership within nonprofit organizations. She describes herself to be a highly motivated, compassionate individual with over 20 years' experience working with children and families and 15 years of supervision. Solymar Programming Manager Solymar is originally from San Juan, Puerto Rico. She is a dedicate theater educator with 15 years of experience inspiring students through the transformative power of the performing arts. She is also a Trainer of the Standard of Quality of the National Family Support Network. Prior to join our team she worked with our funder, the Children's Board as a Public Relations Outreach. Her goal for our centers it's to create quality programs to support the success of all children and families in Hillsborough County. ¡Yo hablo español!

Nadine Center Manager Nadine was born and raised in Lebanon. She is a Pharmacist, graduated from the Lebanese University. She recently moved with her family to the United States. Nadine joined the CBFRC Brandon family after being members with her family for months. Her family had joyful moments and big help from the center, which made her wanted to join them to spread joy and support, too. Her boys are everything for her! She recently discovered a new passion for craft works and decorating items, so when she has free time, you can find her painting and decorating items. Je parle le français و اتكلم العربية ايضا Ingrid Intake and Referral Specialist Ingrid Arias Cardulis born in Cuba, in the city of Havana. She has a bachelor as Licensed in Education, on the specialty of Spain Language and literature at the University of Cienfuegos, and a Master degree in Education. She loves teaching, and believes in the power of the words, and the education. Had experience in Middle school and High school, but mostly in High Education. On the last 23 years she has worked in the Spanish Department at the University of Cienfuegos. Yo hablo Espaṅol! Amanda Family Specialist Monica Support Specialist Coming Soon! Family Specialist (Part-Time) My name is Monica, I was born in Colombia. I am a mother of two children. I lived in New Jersey where I started working with the community at my local church. I have been a Florida resident for 6 years now and I really enjoy the community and the interaction with people. In my free time I enjoy spending time with my family and traveling. I am very excited for this opportunity and looking forward to work with the team and provide an excellent service to the community.

Yenny Center Manager Yenny was born in Colombia, but moved to Seville, Spain after graduating from High School. While in Spain, she studied Social Integration and Sociology. She then moved to the U.S. and lived in Portland, Oregon and Chicago; later relocating to Tampa. As a Florida resident, Yenny has worked in non-profit organizations, servicing families in different Hillsborough County communities. Yenny believes that her service to a family begins by dedicating full attention to listen to them and identify their needs. She endeavors to provide the families all the assistance they need and qualify for. Yenny always shows a smiling face, as she believes this transmits empathy. It is very rewarding when the assisted families respond to her services, also with a smile :) . ¡Yo hablo español! Coming Soon Intake and Referral Specialist Leonila is native to La Ceiba, Honduras. She speaks fluent Garifuna, Spanish, and English. Leonila started her work in the educational system in 1988 and spent several years working as a school principal in Honduras. Once she and her family moved to the United States she continued her career with a focus in childcare education. Leonila believes that life is a learning process and her greatest passion is to serve children and families. ¡Yo hablo español y Garifuna! Jacqueline Support Specialist Jaqueline was born in New York and moved to Ponce, Puerto Rico when she was 5 years old. She have a Bachelor Degree in Social Work and is currently completing her Master Degree. Since 3rd grade, Jaqueline have participate in missionary trips to Dominican Republic, Haiti and Venezuela helping families with needs. Her professional goals are to serve the families of the Hillsborough County and write a book about her work experiences. " Yo hablo español" Tiffany Family Specialist (Part-Time) My name is Tiffany, I was born here in Tampa. I am a mother of three and I have been a member with the Childrens Board family resource center for more than 5 years. My family and i have been able to get valuable information and opportunities as members. Now to have the chance to help other families as a support specialist is a proud 360 moment. As a Tampanian It is a pleasure to be able to help other people living here to improve their quality of life. I am excited for the chance to meet more of our community members and assist them in meeting their needs. Mario Family Specialist

Joai Center Manager Joai Broughton is a dynamic community leader, ordained pastor, certified Christian Mental Health Coach, and author with a passion for helping others heal, grow, and thrive. Originally from New Jersey, Joai now lives in Plant City, Florida, where she actively serves through outreach initiatives, empowerment events, and faith-based programming. She holds a bachelor's degree in business administration management and brings a strong professional background to her current role. Prior to joining the Children’s Board Family Resource Center, Joai served as the president of a software company and worked in a major banking institution for over 15 years. Her combined experience in corporate leadership and ministry has equipped her with a unique blend of strategic insight and spiritual care. Joai is a wife, mother, and proud new Gigi. She enjoys serving her community, spending time with her family, and relaxing with her favorite creative pastime—coloring. Mayra Intake and Referral Specialist Mayra was born in the Dominican Republic and emigrated to the United States (New York) as a teenager. She has been a Florida resident since 2005. She studied Business Administration at Pace University, NY and has vast experience in public relations, as she has worked in International Trade, Banking and Finance, Tour Operator, Hospitality and Tourism. Mayra is a mom of 3 and grandma of 9. Although she retired early, she has kept busy helping with the younger grandkids and working part time. It was precisely while visiting one of the CBFRC, for an activity with a grandchild, that she remembered her original passion - to help those in need. During her last 2 years in High School, she worked P/T at a Community Resources Agency, connecting Spanish speaking families to public services. During her Freshman college year, she worked at the New York City Mayor's Office, translating the literature that was distributed to the Hispanic community agencies, within the the five boroughs. ¡Yo hablo español! Darrie Family Specialist Darrie was born on the Bay Island of Roatan, off the coast of Honduras Central America. She moved with her family to the main land of Honduras at the age of 14, where she studied Short hand typing secretary and Bachelor's degree in science and literature. Darrie has been working in the past as a customer service representative for over 16 years. She enjoys helping people and making them feel at home with her warm welcoming smile. She moved to Florida in 2021, and joined the CBFRC team where she is continuing to develop her passion of helping the community. She is fluent in English and Spanish Coming Soon Support Specialist Maria Family Specialist (Part-Time)

Mariana Support Specialist Mariana Chiza is Venezuelan, she has lived in the United States for 7 years. She has a degree in Human Resources and Tourism Business Administration, Announcer and Life Coach from the Universidad Iberoamericana de Liderazgo in Miami. For 3 years he has had a podcast "It's About Attitude" (with dozens of episodes in different apps), focusing on issues of self-esteem, self-improvement, motivation and he does it as a personal log of challenges he has had to live. Mariana Chiza is a writer, with 2 books published on Amazon in Spanish: "Surviving Three Divorces", and "Mujeres Admirables", the latter written with 24 women. She is also a co-author of the book "Mujeres Dream Boss", she is currently writing #2 of "Mujeres Admirables Historias de Exito" with 16 women, has been invited to write in the book "TOP 25 Mujeres Dream Boss". She is always willing to help and collaborate, that is her life purpose. Mariana has 3 beautiful children, two granddaughters and is happily married. ¡Yo hablo español! Coming Soon Family Specialist (Part-Time) Coming Soon Center Manager Ana Intake and Referral Specialist Ana Maria Vera Davidson is originally from Peru and attended University in Peru, where she obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Education. She started her career as a science teacher and worked in that field for over 10 years. Ana moved to Tampa in 2015 and decided to further her education and now attends Hillsborough Community College. Ana started as an intern for the Family Resource Center, she fell and love and soon after became an employee. When asked about working at the Resource Centers Ana said, "I love working at the CBFRC because I believe that one person can make a huge difference in someone's life. When we treat people with love and patience, nothing is impossible". Ana's hobbies include walking and reading. She loves animals and has two small dogs Misty and Mickey. ¡Yo hablo español! Yesenia Family Specialist Yesenia Chestaro was born in the city of Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, where she began her studies at the Autonomous University of Santiago in a tourism business administration career. She has always liked working directly with people, helping and providing services. Yesenia worked for 5 years in the BAHIA PRINCIPE hotel chain, she got married and moved to the United States in 2017. She has always been fascinated by the idea of studying, working and helping people in the healthcare area. She considers herself a self-capable person with a great desire to grow both professionally and personally. She is a faithful believer that with effort and dedication, you can achieve any goals in life. ¡Yo hablo español!