Unsung Heroes of the Year

Academic Youth Development Coordinator,
Thomas House Family Shelter

Brooklynn Allen

Three words to describe Brooklynn: Decisive, Prospective, Resilient 

Brooklynn Allen shines as an Unsung Hero with a tough yet kindhearted resolve, providing a safe haven where vulnerable children can thrive. Through a program offering homework assistance, tutoring, computer access, enrichment activities, counseling, mentoring, and more, she not only supports academic growth but also fosters an emotionally secure environment. 

She trains volunteers and interns to create spaces where each child feels seen and heard. Her unwavering dedication goes beyond assignments and lessons—building confidence, leadership, and resilience in youth who need it most, quietly transforming lives every day.

Transitional Care Manager,
Laura’s House

Elizabeth Arreola

Three words to describe Elizabeth: Adaptability, Dedication, Teamwork

Elizabeth Arreola exemplifies what it means to be an Unsung Hero. She manages Laura’s House Transitional Living Program and Case Management Program at non-residential sites, and has also stepped in to oversee the Emergency Shelter Program while a colleague is on leave. Balancing these critical responsibilities with skill and grace, Elizabeth ensures programs run smoothly while clients receive the highest level of care and support. 

She is known as the ultimate team player—supporting colleagues, strengthening programs, and creating stability for survivors of domestic violence. Even while managing so much, Elizabeth is pursuing her Master’s degree, a testament to her drive and commitment to growth. Though she never seeks recognition, her impact is felt across Laura’s House every day, making her a true Unsung Hero.

Family Resource Center Coordinator,
Friendly Center

Lizbeth Bugarin

Three words to describe Lizbeth: Advocate, Dedication, Leadership 

Friendly Center is proud to recognize Lizbeth Bugarin as an Unsung Hero for her extraordinary leadership and compassion in managing a $1 million Emergency Rental Assistance program funded by Supervisor Doug Chaffee, District 4. In just one year, she helped more than 130 families and individuals on the brink of eviction and homelessness, guiding each case with empathy, diligence, and professionalism. 

Her role extended far beyond coordination. She worked hand-in-hand with clients, facilitated team trainings, conducted reporting and surveys, collaborated with landlords, and led orientations and meetings to ensure no detail was overlooked. She also seamlessly connected participants to Friendly Center’s wraparound services, addressing not only their housing crisis but also their broader needs for stability and opportunity. 

Her dedication, compassionate advocacy, and exceptional leadership embody the very definition of an Unsung Hero—someone who quietly makes a powerful impact where it matters most.

Community Engagement Manager,
Project Hope Alliance

Allen Burnett

Three words to describe Allen: Collaboration, Compassion, Leadership 

Allen Burnett has transformed Project Hope Alliance’s ability to meet the urgent needs of children and families experiencing homelessness. In his three years as Community Engagement Manager, he has inspired community members to volunteer, support donation drives, and strengthen partnerships with faith groups, businesses, and service organizations. 

Because of Allen’s dedication, more than 400 children and their families, totaling over 1,100 lives each year, have access to food, hygiene supplies, seasonal celebrations, and other vital resources that provide dignity and hope during difficult times. He approaches every effort with joy, love, and a collaborative spirit, knowing that meaningful change happens together. Allen’s leadership and heart make him a true Unsung Hero.

Executive Director,
Unidos South OC

Heather Chapman

Three words to describe Heather: Advocacy, Dedication, Leadership 

Heather Chapman is the catalyst of Unidos South OC’s work, though she prefers to remain behind the scenes. With a deep commitment to co-creation alongside residents, she believes true change comes from empowering those most impacted by housing challenges to lead the solutions. 

Heather is also one of the community’s strongest advocates, regularly meeting with city staff, school trustees, and local organizations to ensure resident voices are heard and their needs addressed. She sees the community as an asset and uplifts individuals by mentoring, encouraging, and guiding them into leadership. 

Her humility, heart, and unwavering dedication have moved the organization’s work forward in profound ways. Heather embodies what it means to be an Unsung Hero— someone who makes a lasting impact while putting others first.

Program Manager,
Encompass Housing

Gilbert Gomez

Three words to describe Gilbert: Compassion, Leadership, Teamwork 

Gilbert Gomez is the heart and steady anchor of the team at Encompass Housing. Day after day, he quietly goes above and beyond, whether solving urgent client needs, lending his expertise to complex housing challenges, or supporting teammates with patience, kindness, and humor. He never seeks recognition, but his impact is seen in every client who achieves housing stability.

Gilbert leads by example, setting a high standard of integrity, accountability, and dedication. He consistently anticipates needs before they arise and guides others with clarity—empowering his team to do their best work. Always the first to step in when someone needs help, Gilbert fosters trust and collaboration, ensuring no one feels alone in the work. At the heart of it all is his compassion; he treats every individual with dignity and respect, often going above and beyond to ensure people feel seen, heard, and supported during their most challenging moments.

His humility, compassion, and steady leadership make him an indispensable part of the Encompass Housing team.

Program Supervisor,
City Net

Cheree Goodfield

Three words to describe Cheree: Dedication, Empathy, Perseverance 

Cheree Goodfield demonstrates professionalism, resilience, and compassion in every aspect of her work. Deeply committed to City Net’s mission, she shows up for clients with empathy and dedication, always keeping their needs at the center. 

Cheree’s steady leadership is evident in the way she navigates challenges with grace while uplifting both her team and the people she serves. She consistently prioritizes the well-being of others, ensures that each client feels seen and supported, and creates meaningful connections built on trust and kindness. 

Her quiet strength, integrity, and unwavering presence make her a powerful example of service. Cheree truly embodies what it means to be an Unsung Hero.

Community Engagement Manager,
WISEPlace

Eliz Hendershot

Three words to describe Eliz: Energy, Pride, Spirit 

Eliz Hendershot is always eager to contribute as a dedicated team player at WISEPlace. She brings great energy and a positive attitude to every interaction, supporting volunteers, staff, and clients alike. 

Her pride in her work and her commitment to representing WISEPlace shine through in everything she does. With a collaborative spirit and a fun, uplifting approach, Eliz helps foster an environment where people feel connected, valued, and inspired. 

Her enthusiasm and authenticity leave a lasting mark on the WISEPlace community, making her a true Unsung Hero.

Program Director,
Homeless Intervention Services of Orange County (HIS-OC)

Alfa Hernandez

Three words to describe Alfa: Commitment, Compassion, Leadership 

Alfa Hernandez is the embodiment of an Unsung Hero at HIS-OC. With unwavering dedication and compassion, she leads programs with a hands-on commitment that ensures every client receives the care, respect, and support they deserve. She coordinates services, mentors staff, solves challenges, and advocates tirelessly for the needs of vulnerable populations—all without seeking recognition. 

Her leadership blends empathy with accountability, creating a culture where both clients and team members can thrive. Alfa guides her team with calm determination, bringing people together and inspiring them to work toward shared goals. Her compassion ensures that every client feels seen, heard, and valued, while her steady presence keeps programs running smoothly and effectively. 

Alfa’s commitment, leadership, and compassion make her a lifeline at HIS-OC, and her impact continues to shape lives across the community.

Case Manager,
Families Forward

Cristina Hernandez

Three words to describe Cristina: Adaptability, Commitment, Compassion 

Cristina Hernandez is recognized by Families Forward as an Unsung Hero for her unwavering dedication to the families she serves. She consistently goes above and beyond, approaching every challenge with resilience and a deep passion for uplifting the community, especially in times of need and uncertainty. 

Her commitment is reflected not only in her daily work but also in her ongoing effort to learn and share knowledge. This adaptability allows her to respond with flexibility and creativity, ensuring families receive thoughtful solutions even in the most difficult circumstances. Guided by compassion, Cristina creates a safe and supportive environment where people feel seen, heard, and empowered to face hardships with dignity. 

Cristina’s quiet strength and positive influence resonate across Families Forward, making a lasting difference in the lives of those she serves.

Housing Navigator,
Alianza Translatinx

Paola Hernandez

Three words to describe Paola: Leadership, Resilience, Teamwork 

Paola Hernandez is Alianza Translatinx’s Unsung Hero for her unwavering commitment to supporting TGI community members during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. As Housing Navigator, she ensures people facing homelessness or housing instability feel seen, respected, and cared for. 

Paola goes beyond connecting clients to shelter, rental assistance, and long-term housing solutions. She offers encouragement, dignity, and hope while collaborating with colleagues, community partners, and service providers to deliver wraparound support. Her resilience and creativity shine when resources are limited, often leading to innovative solutions. 

Quietly and consistently, Paola makes a life-changing impact without seeking recognition. She embodies the true spirit of an Unsung Hero.

Director of Leadership Development,
Resilience OC

Roberto Herrera

Three words to describe Roberto: Community Building, Integrity, Passion

Roberto Herrera is Resilience OC’s Unsung Hero for their unwavering dedication, brilliance, and powerful leadership in the fight for immigrant and tenant justice. Since joining the organization, Roberto has played a pivotal role in securing policy and community victories that have strengthened the rights and voices of immigrant communities across Orange County. 

Most recently, Roberto helped launch Costa Mesa Unidos, an organizing space that empowers tenants and residents to advocate for change in their own neighborhoods. They work tirelessly with humility and purpose, building grassroots power and creating lasting impact. 

Roberto is a true Unsung Hero—someone whose leadership and commitment continue to inspire a stronger, more just Orange County.

Housing Specialist II,
Santa Ana Housing Authority

Monique Lorenzana

Three words to describe Monique: Compassion, Humility, Resilience 

The Santa Ana Housing Authority recognizes Monique Lorenzana as an Unsung Hero for her dedication and compassion, which has made a meaningful difference in the lives of unhoused families. Over the years, she has risen through the ranks by consistently demonstrating reliability, initiative, and a genuine commitment to serving others. 

Most recently, Monique spearheaded a program to provide essential household items to families facing hardship. Despite a tight timeline, she surveyed families to assess needs, coordinated with vendors, and ensured timely delivery of goods. She personally reached out to each family to make sure they were informed and able to request the items most important to them. 

Monique’s compassionate approach and attention to detail reflect her deep care for the families she supports. Her efforts not only provided critical resources but also restored hope and dignity during difficult times. The Santa Ana Housing Authority is fortunate to have Monique as part of its team, where her dedication continues to make a lasting impact.

Case Manager,
American Family Housing

Steffani Maletta

Three words to describe Steffani: Attitude, Caring, Understanding 

Steffani Maletta always puts clients first in her work as a Case Manager at American Family Housing. She supports more than 30 people each month, helping them secure and sustain housing, medical care, benefits, and other essential needs. 

Steffani balances compassion for clients with the important documentation required to keep services running smoothly. She is a model case manager whose caring nature and steady presence make a lasting difference in the lives of those she serves. For these reasons, American Family Housing is proud to recognize Steffani as an Unsung Hero.

Manager of CSS Housing and Case Management,
Illumination Health + Home

Jesenya Marcial

Three words to describe Jesenya: Adaptability, Focus, Mentorship 

Jesenya Marcial’s leadership at the Carnegie Navigation Center has empowered staff to perform at their best, ensuring that clients receive quality care on their journey to housing. She is always willing to learn new skills and take on new responsibilities that strengthen the programs she oversees. 

Her servant leadership, accountability, and steady presence make her an Unsung Hero who uplifts both her colleagues and the people she serves.

VA Supervisory Social Worker, CES & Homeless Outreach,
VA Long Beach Healthcare System

Melanie Martins

Three words to describe Melanie: Creativity, Leadership, Teamwork 

The VA Long Beach Healthcare System recognizes Melanie Martins as an Unsung Hero for her exceptional dedication to supporting Veterans experiencing homelessness. As Homeless Outreach Supervisor, she has coordinated large-scale Surge events and Stand Downs, ensuring Veterans received critical services and support. She also played a pivotal role in implementing the Homeless Management Information System (HMIS), strengthening coordination of services across the community. 

Melanie’s leadership extends well beyond program management. She represents VA Long Beach on national calls and conferences, raising the profile of local programs, and contributes her expertise across numerous committees and boards, including the OC Veterans & Military Families Collaborative and the Long Beach Point-in-Time Count. Her teamwork shines in her ability to bring diverse partners together, while her creativity drives innovative solutions to outreach and service delivery. 

Through her compassion, persistence, and vision, Melanie has made a profound difference in the lives of Veterans and in the strength of the programs that support them. Her impact is a testament to what it means to be an Unsung Hero.

Physician,
Korean Community Services Health Center

Dr. Kun Chhai Meas

Three words to describe Dr. Chhai: Knowledge, Leadership, Passion 

Dr. Kun Chhai Meas leads primary care services at the Buena Park Navigation Center through Korean Community Services (KCS), overseeing a team of nurse practitioners, care managers, and support staff who provide comprehensive medical, psychiatric, therapeutic, and dental care for residents of the North Orange County shelter run by Mercy House. In addition to his work at the center, he brings deep experience in street medicine, meeting people where they are to address urgent health needs. 

He approaches every patient with a compassionate understanding of the medical challenges faced by those experiencing homelessness, ensuring they receive care with dignity and respect. His knowledge, leadership, and passion make him an Unsung Hero whose impact extends throughout the community.

Community Engagement & Marketing Manager,
HomeAid Orange County | Los Angeles

Amy Moylan

Three words to describe Amy: Collaborative, Inspirational, Teamwork 

HomeAid Orange County | Los Angeles recognizes Amy Moylan as an Unsung Hero for her outstanding leadership in community outreach and engagement. She takes connection to the next level, leading activities that not only benefit families and individuals experiencing homelessness but also provide donors and volunteers with meaningful opportunities to get involved. 

Amy is always looking for new ways to connect groups to HomeAid, educate the community on the causes of homelessness, and share solutions with an upbeat and inspiring attitude. Her collaborative spirit and passion for service strengthen both the organization and the broader community she serves.

Career & Employment Services Coordinator,
Access California Services

Uyn Joo Namkung

Three words to describe Uyn Jo: Creativity, Leadership, Teamwork 

At Access California Services, Uyn Joo Namkung is recognized as an Unsung Hero for the life-changing impact she has on clients seeking stability through employment. She goes above and beyond to help vulnerable, unemployed, and underemployed newcomers, individuals experiencing homelessness, and those at risk of losing their housing reclaim their independence through meaningful work. 

Whether guiding clients through vocational training programs, helping them get foreign degrees evaluated, registering them for credential-boosting classes, or building partnerships with local employers, Uyn Joo approaches every task with persistence, compassion, and a deep belief in her clients’ potential. Her creativity shines in tailoring strategies to each person’s unique background, while her leadership identifies gaps in employment support and creates pathways toward sustainable careers. She collaborates seamlessly with colleagues, community partners, and employers to provide wraparound support that extends beyond job placement, ensuring people have the tools and confidence to succeed. 

Through her dedication, Uyn Joo has helped transform barriers into opportunities, restoring dignity and hope for those facing some of life’s hardest challenges.

Program Specialist,
PATH

Steven Nguyen

Three words to describe Steven: Advocacy, Collaboration, Creativity 

PATH recognizes Steven Nguyen as an Unsung Hero for his dedication, attention to detail, and strong commitment to serving both clients and colleagues. As Program Specialist on the CalAIM team, he takes great pride in providing timely and efficient administrative support, ensuring that services are accurately billed and properly documented each month. His careful stewardship allows the program to run smoothly and effectively. 

Steven’s advocacy ensures clients receive critical financial assistance to prevent homelessness, while his collaboration with case managers and leadership strengthens the team’s overall impact. Known for his creativity, he is always looking for solutions, developing more efficient processes, and finding better ways to support people in their housing journey. 

Through his reliability, innovation, and advocacy, Steven makes a meaningful difference for PATH and the clients it serves every day.

Case Work Supervisor,
Share Ourselves

Israel Ortiz

Three words to describe Israel: Compassionate, Composed, Resilient 

Israel Ortiz truly embodies the mission of Share Ourselves through his humility, dedication, and deep compassion. He goes above and beyond to support others, offering both caring service and a strong voice for those who cannot speak for themselves. 

His quiet leadership and tireless service have a lasting impact on the community, making him an Unsung Hero whose work uplifts those most in need.

Case Manager,
South County Outreach

Ruby Osorio

Three words to describe Ruby: Collaboration, Leadership, Teamwork 

Ruby Osorio is South County Outreach’s Unsung Hero for her tireless dedication to families and her unwavering commitment to treating every client with dignity and compassion. As the main point of contact for the Family Solutions Collaborative, Ruby works directly with unhoused clients to connect them with critical resources and ongoing support. She creates a welcoming environment where parents and children feel safe and cared for during interviews. 

Ruby’s leadership and teamwork are evident in the way she collaborates across agencies, coordinates services, and ensures programs run smoothly. Her empathy, persistence, and quiet leadership embody what it means to be an Unsung Hero.

CEO ,
April Parker Foundation

April Parker

Three words to describe April: Compassion, Leadership, Resilience 

April Parker, known affectionately as “AP,” is the heart and driving force of the April Parker Foundation’s mission to end youth homelessness. Though she often redirects credit to her team, her leadership, sacrifice, and relentless dedication have guided the foundation through its most challenging moments. 

Over the past year, AP has gone above and beyond to serve unhoused youth. When major funding was unexpectedly withdrawn, she personally secured facilities to ensure that no young person would be left without a place to stay. When Job Corps prepared to close and dozens of youth faced displacement, she immediately opened more units to meet the urgent need. Her response to challenges is unwavering: “The obstacle is the way.” 

A disabled Army veteran and foster/adoptive mom of nine, AP works late into the night writing grants, designing community-responsive programs, and mentoring staff. She has grown the foundation to nearly 50 employees while keeping compassion, belonging, and youth empowerment at the center of its mission. 

AP leads with her heart, works with her hands, and inspires others to believe in the power of people and community. Her compassion, creativity, and resilience have changed hundreds of lives, making her a true Unsung Hero.

Domestic Violence Advocate,
Human Options

Mayra Prevo

Three words to describe Mayra: Compassion, Dedication, Resilience 

Human Options recognizes Mayra Prevo as an Unsung Hero for her tireless dedication to supporting survivors of domestic violence during their most vulnerable moments. For the past three years, she has been an invaluable part of the organization, bringing both expertise and heart to her work. 

Through her role, Mayra partners with the Santa Ana Police Department by participating in ride-alongs and responding directly to domestic violence calls. This allows her to provide trauma-informed advocacy and immediate emotional support at critical moments, when survivors often feel overwhelmed and alone. In the past year alone, she has provided outreach to 169 survivors, ensuring they felt seen, heard, and supported. 

Her compassion, empathy, and calm presence create a safe space for people to share their experiences—many of whom feel more comfortable opening up to her than anyone else. Mayra’s quiet strength and unwavering commitment exemplify what it means to be an Unsung Hero, making a profound difference in the lives of those she serves.

Director of Housing and Community Development,
City of Anaheim

Grace Ruiz-Stepter

Three words to describe Grace: Expertise, Leadership, Service 

With more than 20 years of experience, Grace Ruiz-Stepter has been a driving force in affordable housing and homelessness response in Anaheim. Under her leadership, the City integrated homelessness services into its Housing and Community Development Department, growing a small portfolio into $60 million in managed grants and interventions each year. 

Grace has overseen innovative programs such as family-specific rapid rehousing with the Anaheim Union High School District, the ACCESS court diversion program, and the Project Lease Up Housing Match process. She also helped establish the Anaheim Housing Trust Fund to strengthen housing development, prevention, and homeownership opportunities—all first-of-their-kind efforts in Orange County. 

Grace leads with technical expertise, balanced judgment, and a commitment to service. She is admired by her team and respected throughout the region for her ability to turn vision into lasting impact. Though she rarely seeks recognition, her work has shaped one of the most comprehensive city-led homelessness response systems in Orange County. Grace is a true Unsung Hero.

Housing and Health Community Healthcare Worker,
Latino Health Access

Richy Tochihuitl

Three words to describe Richy: Compassion, Empathy, Leadership 

Since the inception of the CalOptima Housing Navigation Program, Richy Tochihuitl has been a driving force in shaping its structure and success. Working alongside the Housing and Health team at Latino Health Access, he helps families prevent displacement, navigate the eviction process, and access stable housing. 

Richy has facilitated housing for nearly 50 families, making a direct impact on their overall health and well-being while highlighting the critical link between housing and health. His leadership, empathy, and compassion enable him to navigate complex systems effectively and provide meaningful support to those most in need. 

Through his dedication and care, Richy has strengthened both the program and the lives of the families it serves, embodying the spirit of an Unsung Hero.

Business Development Manager,
Chrysalis

Tarsha Turner

Three words to describe Tarsha: Empathy, Integrity, Teamwork

Chrysalis recognizes Tarsha Turner as an Unsung Hero for her leadership, compassion, and ability to create life-changing opportunities for clients. Since joining in 2024, she has been instrumental in cultivating and expanding employment and community partnerships, directly leading to more than 50 clients securing jobs in the past year. 

What stands out most about Tarsha is her genuine care for people. She leads with empathy, builds trust with ease, and approaches challenges with creativity and determination. Her teamwork and innovation inspire colleagues to adopt new approaches, while her integrity ensures she always chooses to do what is right for both the organization and the people it serves.

Permanent Supportive Housing Case Manager,
Pathways of Hope

Whitney Wakefield

Three words to describe Whitney: Commitment, Compassionate, Positive 

Whitney Wakefield is a true Unsung Hero at Pathways of Hope, exemplifying passion, dedication, and excellence in all she does. Over the past year, she has gone above and beyond to ensure her clients’ success, often juggling her time to support smooth transitions into safe and stable housing. 

Her positive attitude uplifts those around her, helping clients feel supported and hopeful while motivating her colleagues with optimism and energy. She demonstrates deep compassion, listening attentively, treating every person with dignity and respect, and creating trust that has a lasting impact. Her unwavering commitment is evident in the way she consistently goes beyond her role, embodying reliability, perseverance, and a strong sense of purpose in everything she does. 

Through her dedication and heart, Whitney has not only transformed the lives of her clients but also inspired her colleagues, leaving a lasting mark on the Pathways of Hope community.

Compliance Associate,
Friendship Shelter

Cassidy Beach

Three words to describe Cassidy: Attitude, Kindness, Teamwork

Cassidy Beach brings positivity, kindness, and teamwork to everything they do at Friendship Shelter. In their role supporting two programs with complex and ever-changing compliance requirements, Cassidy approaches challenges with patience, collaboration, and a smile.

Their colleagues describe them as “the glue that holds our program together” and say that “we won the compliance lottery having Cassidy on our team.” This year, Cassidy went above and beyond by creating and leading a staff training on gender differences, helping both staff and clients feel better supported and understood.

Cassidy’s presence not only makes difficult work easier, it uplifts their entire team—a true example of an Unsung Hero.

Board Member and Volunteer,
Schools on Wheels

Laleh Dallalnejad

Three words to describe Laleh: Dedicated, Leadership, Passionate 

Since 2010, Laleh Dallalnejad has been a dedicated tutor with School on Wheels, supporting more than fifteen students experiencing homelessness across Orange County. Her consistency, care, and passion for education have made a lasting difference in the lives of the children she serves.

In 2024, Laleh joined the School on Wheels Board of Directors, where she continues to champion the mission and share her expertise. She also inspires others to get involved, most recently organizing a volunteer recruitment event at First American Financial where employees assembled over 160 backpacks and raised thousands of dollars for students in need.

Alongside her board service, Laleh continues tutoring, recently taking on a new student. She is a true Unsung Hero whose leadership and commitment uplift students and strengthen the community.