The Heart of Valeo

CEO

Sherri Jensen has worked in the field of workforce development for more than a decade and believes meaningful employment not only provides a wage, but also a sense of self-worth.

Sherri began her staffing career in 2009, working as a staffing specialist, business developer and branch sales manager at a for-profit staffing company before leaving the private market to follow her passion into a helping position. In 2015 Sherri launched her non-profit career, beginning as a case manager and leading into program management of a SNAP E&T Pilot program, RISE (Resources to Initiate Successful Employment).

Sherri's for-profit staffing experience gave her the opportunity to learn sales, management and business development, which were invaluable tools when she launched Valeo Vocation. Sherri’s infallible business acumen learned in the for-profit world has allowed her to build an organization primed to scale and led by the compassion learned in her direct service roles.

Chief Operating Officer

I have been in the automotive distribution industry for over 30 years and currently work as a Director of Logistics at Performance Radiator.  Through my role in the warehouse segment, I provide a different lens in the work needed to end homelessness.  I am a dedicated ambassador in working with people in challenging times to provide employment. In working with Valeo we give people Dignity, Love, and Community with earning an income.  We believe every person has value and purpose.

The work that is happening at Valeo has ignited change by empowering individuals as they move towards full-time employment and permanent housing.  We are making a difference, and I am proud to be a member of the Valeo vocational team.

In my spare time, I enjoy hunting, golfing, and of course working with and seeing my friends at Valeo.

Government Relations and Compliance Manager

Toni Whitehead serves as the Government Relations and Compliance Manager at Valeo Vocation, where she leads contract compliance, policy oversight, and legislative monitoring to support the organization’s mission.

With extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, community development, and trauma-informed practice, Toni brings a strong commitment to integrity, collaboration, and systems improvement.

She is also a certified motivational speaker and trained in nonprofit management, grant writing, yoga, and social-emotional facilitation. Passionate about elevating people and programs, Toni is dedicated to strengthening organizational culture, expanding community partnerships, and ensuring that services remain responsive, equitable, and mission-aligned.

Commercial Staffing Manager

Andrea Austin brings over 25 years of experience in Management, Payroll, Bookkeeping, Customer Service & Sales, to help her manage the back-office operations at Valeo Vocation. Andrea also brings volunteer experience that includes mentoring young adults, PTA Treasurer Board Position, preparing & serving meals to people experiencing homelessness & several other positions that have given her experience in leading people & organizations toward the mission of serving the people they are passionate about.

Andrea’s passion is to serve people in need—to provide hope to people who desire the opportunity to make changes that allow for a better life for themselves & for their families. In addition to her back-office responsibilities, Andrea loves to invest time into establishing relationships with Valeo’s clients & seeks mentorship opportunities whenever she can.

Director of Workforce Housing

Kyle was born in Tacoma WA, raised by a single mother that fought addiction and alcoholism his whole life. With having no father at home Kyle turned to the streets at an early age for guidance and acceptance. There is where he learned a life of crime and substance abuse. This went on for years, addiction, homelessness, crime and incarcerations. It wasn’t until Kyle was offered Pierce County’s Felony Drug Court that he finally found his road to recovery. It was in this program that Kyle not only found his way to start the journey to his recovery, but also found his compassion in helping others on their recovery journeys.

Kyle is now a Certified Peer Counselor walking alongside and empowering others in recovery. Kyle is looking forward to furthering his education in substance use and mental health disorders to continue to help those that may be in the same situation he once was in.

Senior Accountant

Linh joined Valeo Vocation in June 2024, bringing extensive experience in nonprofit accounting. Prior to her role here, she transitioned from Palmar Scholars and has already proven to be an invaluable asset to our team. 

Originally from Vietnam, Linh began her career in education before pursuing a B.S. in accounting. She shifted her focus to the accounting field and spent five years working for a for-profit company. Afterward, Linh transitioned into nonprofit work, where she spent the next six years honing her skills and deepening her passion for the sector. 

Tacoma has become Linh's second hometown, where her parents and family have lived for many years. Her love for nonprofit work grew during her time at a nonprofit organization, and she brings that same dedication and passion to Valeo Vocation, where she continues to make a meaningful impact. 

Workforce Development Programs Manager

Calvin brings 34 years of State Government Service, with 27 of those years being employed at DSHS. His long and accomplished career in the field of social services is driven by his desire to assist those in need to better their lives and their families’ lives. As a case manager within DSHS he helped countless people/families achieve their goals of gainful employment, secure housing, education, and the tools and path to self-sufficiency and improved quality of life.

Calvin later headed a program called the Employment Pipeline, a first of its kind employment and training program within DSHS. In this Workforce development leadership role, he found his niche and calling connecting job seekers to employers.

Calvin was born in Panama; his father was a Master Sergeant in the Army and his mother was an Elementary School Teacher. He credits this as to why he is so adaptable within in so many diverse communities and embraces all ethnicities and races and cultures.

Calvin attended the University of Washington studying Communication and Psychology as well as enrolling in Social Service courses. His hobbies include Golfing, Fishing, and gaming on XBOX.

Facilities Manager

Calvin “CJ” Fahnestock is a Tacoma, Washington native whose personal journey through adversity has shaped his deep commitment to supporting others in recovery. Having experienced trauma, substance use disorder, and homelessness firsthand, CJ reached a turning point when he entered the New Life Program—a yearlong rehabilitation program at the Tacoma Rescue Mission. It was there that his life began to change.

Originally trained as an electrician, CJ discovered his true passion during his recovery journey: empowering others who face similar struggles. Drawing on his lived experience, he has dedicated himself to walking alongside individuals battling substance use disorder, mental health challenges, and other life barriers.

Today, CJ is a certified Peer Support Counselor and continues to expand his knowledge through ongoing education in the field of substance use disorder, and Project Management. He began his professional path at Valeo Vocation as a HIRE Crew Supervisor and, due to his leadership and dedication, was quickly promoted to Facilities Manager. CJ’s mission is to use the tools and insight he has gained to help transform lives, just as his own was transformed.

Executive Assistant

Brenna truly found her love for non profit when she began working for Valeo as a temp worker in the shelters. She always knew she was meant to help others but did not know where to begin.

Brenna was raised in the Spanaway/Tacoma area from a very young age and is very familiar with poverty, addiction and mental health so when she started working in the shelters through Valeo she knew her passion was to dedicate her knowledge, empathy and experience in helping others become self sustainable and to be a part of the change in our community.

Administrative Assistant

I began my journey at Valeo Vocational as an intern and, through dedication and a deep commitment to our mission, worked my way up to Office Administrator. Growing up in Tacoma, Washington, I was exposed early to the realities of addiction, financial hardship, and mental health challenges. While I have not personally struggled with addiction, it has been a constant presence in my life through parents, stepparents, partners, and friends who were affected by it. Those experiences shaped my understanding, empathy, and passion for helping others navigate difficult circumstances.

I have always found myself drawn to supporting people during some of their most challenging moments, often stepping in to help wherever I could. That drive naturally led me to work in a field centered on recovery, growth, and second chances.

In addition to my role at Valeo Vocational, I am a single mother to three children, a responsibility that has strengthened my resilience, compassion, and determination. I bring both professional experience and personal understanding to my work, and I am proud to be part of an organization that helps individuals build stability, confidence, and a better future.

HR Generalist

Rashayla is a Seattle-raised individual whose path has been deeply influenced by the power of community support.

During her high school years, she was fortunate to be part of a youth development program whose mission closely aligns with that of Valeo dedicated to empowering individuals and providing the tools needed for long-term success. The guidance and encouragement she received through that program were instrumental in helping her reach her current stage in life. Motivated by the impact others had on her journey, Rashayla developed a strong commitment to giving back.

She is now dedicated to serving her community, creating opportunities for others, and being a source of support for those navigating similar paths continuing the cycle of care and empowerment that once lifted her. 

Calyx @ Franz Shelter Site Supervisor

Cheyenne’s early life was shaped by witnessing and experiencing severe domestic violence, which gave her a deep compassion for people and a strong belief in treating others with kindness and respect. After escaping the abuse, Cheyenne and her mom found themselves living in a domestic violence shelter without a home or a dollar. In her teenage years, Cheyenne faced challenges, including struggles with substance use and legal troubles. After years of spending time in and out of juvenile hall, she found an opportunity for a fresh start through drug court, which allowed her to rebuild her life and work toward a better future.  

In 2017, Cheyenne discovered her passion for helping those experiencing houselessness. Her experience spans shelter operations, case management, and program management. She is especially focused on building community through programming and life skills workshops, with an emphasis on creating safer, more supportive, and trauma-informed environments. Cheyenne hopes to empower and equp individuals with the tools and support they need to find and maintain long-term housing stability.

Cheyenne is dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of others, aiming to ensure that everyone she works with feels supported, seen, heard, and valued.

Stability Peer

For 15 years, I struggled with addiction, caught in a cycle that took everything from me—my peace, my purpose, and nearly my life. But everything changed when I entered drug court. It wasn’t easy, but with structure, support, and accountability, I began to rebuild from the ground up. Drug court didn’t just keep me out of jail—it gave me a second chance and the tools to reclaim my future. 

Today, I am proud to serve as a HIRE Crew Supervisor, helping others navigate the same path I once walked. My past is now my purpose—I use my experience to guide and support those in recovery, showing them that change is possible, and that a better life is waiting on the other side of the struggle. 

Vocational Counselor

As a child, Taylar saw her parents open their doors for people who were struggling. From a young age, Taylar has always felt that it was her purpose in life to help others. With the support of her family, she worked her way through college graduating cum laude from Pacific Lutheran University in the fall of 2022. Taylar studied psychology and has an interest in obtaining her Master’s Degree in Industrial/Organizational psychology. Taylar’s desire to provide dignity of work to high barriered individuals led her to Valeo. As an Employment Specialist, Taylar strives to put her best foot forward every day to help folks in need.

Beacon Shelter Site Supervisor

Zhane is an Arizona native, growing up under parents who were involved in the community, volunteering to feed the community. Zhane graduated from high school, went to college to start a career in Criminal Justice, found her interest was more caring for people, then began a career in taking care of others and working in group homes for 10years. Now, Zhane is pursuing a degree in LPN to continue that care for others. She recently relocated to Washington while continuing building for herself and kids. She enjoys helping with the community and giving back to those in need.

Transportation & Outreach Specialist

I was born in Long Beach, California, and later moved to Tacoma, Washington. By the age of 14, I had lost both my parents and grandparents. Struggling with the absence of love and stability, I turned to the streets and became involved with a gang. My life quickly became troubled, and by the age of 16, I had developed addictions that would lead me down a destructive path. Over the years, I lost jobs, relationships, and loved ones as addiction consumed more and more of my life.

In 2018, I experienced homelessness and fell deeper into fentanyl addiction, losing everything. However, in September of 2024, I entered the New Life Program and made the decision to give my life to Christ. From that moment on, I have remained clean and sober. Through hard work, focus, and faith, I have been rebuilding my life.

Valeo Vocation gave me an opportunity that changed my future, and I am deeply thankful to God for granting me a second chance at life. I am also grateful to the Tacoma Rescue Mission for providing the love, support, and tools I needed to change, and to Valeo for allowing me to give back to the very community I once took from.

When asked what “New Life” means to me, I define it as God, Love, Hope, Healing, Community, Accountability, Dignity, and Courage.

One love — God’s love.

Calyx @ Plum Shelter Site Supervisor

I grew up in a home where drugs were a constant presence, and I learned the ways of the street life at a young age. This environment led me down a path of struggle with substance abuse for many years. It wasn’t until I found myself sitting in prison that I reached a turning point—I realized I was tired of taking from people and wanted to dedicate my life to giving back.

While I was incarcerated, my mother shared that she had started working for an incredible organization called Valeo, serving in shelters. When I told her about my desire to turn my life around, she encouraged me to apply there once I was released. Just four days after regaining my freedom—while still wearing an ankle monitor—I took her advice and joined Valeo as part of the Hire Crew.

After working diligently on the Hire Crew for two months, I expressed my interest in working directly in shelters. Valeo recognized my determination and gave me the opportunity to work at Beacon. I poured my heart into that role, and after six months of hard work, another opportunity came my way: managing a site in Olympia.

With the guidance and support of Valeo’s leadership, I’ve embraced every challenge and feel like I’m truly excelling in my role. My journey hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth it, and I’m proud of the person I’m becoming through this experience.

Finance Specialist

Lisa Oatts comes from an experienced background of medical billing, AR insurance management, and finance that extends past 20 years of impactful work. She began her career at Health Services NW in 2001 where she specialized in research and coordination when it came to financial and medical agreements with clients. Lisa continued her management and organization work with, what is now, Virginia Mason Franciscan Health in 2010. Along with her vast professional experience, Lisa brings an abundance amount of volunteer expertise from her time serving as Treasurer for Bellarmine Preparatory School’s Parents of African American Students Association, as well as a committed volunteer for a number of Tacoma organizations.

As a Tacoma native, Lisa’s love for the city of Tacoma and service has led her to Valeo Vocation as a Human Resource Generalist where she assists in managing the back-office operations.

HIRE Crew Supervisor

Justin, a proud Pacific Northwest native, embodies resilience and transformation. After enduring a 30-year battle with substance abuse and overcoming the impact of childhood trauma, he reached a turning point in 2022. In January 2023, Justin committed to rebuilding his life by joining Tacoma Rescue Mission's New Life Program. Over 22 months, he addressed his mental health challenges, including depression, anxiety, and PTSD, and achieved lasting sobriety. 

Today, Justin volunteers his time at the mission, giving back to the program that profoundly changed his life. His dedication to helping others reflects his gratitude and desire to inspire those facing similar struggles. Justin has also rebuilt his relationship with his daughter, creating a bond stronger than ever. Additionally, he has reconnected with family and friends, while forming meaningful new relationships that enrich his life. 

Justin’s journey is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the impact of community and perseverance. He is passionate about making a difference and helping others discover their own paths to recovery and personal growth. 

Stability Peer

Lanae was born and raised in Tacoma, where her early life was marked by challenges, including a turbulent home environment that led to separated parents. This difficult start pushed her towards unhealthy coping mechanisms, and by the age of 15 she was drinking heavily. By 19,  was using substances and drifting from place to place. At 22, Lanae met her children’s father, and though they both struggled with addiction, she took her first brief step toward sobriety when she had her first child at 26. However, she relapsed until her second child was born at 30. 

When her son was just three weeks shy of turning one, he overdosed but survived. That moment served as my wake-up call, leading her to leave behind that past and pursue a new life. She moved to a new city, hoping for a fresh start, but after a car accident due to alcohol use, she found herself facing community service and substance abuse classes. That is when she lost everything and became homeless with two young children, but refused to give up. 

Over the years, Lanae persevered, and about eight years ago, she began working in the mental health field. It was then that she discovered her passion for peer counseling. Since then, Lanae has dedicated herself to support others facing similar struggles. She is now a Peer Counselor with three years of experience as a case manager helping individuals experiencing homelessness. 

Having personally navigated mental health challenges, addiction, domestic violence, and homelessness, Lanae has now been sober for 13 years and will remain committed to this journey every day. Her lived experiences fuel her desire to give back to the community and help others see their potential for growth and healing. Through empathy, understanding, and guidance, Lanae strives to help others overcome their obstacles and rebuild their lives. 

Stability Peer

Miah Snelling is a dedicated Case Manager and Stability Peer, coordinating comprehensive care for individuals navigating complex life circumstances.

With firsthand insight into the challenges faced by individuals experiencing homelessness and addiction, Miah draws from her own lived experience with homelessness and addiction and brings a unique depth of understanding and compassion to her work.

Miah is committed to creating real change by meeting people where they are and guiding them toward lasting support and recovery. 

Beacon Kitchen Coordinator

I am honored to serve as the Kitchen Coordinator at the Beacon Young Adult Shelter, where I am committed to giving back and supporting others with compassion and care. As a woman in recovery, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to be part of the Valeo family and to contribute to the positive changes we are building together. I look forward to nourishing both our community and the young adults at Beacon and to advancing our shared mission through my work and my heart.

Building Services Supervisor

Donna was a Veteran Sous Chef when COVID-19 separated her from her Job at Point Defiance Zoo and Aquarium. Concerned about the current conditions in the restaurant and hospitality industry, she decided to move in a different direction, and began putting in applications for house keepers, when her son told her about the janitorial training program at Valeo. Donna joined the class and learned the basics of office cleaning and residential cleaning. Shortly after she graduated the program, she was offered a position at Valeo.

She says, “I couldn’t be happier with my job here at Valeo. Everyone has been so helpful and supportive, meeting them has changed my whole perspective on life. Valeo has changed my life for the better in more ways than one.”

Vocational Counselor

Judy Taylor is a native of Los Angeles, California and Graduated from Dominguez High School in Compton, California. She also has formal training and acquired a degree in early childhood education that she received from Pasadena City College. This degree led her to a position within the Tacoma Public School District as the involvement coordinator, as well as assisting faculty and staff members with day to day tasks after she moved to Tacoma, Washington in 1999 to create better experiences for her husband and three children.

One of Judy’s main passions include volunteer work. For the last 10 years, her volunteer experience includes Tacoma Rescue Mission, Adam Street Shelter, feeding the homeless every week, as well as distributing food and supplies to families in need. These experiences have led her to her current position at Valeo. She believes she has been put in this position to help people within the community to get back on their feet, and regain self confidence.

Business Development

Clayton began his journey at Valeo in 2023 as the Olympia HIRE Crew Supervisor. Driven by a profound passion for social justice and community development, Clayton dedicates himself tirelessly to empower marginalized communities by paving pathways to employment. His approach involves establishing strong customer relationships with employers, bridging gaps, and creating opportunities for those often overlooked.

At Valeo, Clayton brings a distinctive perspective, deeply committed to recognizing and valuing the diverse strengths and perspectives within the community. He firmly believes in the intrinsic worth and value of every individual, striving to instigate positive change and foster resilience among those he serves.

Clayton's journey exemplifies his unwavering commitment to making a difference, one that is rooted in empathy, inclusivity, and a genuine desire to uplift others.

Staffing Specialist

A dedicated and people-focused professional originally from San Diego, I bring a strong foundation in leadership, sales, customer service, and hospitality. My career has been shaped by a passion for creating meaningful connections, delivering exceptional experiences, and driving results in fast-paced environments.

I take pride in leading by example, fostering positive team cultures, and consistently exceeding expectations for both clients and colleagues. With a natural ability to connect with diverse audiences, I thrive in roles that blend relationship-building with strategic thinking.

Beyond my professional work, I am deeply committed to giving back to the community. Whether through volunteering, mentorship, or supporting local initiatives, I believe in using my skills and experience to make a positive and lasting impact.

Office Cat

Meow

Development

Teri Moore, Fund Development, has been working in nonprofits as both a grantmaker and a grantseeker for nearly 40 years. Her particular expertise and love is Foundation Relations. She recently received the Unsung Hero award from the Association of Fundraising Professionals-Tacoma Chapter as part of their first National Philanthropy Day Celebration. She lives on a mini farm with her husband, Joe, with a handful of farm animals and one crazy boxer dog!tion goes here

Social Media Director

Tyler Panagiotu is a social media manager and owner of Vital Media Studios, where he combines his passion for marketing, social media, and photography to help brands tell their stories. Based in Tacoma, Tyler values community-driven storytelling and creative collaboration. When he's not crafting digital strategies, he enjoys life with his spouse and their two beloved corgis.

Marketing & Design

Roni Ayalla is the owner of Sandpaper Productions, a design, communications and strategy agency based in Austin, Texas. Roni began her design career working for the YMCA of Greater Seattle. Roni welcomed her first child, Drew Anthony, into the world this past July.

Marketing & Design

Michael Bean is the co-owner of Sandpaper Productions, a design, communications and strategy agency based in Austin, Texas. Michael specializes in content and narrative development. When not helping his wife and partner Roni with the business, Michael can be found playing with his first son, Drew.

Board Member

Erica Azcueta, currently serving as a Senior Advisor with King County’s Department of Community and Human Services, is a committed human services professional with more than 15 years of experience across the public and nonprofit sectors. Her work has centered on homelessness, affordable housing, and behavioral health, with a steadfast commitment to equity and inclusion.

Prior to her role with King County, Erica led the City of Seattle’s Homeless Outreach and Provider Ecosystem (HOPE) Team, where she worked to improve coordination among outreach providers and city systems. Throughout her career, she has advised elected officials across Washington State on issues related to housing instability, access to services, and systems reform.

Erica's professional journey began in behavioral health services, including her work with the National Alliance on Mental Illness. These formative years—supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and mental health challenges—have deeply shaped her systems-level approach and her understanding of the structural barriers facing marginalized communities.

Erica has served on Valeo Vocation’s Board of Directors since 2012, making her one of its longest-standing members. Her leadership has been instrumental in shaping Valeo’s trauma-informed, employment-first model. Her unwavering commitment to racial equity, dignity, and community empowerment continues to influence Valeo’s strategic direction and impact.

Board Member

Emily Happy is a Puget Sound native with deep roots in the community. For 20+ years, she has dedicated her career to service, leading projects to support people in her community. As a nonprofit strategist and fundraising consultant for the past decade, Emily helps organizations thrive and build capacity for their world-changing work.

Emily also serves as past president of the Association of Fundraising Professionals South Sound and the South Sound Philanthropy Summit, vice chair of the Board of Trustees of Charles Wright Academy, and member of the board of Friends of the Children – Tacoma. Her most important title is Mama.

Board Member

Corwin R. Scott is a lifelong resident in the City of Tacoma. I am the Executive Director of the nonprofit agency, the Evergreen Empowerment Group (EEG). The EEG exists to assist people returning from prison to vacate and expunge their nonviolent criminal records.

I earned a bachelor’s degree from the Evergreen State College in Tacoma, obtained a double MBA in Marketing and Management and attended law school.

My day job is at the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) as the Title VI Equity Specialist. I am responsible for oversight of WSDOT’s statewide Title VI Program under the Community Engagement and Environmental Justice Manager.  The Title VI program ensures all agency programs, activities and services are equitable and implemented in a non-discriminatory fashion according to the 1964 Civil Rights Act. 

I am a panelist on the Washington State Justice and Training Commission team, where I am tasked with the review of the certifications of former law enforcement officers for eligibility of them serving in that role again. 

In January, I was appointed by the Governors Office to serve as a commissioner on the Washington State Commission on African American Affairs. 

Board Member

I have been in the automotive distribution industry for over 30 years and currently work as a Director of Logistics at Performance Radiator.  Through my role in the warehouse segment, I provide a different lens in the work needed to end homelessness.  I am a dedicated ambassador in working with people in challenging times to provide employment. In working with Valeo we give people Dignity, Love, and Community with earning an income.  We believe every person has value and purpose.

The work that is happening at Valeo has ignited change by empowering individuals as they move towards full-time employment and permanent housing.  We are making a difference, and I am proud to be a member of the Valeo vocational team.

In my spare time, I enjoy hunting, golfing, and of course working with and seeing my friends at Valeo.

President, Board

Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Luis Rivera Zayas brings more than 35 years of service-driven leadership to his role as President of the Board for Valeo Vocation. A 26-year U.S. Army veteran, he served as a paramedic, nurse, and intelligence professional—experiences that shaped his lifelong commitment to dignity, compassion, and integrity.

After retiring from the military, Luis continued his service at the Tacoma Rescue Mission, where he spent nine years in leadership roles, including Senior Director of Operations. He earned a reputation for managing complex programs, strengthening systems, and leading teams with clarity and purpose.

Luis is known for a grounded, practical, and people-centered servant-leadership style. He believes meaningful change happens through engagement, dialogue, and shared humanity. His military background informs his operational rigor, while his nonprofit leadership reflects strategic focus and deep compassion. As he moves into the next chapter of his journey, his impact endures through the people he has mentored, the structures he helped build, and his continued volunteer work.

Luis holds a bachelor’s degree in Leadership and an associate degree in Foreign Language (Thai). He also serves as President of the Board for the Foundation for Multicultural Solutions, El Camino, and remains active in his church and community.

Luis has been part of Valeo Vocation since its earliest beginnings. He believes strongly in the organization’s mission to bring dignity, stability, and hope through employment, and finds joy and purpose in supporting this transformative work.