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.

Senior Director of Operations

HR 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.

Fiscal Manager

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. 

Outreach 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.

Financial Controller

Governance, Risk & Compliance Officer

Meet Rob’n T. Vazquez, an accomplished finance expert with over 20-years of experience in strategic leadership, compliance oversight, and policy adherence. 

Prior to joining Valeo, Rob’n was a successful private consultant in multiple industries, helping organizations bridge the gap between administration, staff, and technology.  During COVID, Rob'n decided to intentionally seek out a career where she could use her skillset in a more intrinsically rewarding environment. 

While her role in the nonprofit world is more ‘behind the scenes,’ she finds fulfillment in supporting staff who are directly impacting the lives of our residents and neighbors in Tacoma and beyond. 

In her spare time, she is a devoted pet parent to her ever-growing “posse of pups”, and as a talented voice-over artist, she can be heard in some local ads & corporate training videos and is currently working on an animated short film (about dogs, of course)! 

Facilities Manager

Calvin (CJ) is a native to Tacoma, Washington. From a very young age he experienced trauma and abuse, which led him to years of substance abuse and years of struggling with depression and anxiety. During which time he became homeless and lost everything he had. It was at this time CJ came across the New Life Program, a yearlong rehabilitation program at the Tacoma Rescue Mission in which changed his life forever. An electrician by trade, but after learning about himself and finding his true passion during the time of his recovery, he then knew he was meant to take all the tools he has learned and developed and instill them in others who are on the same road of recovery. CJ is an incredible peer and has dedicated all his knowledge and life experiences to help people in our community overcome substance abuse disorder and other barriers and challenges that he once had to go through and came out on the other side. CJ is now a certified peer support counselor and will continue his education in substance use disorder to continue supporting others. 

Executive Assistant to Sr. Director of Operations

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.

Susan was raised in a military family and moved a lot throughout her childhood. She was born in Germany but spent most of her teen and young adult life In Lakewood/Tacoma Washington. Susan eventually saw how quickly addiction can take over somebody’s life. For years Susan dealt with substance abuse. As a young mother of 2 daughters, addicted to drugs trying to get by, she knew this isn’t the life she wanted to live forever. When her and her soon-to-be husband Michael decided to get clean and make a transformational change, they decided to leave everything behind in Tacoma and move to California. On their journey to sobriety, she gave birth to two more daughters and finally moved back to Tacoma, leaving their struggles behind them. 

Susan has years of management experience but after her husband passed away in 2016, she knew it was time to switch gears and do what she is passionate about. She ended up in the healthcare field as a CNA in a rehabilitation center. When Susan had an opportunity to run the Covid Isolation center for Valeo, she felt like she was finally where she was meant to be. Since then, Susan has been the Shelter Coordinator for 3 different shelters with Valeo. She is now responsible for staffing the food banks and managing the Shiloh Retreat Center in partnership with Shiloh Baptist Church. 

Staffing Specialist

Ciara grew up in Seattle's Central District, where she faced challenges early in life, including the impact of her parents' mental health struggles. These experiences shaped her resilience and empathy, qualities that became central to her personal and professional journey.  

As a young, single mother, Ciara found her calling as a doula, providing care and support to families during one of the most transformative moments of their lives. This work not only deepened her understanding of the importance of compassionate service but also equipped her with exceptional communication and problem-solving skills.  

Today, Ciara applies these strengths as a Staffing Specialist at Valeo, where she is dedicated to fostering supportive and inclusive workplaces. Her lived experiences and professional expertise allow her to connect meaningfully with others and advocate for equitable staffing solutions that uplift communities.  

Shelter Programs Manager

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.

Shelter Site Supervisor

Marquetta contributes significantly to our team with an impressive background in Case Management and Outreach Assistance. Originally from a small town in Ocala, Florida, she was raised by a dedicated single mother who instilled core values such as compassion in her upbringing. Marquetta relocated to Tacoma, Washington, at the age of 10, graduating from Woodrow Wilson High School. She pursued further education in social work and psychology at Bethune-Cookman College in Daytona Beach, Florida. Throughout her academic journey, Marquetta actively engaged in the medical field and dedicated her time to volunteering at homeless shelters. These experiences not only enriched her skill set but also underscored her commitment to aiding those in need within our community.

Presently, Marquetta serves as a Case Manager at Shiloh’s Men’s Retreat, where she eagerly looks forward to applying her diverse skills.

Kitchen Coordinator

Rosa Cerna to the Valeo Family as a Kitchen Coordinator with eight years of experience in the food industry. Her goal is to provide everyone with the best experience, food and service. Rosa is a current student at TCC finishing an AA in Human Services. She has a passion and compassion for helping others and is looking forwards to growing in this amazing establishment and making a difference in her residents' lives. 

Stabilization Specialist

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.

Social Enterprise Manager

Chris Gustafson comes to Valeo with a rich background in sales and operational management. A graduate of the University of Washington, Chris grew up working with the homeless through church and continued to volunteer in college as part of a capstone project. He went straight to work as a college grad in healthcare staffing as a recruiter, and was promoted to running his own branch within 15 months. There he developed as an award-winning organizational leader in the staffing world. He brings over 17 years of sales and operations management experience to the team at Valeo serving as our Sales Manager.

Chris has had a passion for serving the underserved since he was a child. With over 8 years of for-profit staffing experience he has made the transition to the non-profit world of staffing seamlessly. He has developed and nurtured partnerships for all of his career and continues to do so at Valeo. With a passion for both helping those that need it most and a growth mindset we look forward to what he can do at Valeo.

Workforce Services Case Manager

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.

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. 

TEP Case Manager

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. 

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.”

Shelter Staff Coordinator

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.

HIRE Crew Supervisor

Clayton is a HIRE Crew Supervisor at Valeo, where he began his journey 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.

Administrative Assistant

Erica was born in Tennessee, but moved around a lot staying in various shelters as a child. She graduated with her Associates in Business, Certificate in Entrepreneurship, Human resources, Sales, and Management. Erica has volunteered at various food banks, youth sport programs, and shelters in the Pierce County community.

One of the reasons Erica chose Valeo is her hands on experience of houselessness growing up. She wanted to give back in some way to the same community that helped raised her. Seeing that Valeo works closely with the houseless, so it was a perfect match for her to join the team. She can’t wait to see what kinds of skills she obtains while networking and working for Valeo. She is very excited to start a new chapter in her life with Valeo Vocation.

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.