WE WELCOME THESE PARTICIPATING FOUNDERS FOR THIS REDEMPTIVE BUSINESS LAB EXPERIENCE.
These founders work in finance, education, creative, commerce, and business services. As our inaugural founders, we're grateful for the opportunity to help invigorate the missions God placed in their hearts.
Community Preschools is owned and led by Amanda Castro. She is a certified professional midwife and has a Master of Science at the University of Texas at San Antonio. Amanda’s research experience spans from novel small molecule synthesis and design in treating different forms of cancer, to stem cell research, and viral synthesis and research. While studying for her master’s degree, Amanda was selected to represent the United States at the conference of Nobel Laureates in Lindau, Germany. During this trip, she was able to meet some of the most famous scientists of today as well as other young researchers from all over the world. Amanda received her Bachelor of Science at Stephen F. Austin State University and minored in biology. As a child, Amanda grew up working on a longhorn ranch. It was from this experience that Amanda gained appreciation for the importance of exploration to discover the world. Later this exploratory spirit would lead her to spend her summers in Mexico learning to speak Spanish and gain insight into Mexican culture. Now as a scientist, mother, and early childhood educator Amanda strongly believes in the importance of early childhood education. As the founder and executive director, Amanda leads all the day to day operation teams at the campuses. She is an expert in early education policy and administration. She is working on developing a coaching model that seeks to develop other christian educational entrepreneurs that work for the glory of God and to bring high quality programs to children
Jaciel Castro leads operational and administrative work at Community Preschools. He holds a bachelor's degree in Structural Engineering and is passionate about enhancing the operations infrastructure in the early childhood sector in a systematic way. He holds a second bachelors in organizational development from Texas A&M Commerce and a masters in finance from The University of Texas at San Antonio. Jaciel managed operations for a charter in Texas for 6 years before realizing that the best time to make an impact in the community is in early education. He left public education to work alongside some of the brightest minds in Texas to close gaps in early education infrastructure particularly around finance, scalability of programs operating in low-income communities and alignment between the early childhood sector and public education. The mission of Community Preschool’s is to lead the nation in data-driven disruptor and validator of EC best practices. He is a father of 4 young children, 3 of whom are learning Arabic in HISD. Passionate about seeing the world and overseas mission ministry to refugee communities.
Kevin Coker is the CEO and Chief Attorney of Restoring Justice. Kevin’s passion for social justice work was developed while he was a student at Morehouse College, the alma mater of Martin Luther King, Jr. His journey to indigent defense began with an internship at Davis Bozeman Johnson Law while he was a student at Vanderbilt Law School. Kevin saw the criminal justice system’s disproportionate impact on black, brown, and poor people and knew that he could not be a bystander. He became a Gideon’s Promise LSPP Fellow after law school, and he spent the next three years defending indigent clients as an assistant public defender with the Metropolitan Nashville Public Defender’s Office. After gaining expertise in client-centered advocacy, Kevin decided to move back to Houston to join Restoring Justice. Kevin grew up in the Westbury neighborhood of Houston, Texas. He was raised by West African parents in a house with his older brother. Kevin spent his upbringing developing his faith as member of the Westbury United Methodist Church, playing different sports, and focusing on becoming a lawyer. As a native Houstonian, Kevin is committed to improving the culture of indigent defense in Houston. When he’s not working, Kevin enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with his wife, Kennedy and dog, Sage.
Kathy is a wife, mother, author, writer, and advocate who has overcome sex trafficking. After many years of silence, Kathy decided to journal what had happened to her to deal with the surreal experience. That journal became a book. That book became a stage play. Partnering with many organizations, Kathy’s goal is to increase human trafficking awareness, fight for those experiencing trafficking, and mentor those who have overcome it. She now uses her voice and expertise to inspire others to join the fight against such a horrible atrocity. In 2018, Kathy was invited into The Oval Office to witness a bill she advocated for signed into law. In 2021, Kathy joined the United States Advisory Council on Human Trafficking by presidential appointment. During her time as a Program Director, Kathy developed a trauma-informed restorative care program for adult survivors of trafficking. She is now Co-Founder of Twelve 11 Partners, an organization committed to supporting individuals who have exited the life of trafficking and are on their journey to thriving. As a Keynote Speaker and leader in the field, Kathy continues to provide training and consulting to various groups committed to the fight against human trafficking, emphasizing cultural inclusion and awareness through the arts.
Dubbed Houston’s “queen of curious locations,” Lydia Hance, is the Founder and Artistic Director of Frame Dance and the Chief Curator of Frame x Frame Film Festival. She has been named an Emerging Leader by Dance/USA and has led Frame Dance in performances and dance films from the Galveston pier onto the METRO light rail, in the backs of U Haul trucks, downtown tunnels, parks, and museums, stages, and warehouses throughout Texas for the past twelve years. Dance Magazine says, “Hance is a master of making dances in concert with a specific environment to both an invited and random audience.” A champion of new music composers, her work deepens interdisciplinary and multigenerational collaborations, and investigates the placement of dance in our lives. Her work has been funded by city, state, and national foundations. She is a choreographer, curator, filmmaker, educator, and dance writer originally from the California Bay Area. Her screen dances have been included in festivals across the world including most recently the American Dance Festival (North Carolina), Lady Filmmakers Festival (Beverly Hills, CA), Fuselage Dance Film Festival (Seattle, WA), and the 3 Minute Film Festival (Santa Barbara, CA). Hance holds degrees in Dance Performance and English Literature from SMU and trained at the Taylor School, Graham School, Tisch School of the Arts, Limon Institute, and SMU and has performed locally, nationally, and internationally with professional dance companies. She has served on artistic advisory boards of Fresh Arts and Diverse Works and has been a curator of the Third Coast Dance Film Festival, Dance Alabama Film Festival, and the EnCore Dance on Film Festival.
I'm a mother of 4, including 2 adopted through foster care. I have a BSN from Baylor and an MSN from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. Prior to founding The Riverside Project, I worked as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in pediatric community health and school-based healthcare. I'm also a Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) Practitioner, and my husband, Drew, is a pastor in the Houston area.
Amy Fuller PhD, LPC-S, LMFT-S, CST-S Amy Fuller is the founder and Clinical Director of Fuller Life Family Therapy. She brings over 25 years of experience and expertise in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy to Fuller Life. Her role focuses on facilitating the professional development of post-graduate therapists and ensuring the quality of care for our clients. Amy Fuller holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy from St. Mary’s University and a Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Abilene Christian University. Dr. Fuller is a Clinical Member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists and an Approved AAMFT Supervisor. In addition, she is a board-approved supervisor for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists and Licensed Professional Counselors in the state of Texas. Dr. Fuller is a Certified Sex Therapist with the American Association of Sex Educators Counselors and Therapists. Dr. Fuller is also a Certified Spiritual Director. In addition, she holds a Certificate in Non-Profit Leadership from Rice University. Dr. Fuller sees clients in Houston Texas specializing in couples and sex therapy, trauma, and depression with over 25 years of experience in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy. She offers a unique intensive format for couples utilizing the Crucible Approach.
Lover of our triune God from an early age, early high tech career, married and homeschooled six children, family & children's minister at our church, hospital chaplain focusing on authentically building culture based on corporate values, organizational development consultant, ED of Fellowship of Barnabas Partners. Heavily involved in church mission work. Grandmother to 11 wonderful kiddos!
OUR MISSION To unite, empower, and mobilize churches to multiply collective impact on their community.OUR VISION A coalition of interconnected churches and partners in every community of Greater Houston working together, loving their neighbors, and transforming their city.
Marvin Pierre currently serves as the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Eight Million Stories in Houston, Texas. Prior to taking on the role, Marvin was selected as a Bridge Fellow with The New Teacher Project, where he focused his fellowship on developing an alternative education program he called “Eight Million Stories”. His program became a reality and now aspires to upend the school-to-prison pipeline by supporting previously incarcerated youth as they re-enter school and - curbing unnecessary referrals from schools to the justice system in Houston. Marvin has also served as the Assistant Principal at KIPP Polaris Academy for Boys, also in Houston, Texas. Prior to joining KIPP Polaris, he served as the Dean of Students at Excellence Boys Charter School in Brooklyn, NY. Before pursuing a career in educational leadership, Marvin worked in finance at Goldman, Sachs & Company. Marvin, a native New Yorker, holds a B.A. in Economics from Trinity College in Hartford Connecticut, and a Master’s Degree in Education Administration and Supervision, from the University of Houston. Marvin is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., is an American Leadership Forum Fellow alumni and current board member and was selected into the inaugural class for Leadership ISD. Marvin was also recognized by the Houston Business Journal as a member of the 2022 40 Under 40 Class and was most recently named to the 2023 Black Changemakers Program, an award that highlights and trains the top 16 Black non-profit leaders. Marvin currently serves on the Board of Trustees at Tabor Academy and is a Board of Fellows member at his undergraduate alma mater, Trinity College (Hartford, CT) With all of that, Marvin has recently launched a high school dropout prevention program in partnership with the Houston Independent School District called HISD REAL (Reimagining Education and Life) to support youth who are at risk of dropping out of high school.
Hilda Marcel is a native Houstonian. She counts it all joy to be help others by sharing relevant information that inspires transformation. Her desire is to affect change by challenging others to grow through and beyond their circumstances by using the “3 Cs of Life”. Driven by her commitment to develop a community of compassion and care, she uses her skills and expertise in various for-profit and non-profit initiatives. She believes “volunteerism” is the commerce to community. Hilda holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and an Associate Degree of Theology. In 2021, after being employed by Shell Oil Products US, she felt a call to transition from employment to deployment. Hilda serves as a Local Pastor in the United Methodist Church sharing her gifts and passion for discipleship, pastoral care, and evangelism. She enjoys serving as a certified Professional Christian Life Coach and Mental Health Coach where she helps others gain movementum toward their goals and dreams for life. Hilda also serves as a Chaplain with Warrior Family Care Centers. In 2019, she founded LueWish, a nonprofit organization that grants wishes to women who are experiencing life altering issues due to cancer, heart disease and domestic violence. The organization seeks to inspire women to keep moving by living, loving, and laughing out loud in spite of. She works as a Vocational Rehabilitation and Job Readiness Trainer helping those with disabilities enter the workforce. Hilda has one son Jonathan and four beautiful grandchildren. She enjoys reading, cooking, road trips, and dancing. Her life mission…don’t fail the love test.
As a born and raised, native Houstonian, I relocated to Kansas City, MO when she was sixteen years old. Graduating from Bishop Hogan College Preparatory Academy in 1998 as one of the top in my class; I went on to receive a full academic scholarship to Rockhurst University, where I took up a double major in nursing and psychology. However, just two short years into my college career, tragedy struck, jolting me towards a new and unexpected career path. Shortly after my tenure at the university, I began working as a customer service agent at Pegasus Satellite Communications, where I quickly climbed my way up the corporate ladder becoming the youngest member of management in company history at the ripe age of 21. This kick started my 13 years of professional experience in customer service and call center management for companies like Long Motor Corporation, and RxSolutions/United Health Care, whereI developed additional skills in policy writing, training and implementation.
After the birth of my second child (who was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, mild Cerebral Palsy, and a movement disorder), I decided to shift my focus and attention towards raising my daughters as a stay-at-home wife and mother. During that time, I stood with my husband as he battled cancer for the first time (he us currently fighting cancer for the second time), and worked and went to school to better my chances at providing for my family. Once my girls were of school age, I chose to homeschool my children, and even went back to school myself to help develop my husband’s family business in the shoe, and salon services industries. From there, I was able to establish yet another new set of skills as Human Resources Manager at ECE Enterprises.
Now, with 12+ years of background in the nail and foot care service industries; I have acquired countless hours of experience. From local, state, and national awards in nail care, to several professional certifications, i.e. Certified Pediatric Medical Assistant (CPMA), Medical Nail Tech Instructor (MNTI), Medical Nail Technician (MNT), Advanced Nail Technician (ANT), all of which makes me uniquely qualified for the role I now play. I am committed to using my experience and expertise to help foster a healthier community, and improved quality of life for those I (we) serve. After developing apassion for meeting the needs of others through humble service, I founded “Do As I Have Done” Humanitarian Outreach, which is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, as a way to give back, by providing professional and compassionate foot-care to underserved and under-resourced communities. I am determined to never sacrifice the quality of service we provide to those who are otherwise without the means and the resources to care for themselves.
Reflecting on my testimony, I now recognize several key moments when God knocked at the door of my heart.Early Years: As a child around seven or eight, I remember telling my dad that by the age of thirty, I wanted to be a vicar. Watching these godly men on the British TV show Songs of Praise, I believed that they had it all together and must surely be going to heaven. At that young age, I was troubled by the thought of what happens after death, and though I didn’t have answers, I trusted that by the time I was my parents’ age, I’d have figured it out. Meanwhile, I focused on “being good” — excelling at school, sports, and friendships — convinced that success in these areas would secure my future.A Turning Point: At sixteen, I faced a profound loss that would challenge my understanding of life and death. A close friend, a talented cricketer, passed away suddenly from a heart attack at just 16. As I attended his funeral, I was haunted by the thought, “So Gregg now knows what it feels like to be dead.” It felt as though I instinctively understood that death wasn’t the end, but I was left wondering, Where had he gone? Was there a heaven for him?College and Rob's Transformation: During college, I lived with a friend, Rob Burns, who later experienced a dramatic spiritual transformation. Rob began attending church, reading his Bible, and sharing about Jesus — someone I had always thought of as only relevant for kids. His newfound faith intrigued me, but I dismissed it as a phase, though I couldn’t ignore the changes in him, particularly his newfound peace. Over time, we went our separate ways, but Rob’s testimony left an impression that would resurface later.
Living in Sin: In Wakefield, I worked as a Community Sports Leader, promoting sports among disadvantaged groups. Despite living in a relationship with my girlfriend and being distant from the Lord, I found myself doing uncomfortable tasks that pushed me beyond my comfort zone. I believe God was preparing me for something more significant, though I couldn’t see it at the time.The Wake-Up Call: The relationship with my girlfriend soon began to unravel. We had been hoping that a vacation to Houston in 1991 would solve our problems, but instead, we brought our struggles with us. During that trip, Rob’s example of a transformed life in Christ started to speak to me in ways I hadn’t anticipated. Rob’s peace and his deep connection with Jesus led me to reconsider everything I had believed. On October 13th, 1991, I visited North Oaks Baptist Church, where I felt the Holy Spirit tugging at my heart. The invitation to accept Jesus felt like the right decision, but I hesitated, worried about what others would think and unsure if I was ready for such a commitment.
Over the next week, through much reflection, I realized that I couldn’t keep resisting God’s call. On October 20th, 1991, I walked tothe front of that church, tears in my eyes, and invited Jesus into my heart. That night, I was baptized, and though I didn’t fully understand its significance at the time, it marked the beginning of a new life.
Post-Salvation: Upon returning to England, I shared my new faith with my parents, but their indifferent response left me feeling disappointed. Soon after, my relationship ended, and I moved back home to live with my parents.
God’s Call to Soccer Ministry: Six months later, I returned to the U.S., convinced that God had called me to share my faith through soccer. I was stepping into a completely different lifestyle than I had imagined. Instead of a desk job, I would be on the soccer field every day, sharing the Gospel with kids and families. This calling led to the founding of Sports Quest in 1996, as my wife and I decided to stay in the U.S. despite the practical option to return to England. We knew God had a greater plan for us.
Matthew 13:16 became a defining scripture for me, reminding me that I didn’t need to send people away, but could feed their spiritual hunger by sharing my hope in Christ. Though I was unqualified and insecure, I knew that Jesus would enable me, and He did. Over time, Isaw how God multiplied the impact of our ministry, drawing people toHimself through the game of soccer.
Celebrating God's Faithfulness: In 2026, Sports Quest will celebrate 30 years of ministry. The journey has had its challenges, but it’s beena testimony to how God transforms ordinary lives and gives them purpose. Today, I’m filled with gratitude for God’s grace, power, and provision. He alone is worthy of all the praise, and I’ll continue to share that praise tomorrow and every day that follows.
The first two years out of college I worked at Starbucks, the next several years I spent managing a Christian Brothers Automotive. I felt a tug to get into a field where I was helping marginalized communities. That led me to help an individual start a sober living house. I ran the house for just over 12 years before deciding to start Good Works Collective. We started about a year ago. Along the way I obtained a Master of Arts in Biblical Studies from RTS and started a Counseling Masters.
I'm a native of Orlando, FL, and began my pre-nursing journey at Valencia Community College in 2002, later obtaining a BSN degree in 2010 at Bethune Cookman University. Soon after, I joined the United States Army as a RN and worked on a med-surg unit for four years. Since that time, I've worked in RN case management, IV infusion therapy, and earned my MS degree in Health Education &Promotion. CompassRN was birthed from a long-time passion for mentoring, a love for the nursing profession, and my own personal struggle throughout college.
My life journey is a great example of God's Perfect Timing. Throughout my life, I have experienced challenges that resulted in the most amazing results, in God's time. Raised in a pastoral family, we lived in several communities which provided diverse experiences as well as various mentors that helped me become the person I am today. From a young age, I knew there was a calling on my life to serve God by serving others. Each chapter of my life has involved service and a level of entertainment. There have been opportunities that tempted me to veer off path, but God has been gracious to guide me back to the journey He has planned for me.
In God's Perfect Time, I met my wife 3 years ago and my most common prayer was answered in a manner that only God can orchestrate.
My professional career journey began at the Oklahoma State University Alumni Association as the Director of Chapter and External Relations. I spent 5 years directing the Chapter, Alumni Scholarship, and Game Day Activity Programs in addition to assisting with Fundraising.
I entered the full-time Camp and Retreat Ministry at Egan Camp &Retreat Center near Tahlequah, OK. As the Director/Manager, I oversaw all facility operations, marketing, fundraising, and personnel management.I was blessed to witness God use us to take a facility near closing and make it a profitable retreat center that continues to impact lives for Christ.
I joined the Lakeview staff as President/CEO in 2019 and have provided leadership through a very challenging five years. Lakeview was recovering from a traumatic period and needed consistent and grace-filled leadership. God has provided direction and grace to help us weather the recent storms while shifting the direction of our organization.
Diverse experiences within engineering, construction, commissioning and start up, project management, operations, asset management, business planning & analysis, commercial, corporate mergers, joint venture management, recruitment, staffing &development, research & technology, and a bit of change management across 5 continents.
I am a native Houstonian and a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT) in Washington and Texas, specializing in couples and adult therapy. Before entering mental healthcare, I worked in the for-profit sector and in ministry, gaining valuable insight into human connection and personal growth.After a mid-career shift into therapy, I combined my passion for emotional healing and self-discovery with evidence-based practices. I take a holistic approach, recognizing that true wellness involves mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being.I worked in the private and nonprofit sector before making a mid-career pivot into mental health. I started my private practice four years ago and I am looking to expand my services.
Joey Sanchez is a connector. As Founder of Cup of Joey, his mission is to create connections to a more fulfilling future. Cup of Joey is a weekly coffee happy hour for innovative ideas. He delivers program activations that help you explore your purpose in life and how to connect that to the greater community. Joey’s previous roles include senior Director of Ecosystems at the Ion Houston; Director of Corporate Engagement at Houston Exponential; Director of Sales at Greater Houston Partnership; and AR Manager with NOV. Joey holds a BBA and MBA in Business Administration and Management from Jacksonville University.
Bassey Ubokudom is a mission-driven entrepreneur with a deep background in healthcare operations and technology. As the founderand CEO of Shana, an on-demand homecare platform, he is dedicated to making caregiving more accessible, flexible, and safe for aging populations. With seven years of experience in health tech, two master’s degrees, and a personal connection to the challenges of caregiving, Bassey is passionate about bridging the gap between seniors and licensed caregivers. His vision for Shana is rooted in innovation, compassion, and empowering communities across the world to age with dignity and maintain their independence.
Kevin’s been doing this ministry thing for over 25 years. And he’s passionate—not only about the church, but about strong and purposeful design. After all, God has graced us with an intrinsic ability to create. To design beauty from nothing. To write, to draw, to build, to sing and to dance for something and someone bigger than ourselves.
Leading operations, Kevin is crucial to the daily work of Yellowbox. He keeps our creative team smooth-running and productive, inspiring us on the daily.
Who’s the most memorable person you’ve ever met? Around these parts, it’s our guy Tres. An artist, designer and strategist (with a passion for the local church), he works closely with our creative team to make sure every project we tackle is simultaneously inspiring and unforgettable.
Tres reminds us to keep dreaming. And honestly, that’s more important every day for us, for you, and for the rest of the world. Here’s a tip from Tres: write your dreams down and say them out loud every morning.
Say hi to Alen!
There’s a lot going on at Yellowbox. We’ve got design and video and websites and photoshoots and social media and more. The list just goes on and on. To make things easier on our team (and to keep us sane), we have Renata leading the charge on project management.
She’s the most organized person in the world. She uses charts and programs and stuff, and actually plans out the future—it’s crazy. She gets things done, and we’re forever grateful for her talent.
Say hi to Nick!
Say hi to Alejandro!
Say hi to Ivan!
Day hi to Shawn!
Say hi to Gavin!
Say hi to the contractor dream team!
Community Preschools is owned and led by Amanda Castro. She is a certified professional midwife and has a Master of Science at the University of Texas at San Antonio. Amanda’s research experience spans from novel small molecule synthesis and design in treating different forms of cancer, to stem cell research, and viral synthesis and research. While studying for her master’s degree, Amanda was selected to represent the United States at the conference of Nobel Laureates in Lindau, Germany. During this trip, she was able to meet some of the most famous scientists of today as well as other young researchers from all over the world. Amanda received her Bachelor of Science at Stephen F. Austin State University and minored in biology. As a child, Amanda grew up working on a longhorn ranch. It was from this experience that Amanda gained appreciation for the importance of exploration to discover the world. Later this exploratory spirit would lead her to spend her summers in Mexico learning to speak Spanish and gain insight into Mexican culture. Now as a scientist, mother, and early childhood educator Amanda strongly believes in the importance of early childhood education. As the founder and executive director, Amanda leads all the day to day operation teams at the campuses. She is an expert in early education policy and administration. She is working on developing a coaching model that seeks to develop other christian educational entrepreneurs that work for the glory of God and to bring high quality programs to children
Jaciel Castro leads operational and administrative work at Community Preschools. He holds a bachelor's degree in Structural Engineering and is passionate about enhancing the operations infrastructure in the early childhood sector in a systematic way. He holds a second bachelors in organizational development from Texas A&M Commerce and a masters in finance from The University of Texas at San Antonio. Jaciel managed operations for a charter in Texas for 6 years before realizing that the best time to make an impact in the community is in early education. He left public education to work alongside some of the brightest minds in Texas to close gaps in early education infrastructure particularly around finance, scalability of programs operating in low-income communities and alignment between the early childhood sector and public education. The mission of Community Preschool’s is to lead the nation in data-driven disruptor and validator of EC best practices. He is a father of 4 young children, 3 of whom are learning Arabic in HISD. Passionate about seeing the world and overseas mission ministry to refugee communities.
Kevin Coker is the CEO and Chief Attorney of Restoring Justice. Kevin’s passion for social justice work was developed while he was a student at Morehouse College, the alma mater of Martin Luther King, Jr. His journey to indigent defense began with an internship at Davis Bozeman Johnson Law while he was a student at Vanderbilt Law School. Kevin saw the criminal justice system’s disproportionate impact on black, brown, and poor people and knew that he could not be a bystander. He became a Gideon’s Promise LSPP Fellow after law school, and he spent the next three years defending indigent clients as an assistant public defender with the Metropolitan Nashville Public Defender’s Office. After gaining expertise in client-centered advocacy, Kevin decided to move back to Houston to join Restoring Justice. Kevin grew up in the Westbury neighborhood of Houston, Texas. He was raised by West African parents in a house with his older brother. Kevin spent his upbringing developing his faith as member of the Westbury United Methodist Church, playing different sports, and focusing on becoming a lawyer. As a native Houstonian, Kevin is committed to improving the culture of indigent defense in Houston. When he’s not working, Kevin enjoys reading, traveling, and spending time with his wife, Kennedy and dog, Sage.
Kathy is a wife, mother, author, writer, and advocate who has overcome sex trafficking. After many years of silence, Kathy decided to journal what had happened to her to deal with the surreal experience. That journal became a book. That book became a stage play. Partnering with many organizations, Kathy’s goal is to increase human trafficking awareness, fight for those experiencing trafficking, and mentor those who have overcome it. She now uses her voice and expertise to inspire others to join the fight against such a horrible atrocity. In 2018, Kathy was invited into The Oval Office to witness a bill she advocated for signed into law. In 2021, Kathy joined the United States Advisory Council on Human Trafficking by presidential appointment. During her time as a Program Director, Kathy developed a trauma-informed restorative care program for adult survivors of trafficking. She is now Co-Founder of Twelve 11 Partners, an organization committed to supporting individuals who have exited the life of trafficking and are on their journey to thriving. As a Keynote Speaker and leader in the field, Kathy continues to provide training and consulting to various groups committed to the fight against human trafficking, emphasizing cultural inclusion and awareness through the arts.
Dubbed Houston’s “queen of curious locations,” Lydia Hance, is the Founder and Artistic Director of Frame Dance and the Chief Curator of Frame x Frame Film Festival. She has been named an Emerging Leader by Dance/USA and has led Frame Dance in performances and dance films from the Galveston pier onto the METRO light rail, in the backs of U Haul trucks, downtown tunnels, parks, and museums, stages, and warehouses throughout Texas for the past twelve years. Dance Magazine says, “Hance is a master of making dances in concert with a specific environment to both an invited and random audience.” A champion of new music composers, her work deepens interdisciplinary and multigenerational collaborations, and investigates the placement of dance in our lives. Her work has been funded by city, state, and national foundations. She is a choreographer, curator, filmmaker, educator, and dance writer originally from the California Bay Area. Her screen dances have been included in festivals across the world including most recently the American Dance Festival (North Carolina), Lady Filmmakers Festival (Beverly Hills, CA), Fuselage Dance Film Festival (Seattle, WA), and the 3 Minute Film Festival (Santa Barbara, CA). Hance holds degrees in Dance Performance and English Literature from SMU and trained at the Taylor School, Graham School, Tisch School of the Arts, Limon Institute, and SMU and has performed locally, nationally, and internationally with professional dance companies. She has served on artistic advisory boards of Fresh Arts and Diverse Works and has been a curator of the Third Coast Dance Film Festival, Dance Alabama Film Festival, and the EnCore Dance on Film Festival.
I'm a mother of 4, including 2 adopted through foster care. I have a BSN from Baylor and an MSN from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston. Prior to founding The Riverside Project, I worked as a Pediatric Nurse Practitioner in pediatric community health and school-based healthcare. I'm also a Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) Practitioner, and my husband, Drew, is a pastor in the Houston area.
Amy Fuller PhD, LPC-S, LMFT-S, CST-S Amy Fuller is the founder and Clinical Director of Fuller Life Family Therapy. She brings over 25 years of experience and expertise in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy to Fuller Life. Her role focuses on facilitating the professional development of post-graduate therapists and ensuring the quality of care for our clients. Amy Fuller holds a Doctor of Philosophy in Marriage and Family Therapy from St. Mary’s University and a Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Abilene Christian University. Dr. Fuller is a Clinical Member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Therapists and an Approved AAMFT Supervisor. In addition, she is a board-approved supervisor for Licensed Marriage and Family Therapists and Licensed Professional Counselors in the state of Texas. Dr. Fuller is a Certified Sex Therapist with the American Association of Sex Educators Counselors and Therapists. Dr. Fuller is also a Certified Spiritual Director. In addition, she holds a Certificate in Non-Profit Leadership from Rice University. Dr. Fuller sees clients in Houston Texas specializing in couples and sex therapy, trauma, and depression with over 25 years of experience in the field of Marriage and Family Therapy. She offers a unique intensive format for couples utilizing the Crucible Approach.
Lover of our triune God from an early age, early high tech career, married and homeschooled six children, family & children's minister at our church, hospital chaplain focusing on authentically building culture based on corporate values, organizational development consultant, ED of Fellowship of Barnabas Partners. Heavily involved in church mission work. Grandmother to 11 wonderful kiddos!
OUR MISSION To unite, empower, and mobilize churches to multiply collective impact on their community.OUR VISION A coalition of interconnected churches and partners in every community of Greater Houston working together, loving their neighbors, and transforming their city.
Marvin Pierre currently serves as the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Eight Million Stories in Houston, Texas. Prior to taking on the role, Marvin was selected as a Bridge Fellow with The New Teacher Project, where he focused his fellowship on developing an alternative education program he called “Eight Million Stories”. His program became a reality and now aspires to upend the school-to-prison pipeline by supporting previously incarcerated youth as they re-enter school and - curbing unnecessary referrals from schools to the justice system in Houston. Marvin has also served as the Assistant Principal at KIPP Polaris Academy for Boys, also in Houston, Texas. Prior to joining KIPP Polaris, he served as the Dean of Students at Excellence Boys Charter School in Brooklyn, NY. Before pursuing a career in educational leadership, Marvin worked in finance at Goldman, Sachs & Company. Marvin, a native New Yorker, holds a B.A. in Economics from Trinity College in Hartford Connecticut, and a Master’s Degree in Education Administration and Supervision, from the University of Houston. Marvin is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., is an American Leadership Forum Fellow alumni and current board member and was selected into the inaugural class for Leadership ISD. Marvin was also recognized by the Houston Business Journal as a member of the 2022 40 Under 40 Class and was most recently named to the 2023 Black Changemakers Program, an award that highlights and trains the top 16 Black non-profit leaders. Marvin currently serves on the Board of Trustees at Tabor Academy and is a Board of Fellows member at his undergraduate alma mater, Trinity College (Hartford, CT) With all of that, Marvin has recently launched a high school dropout prevention program in partnership with the Houston Independent School District called HISD REAL (Reimagining Education and Life) to support youth who are at risk of dropping out of high school.
Hilda Marcel is a native Houstonian. She counts it all joy to be help others by sharing relevant information that inspires transformation. Her desire is to affect change by challenging others to grow through and beyond their circumstances by using the “3 Cs of Life”. Driven by her commitment to develop a community of compassion and care, she uses her skills and expertise in various for-profit and non-profit initiatives. She believes “volunteerism” is the commerce to community. Hilda holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and an Associate Degree of Theology. In 2021, after being employed by Shell Oil Products US, she felt a call to transition from employment to deployment. Hilda serves as a Local Pastor in the United Methodist Church sharing her gifts and passion for discipleship, pastoral care, and evangelism. She enjoys serving as a certified Professional Christian Life Coach and Mental Health Coach where she helps others gain movementum toward their goals and dreams for life. Hilda also serves as a Chaplain with Warrior Family Care Centers. In 2019, she founded LueWish, a nonprofit organization that grants wishes to women who are experiencing life altering issues due to cancer, heart disease and domestic violence. The organization seeks to inspire women to keep moving by living, loving, and laughing out loud in spite of. She works as a Vocational Rehabilitation and Job Readiness Trainer helping those with disabilities enter the workforce. Hilda has one son Jonathan and four beautiful grandchildren. She enjoys reading, cooking, road trips, and dancing. Her life mission…don’t fail the love test.
Kevin’s been doing this ministry thing for over 25 years. And he’s passionate—not only about the church, but about strong and purposeful design. After all, God has graced us with an intrinsic ability to create. To design beauty from nothing. To write, to draw, to build, to sing and to dance for something and someone bigger than ourselves.
Leading operations, Kevin is crucial to the daily work of Yellowbox. He keeps our creative team smooth-running and productive, inspiring us on the daily.
Who’s the most memorable person you’ve ever met? Around these parts, it’s our guy Tres. An artist, designer and strategist (with a passion for the local church), he works closely with our creative team to make sure every project we tackle is simultaneously inspiring and unforgettable.
Tres reminds us to keep dreaming. And honestly, that’s more important every day for us, for you, and for the rest of the world. Here’s a tip from Tres: write your dreams down and say them out loud every morning.
Say hi to Alen!
There’s a lot going on at Yellowbox. We’ve got design and video and websites and photoshoots and social media and more. The list just goes on and on. To make things easier on our team (and to keep us sane), we have Renata leading the charge on project management.
She’s the most organized person in the world. She uses charts and programs and stuff, and actually plans out the future—it’s crazy. She gets things done, and we’re forever grateful for her talent.
Say hi to Nick!
Say hi to Alejandro!
Say hi to Ivan!
Day hi to Shawn!
Say hi to Gavin!
Say hi to the contractor dream team!