From one woman's promise to a whole community.

As Executive Director of Sister to Sister 2, Inc. I'm deeply committed to supporting others on their journey of healing and transformation. My expertise spans nonprofit management, data quality, financial reporting, funder relations, invoicing, forecasting, and comprehensive operational and administrative support. I am a proud former client of Sister to Sister 2, having once faced the devastating challenges of addiction, mental illness, and domestic violence. Through Serenity House, I experienced life-changing healing and support. For two years, I lived at Serenity House, gaining invaluable tools for recovery and personal growth. In January 2014, I made a life-altering decision to stay with the organization, not only as a participant but as a dedicated member of the team. I wanted to use the knowledge, skills, and resilience I had gained to help other women facing similar struggles. Sister to Sister 2 has not only changed my life—it is now my mission to help transform the lives of others.

Sherrol Gray is the Director of Client Services at Serenity House Oakland, with over 35 years of experience supporting individuals facing substance abuse, domestic violence, and trauma. Since joining in 2011, she has been a dedicated advocate, specializing in client needs assessment, case management, and connecting clients to vital resources including emergency shelter and long-term housing. Sherrol’s expertise includes program development, crisis intervention, counseling, housing case management, and benefits advocacy. She also serves as a trained Covered California Enrollment Counselor, providing culturally competent assistance for health coverage enrollment. Her comprehensive work ensures clients receive holistic support to rebuild their lives and achieve stability.

Diane White, the Director of the Substance Abuse Program at Serenity House, was born and raised in Oakland. Married for 40 years, she's a proud mother of two sons and grandmother to twelve. Her professional journey began as a corporate auditor in the federal government before she transitioned into counseling. Diane earned a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Doctorate in Christian Counseling. She is also board certified as a mental health coach. Along with her husband, she serves as a pastor at Tree of Life Restoration Ministries. She fulfills roles as a counselor, case manager, and instructor at its sister corporation, Extending A Hand Community Outreach Missions Inc. An accomplished author with three books to her name, Diane provides counseling and facilitates therapy groups at Sister to Sister 2 Inc.

Passionate about empowering women to reach their full potential, Nicole is a devoted advocate for female empowerment and self-discovery. With a deep-rooted faith in God, she believes in walking in alignment with her purpose and encouraging others to do the same. As a 'girl's girl,' she fosters supportive communities where women can thrive and shine in all aspects of life. In her role as the Project Manager for Serenity Wellness and Business, an entrepreneurial program tailored for women, she provides guidance and support for those starting or scaling their own ventures. Emphasizing the importance of self-care and wellness, she helps women find balance and fulfillment in both their personal and professional lives.

As Development Director, Valerie manages grant writing, donor relationships, and community partnerships to ensure Serenity House can continue to expand its life-changing programs. Throughout her life, she has nurtured a passion for women's empowerment, striving in big ways and small to shape a future where women everywhere can find healing, strength, and community. Bringing this personal philosophy to her work, Valerie plays an important role in realizing this future for Serenity House, and the lives yet to be welcomed by our doors. Valerie also works as a Realtor in the greater San Francisco Bay Area. She has helped families, young professionals, and seniors navigate buying and selling their homes for over 20 years.

Born into a loving family with a strong faith, Nicole's journey has been marked by resilience and service. Graduating in 1989, she embarked on a career at Tilden Career Community Academy, where she spent over two decades fostering success among students. In 1998, she married Rodney J. Gardner and together they raised four children, embracing many more through adoption and community support. Despite personal struggles, Nicole found redemption in overcoming alcohol addiction at Serenity House and now serves as their Outreach Coordinator, currently serving the unhoused community with a loving smile and an open heart, knowing that God spared her so she could help save other lives. Nicole has received several awards and recognitions for her work in the community and most recently has been featured on a panel with Congresswoman Barbara Lee, addressing the needs of the growing yet underrepresented unhoused community. As the President and CEO of Chi-Oak Love, the business she founded after completing Serenity House’s Wellness & Business entrepreneurial program, Nicole specializes in event planning to make special days truly memorable. Today, Nicole can be found anywhere service is needed. If there is a need, she will try to meet it. If there is a problem, she will work to find a solution. If life has taught her anything, she has learned that if there is an opportunity, take it.

Meet Paula Cook, Program Coordinator at Serenity House with over 13 years of experience. Paula's journey, marked by over 16 years of personal sobriety, fuels her genuine dedication to the program's success. As a living testament to the effectiveness of our program, she teaches the Relapse Prevention Class. Paula also does drug testing and works to support women with CPS cases. Her greatest satisfaction comes from aiding these women in reuniting with their children. “Understanding the needs and meeting the women where they’re at, is what makes our program so successful.” When not working at Serenity House, Paula serves as a Deacon and Leader at the Bay Area Christian Connection Church of Oakland, extending her care to the broader community.

I am a trauma-informed Domestic Violence Counselor and Case Manager with more than 30 years of experience in community advocacy and direct support services. As a survivor of community violence and the founder of VOICES of the Bay Area, I bring a deeply personal understanding to my work, grounded in compassion, cultural humility, and a commitment to client centered care. In my role, I support individuals and families impacted by domestic violence, human trafficking, intimate partner violence, and community trauma through crisis intervention, safety planning, resource navigation, and long-term stabilization. I believe in walking with clients through every step of their journey from surviving to thriving, ensuring they feel empowered, supported, and equipped with the tools needed to rebuild their lives. My mission is to provide trauma-responsive services that honor each person’s dignity, lived experience, and resilience, while fostering healing, hope, and long-term independence.

Jill Wideman serves as Chief People & Strategy Officer at Serenity House of Oakland, a nonprofit dedicated to transforming the lives of justice-involved and marginalized women. In her role, Jill leads organizational growth through strategic planning, operational development, and human resources leadership. Her work is centered on building systems that support sustainability while mentoring and coaching staff to thrive both personally and professionally. With over 25 years of experience in executive leadership, operations, and people development, Jill brings a powerful blend of business acumen, emotional intelligence, and mission-driven purpose. She is deeply committed to Serenity House’s holistic approach—helping women not just overcome their pasts, but equipping them with the tools, resources, and support they need to rebuild their lives with dignity and direction. A seasoned advisor and operator, Jill has held key leadership positions across nonprofit and private sectors, where she has shaped high-impact teams, built scalable processes, and guided organizational culture. Her ability to connect vision with execution makes her an invaluable partner in advancing Serenity House’s mission and the women it serves.

Albert brings with him over nine years of experience in accounting and finance. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of California, San Diego, and has worked across the private, government, and nonprofit sectors. Albert shares that he feels most connected to his work when supporting mission driven organizations that serve vulnerable communities—something that aligns beautifully with Serenity House’s values. Outside of work, Albert enjoys hiking with his chihuahua and exploring new Japanese restaurants.

Miguel Garibay serves as Board President at Serenity House Oakland, a vibrant community dedicated to fostering love, healing, and empowerment. Miguel brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in social service, non-profit management, fundraising, and development. His profound commitment to fostering positive change is at the heart of his work. With executive roles at Center Point, Building Opportunities for Self-Sufficiency (BOSS), and The Tortora Brayda Institute, Miguel has gained an in-depth understanding of the complexities and challenges faced by underserved communities but also in Organizational capacity building. This experience is invaluable to Serenity House as we embark on diverse initiatives designed to transform lives. Miguel’s strategic approach to problem-solving and his deep-seated passion for social justice are essential in guiding our projects to create a significant impact. Miguel’s expertise in financial stewardship ensures that Serenity House remains sustainable and effective in its mission. His insights into non-profit management and development strategies are critical in expanding our reach and deepening our impact in the community. Miguel eloquently sums up his commitment: “In every thread of our community fabric, there lies a story, a struggle, and a dream. At Serenity House, we don't just hear these stories; we become a part of them. My journey in social service has shown me the resilience and strength of women who, against all odds, continue to aspire and thrive. It's this unyielding spirit that drives my commitment to Serenity House. Here, we're not just supporting women; we're empowering them to weave their own destinies, one thread of love, healing, and empowerment at a time.” Miguel Garibay’s leadership and heartfelt dedication to Serenity House reflect their core values and aspirations. He is proud to serve as an integral part of this diverse sisterhood, committed to inspiring and leading towards a brighter and more empowered future.

With over two decades of culinary expertise, Satia is a gastronomy visionary and a philanthropic creative. At the core of her endeavors is FiftySevenNorth, a unique fusion of culinary art, music, and philanthropy, embodying the principle that true fulfillment comes from feeding the soul as well as the body. As the Marketing and Communications Manager for Building Opportunities for Self-Sufficiency (BOSS), Satia has been instrumental in initiatives like the BOSS' Food Run and BOSS' Black August Block Party, tackling the underlying issues of poverty, racialized injustices, and homelessness. SousSHE, a project dear to Satia's heart, aims to empower young Black girls and women through entrepreneurship and culinary arts, fostering wellness and creativity. As a fervent champion of community service and women's empowerment, Satia passionately dedicates her work at FiftySevenNorth, BOSS and SousSHE to these causes. Her commitment to sustainability and social responsibility shines through every aspect of her culinary ventures. In her pursuit, Satia focuses on amplifying the voices of the often unheard and overlooked, particularly women. SousSHE stands as a testament to this commitment, empowering young Black girls and women through entrepreneurship in culinary arts and beyond. These initiatives are more than mere business endeavors; they are platforms for advocacy and change. Satia's mission transcends traditional culinary boundaries. Her dedication spans over 30 years, focusing on civic engagement and the political education of marginalized communities. Her work is a celebration of community spirit and the unyielding power of women. She aims to leave an indelible mark that goes beyond the confines of the kitchen, touching lives and inspiring transformation.

Sarah Storelli serves as Amazon Web Services (AWS) Senior Worldwide Public Sector Marketing Leader focused on creating and driving the marketing strategy for senior executive engagement and thought leadership content. She is the creator, producer, & promoter of the vodcast, AWS Behind the Cloud (84M+ views), which showcases the personal stories of the global changemakers and pioneers who are making our world a better place. In addition, she serves as the Director of Marketing and Communications for the Women at AWS Bay Area Chapter. Previously, Sarah oversaw global marketing for AWS Public Sector Startups, AWS Partner Capacity and Capability, and cloud innovation and acceleration programs. Prior to AWS, Sarah oversaw global marketing, strategic partnerships, ecosystem marketing, and external communications as IBM Program Director and Chief Marketing Officer of Call for Code—the world’s largest tech for good initiative of its kind inspiring the 26-million worldwide developer community and problem solvers from 179 nations to use IBM tools and technologies to solve pressing societal and humanitarian issues. With a degree in English and Minor in Law and Society from Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, Sarah has more than a decade of experience in developing higher education programs and initiatives for all students and alumni. Her passion and knack for solving problems and making a positive difference has led to a life of service, including current roles: Member of the Cal Poly President’s Council of Advisors, Chair of the Cal Poly English Department Advisory Board, Board of Trustees of the Consumer Technology Association Foundation, Board of Directors for the World Institute on Disability and Center Point, Inc., and a trusted advisor to multiple start-ups. Sarah enjoys any opportunity to spend time with loved ones; advocate for all women and girls, mental health, and the Arts in STEAM; travel the globe; move the market; and help tilt the world in a more equitable direction.

I am Beverly Anne Chenier, I am 69 years young and retired. I was born in Lake Charles, Louisiana but I grew up in Texas, Southern California and the East Coast. My professional background is in administration and government. I worked for a law firm for fifteen (15) years. I left the law firm and became a contract compliance administrator for an engineering firm. I am a mother of three (3) adorable children and seven (7) amazing grandchildren!!! I have been an art teacher for Oakland Unified School District. I volunteer with some truly awesome people!!

A renowned, award-winning Information Technology business leader, Gina possesses a broad range of technology experience across public, private, non-profit, higher ed and startup sectors. She has successfully led IT organizations to implement innovative, business transformational solutions. Presently, Gina is the Founder and President of T5 Solutions Technology Consulting Services. Providing IT operational, strategic services and support tailored for organizations that support and enable the community. T5's mantra "...serving those who serve others..." is one that resonates throughout the industry. Wherein the mission is to ensure that ALL persons have access to technology that can help make their lives better. T5 also provides IT services across other business verticals...small business, local government, higher education and mid-sized corporations. Gina previously served as the Chief Technology Officer (CTO) for the City and County of San Francisco, and the CIO for the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (MUNI). Gina was selected as one of the Top 50 Women Business Leaders in San Francisco, ComputerWorld’s Premier 100 IT Leaders, AOTMP “Powerful Women in Tech” and also selected as one of the San Francisco Business Times 150 Most Influential Women in Business. Gina regularly participates as a featured or panel speaker on various technology topics. She has been published in several media outlets including Gary Beach's "The U.S. Technology Skills Gap", Oracle Profit Magazine, ComputerWorld, Power To-Fly, Government Technology, CIO magazine, BEQ Pride Magazine and others. Gina serves on the City of Oakland Privacy Advisory Commission and as a member of the Google U.S. Government Innovation Advisory Board, CinnamonGirls and other community based advisory boards.

Maria is a dynamic business consultant and entrepreneur with a rich background in international marketing, high-end fashion sales, and global business development. Currently based in Santa Cruz, CA, she serves as Managing Director of Seascape Capital Partners, a forward-thinking consultancy that blends cutting-edge technology with strategic advisory services. With career roots that span luxury fashion, specialty foods, and global commerce, Maria has worked across the U.S., Europe, Asia, and Latin America. Her journey—from purveying couture to advising major ventures —reflects her passion for innovation, aesthetics, and meaningful impact. A stage 4 breast cancer survivor, Maria brings deep empathy, resilience, and authenticity to her philanthropic work. She is especially passionate about women’s empowerment and health equity. At Serenity House, she channels her business acumen and creative spirit into supporting transformative programs that help women reclaim their lives. In her free time, Maria enjoys traveling through Europe and Asia with her partner, transforming real estate, and doting on her beloved rabbit, Clover.

Risha Tyagi is a global communications leader with more than nine years of experience shaping strategic PR, executive visibility, and media relations across the technology, education, and healthcare sectors. In her current role as Senior Manager of Corporate Communications at Adobe, she drives strategic communications for the company's financial performance and key partnerships. Previously, Risha served as Senior Manager of Global Corporate Communications at Udemy, where she led international campaigns that elevated the company's brand, expanded its global reach, and highlighted innovative products and strategic partnerships. Risha holds an M.S. in Public Relations from Boston University, a B.A. in Economics (Honors) from the University of Delhi, and an Advanced Diploma in Mandarin from the Beijing Language and Culture University. She brings a deep commitment to storytelling, community impact, and equity-driven leadership to the Serenity House Board.

Adrienne King has a financial advisory practice based in Irvine, California. She specializes in helping individuals, families, and businesses build financial clarity and long-term security through education-driven planning. Adrienne brings a deeply personal commitment to mental health advocacy. After the loss of her brother to suicide, she became passionate about expanding access to compassionate, stigma-free mental health support. Her perspective bridges financial well-being and emotional health, with a focus on empowering individuals to navigate life’s most challenging moments with dignity and support.