Our Talent
Ms. Zachary meets organizations where they are and helps them ignite and enact a broader, bolder mission-aligned vision of their role in community transformation. With more than 21 years as a CEO, Ms. Zachary’s leadership style combines her business and community acumen with her experience in and passion for health and human services and continues to create confidence in the many stakeholders needed to cultivate thriving collaborations. Since 2009, she helped the ACAM Network expand nonprofit organizational development by leading six initiatives with more than 650 projects in areas such as food security, organizational development, homelessness prevention, and health access, while developing more than $16.2M in resources to support them. She holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology and is experienced in strategic planning, program development and evaluation, nonprofit management, and developing public-private partnerships. She views nonprofit organizational development as key to growth and sustainability and as an essential component of grantmaking to ensure investments create lasting impact. She has served a diverse group of organizations, including both government and nonprofit and both direct service and intermediary.
Adriana Wilson, Greater Houston Opportunity Youth Collaborative (GHOYC) Managing Director
Adriana Wilson is the Greater Houston Opportunity Youth Collaborative (GHOYC) Managing Director. She leads a team of passionate individuals focused on driving the work of GHOYC and works as an advocate to foster positive outcomes for young adults disconnected from education and career pathways throughout the Gulf Coast region. Adriana is dedicated to the advancement of individuals from all backgrounds and has spent over 15 years contributing to the success of youth, young adults, adults, and families as they pursued higher education. She began in education as a tutor and was so inspired by the students she worked with she went on to become a college professor. Driven by a motivation to improve access to education opportunities, Adriana transitioned to working for education non-profits where she served in various roles collaborating across teams and with partners to expand and innovate programming and ensure program quality, collaboration, growth, and impact. Born and raised in California, Adriana moved to Houston in 2009 to attend the University of Houston and is now proud to call Houston her home. She holds a B.A. in Sociology from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and an M.A. in Sociology from the University of Houston. Adriana is passionate about fostering access, equity, growth, and prosperity for all and is honored to be part ACAM, an organization that does that in so many ways.
Billy Reddick, Workforce Network Optimization Director
“All things are difficult before they are easy.” – Thomas Fuller
In January 2024, Billy Reddick assumed the role of Workforce Network Optimization Director at ACAM, bringing with him a rich background of 15 years in Workforce Development. His extensive experience spans across three different states—Oklahoma, Florida, and Texas. With a proven track record, Billy has successfully led teams ranging from a robust 60+ staff members to more intimate groups of three.
Billy holds a master’s degree in Public Administration from Florida A&M University (FAMU) and a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Bacone College. Beyond his professional achievements, Billy is a devoted father to his son, Braylon, whom he actively supports in football and basketball pursuits. As an assistant basketball coach for Braylon’s AAU team, the Houston Rebels Elite 2027, Billy extends his passion for sports beyond the sidelines.
When not immersed in impacting lives or coaching, Billy indulges his curiosity by delving into research to expand his knowledge in leadership and finances. His commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of young individuals and fostering the development of his team remains a driving force in both his personal and professional endeavors.
Sarah Malcolm, Resiliency Programs Director
Sarah Malcolm is ACAM’s Resiliency Programs Director. With over a decade of experience in data analysis and publicly funded grant program evaluation, Sarah oversees the data collection, reporting, and evaluation for ACAM’s Resiliency Programs. She coordinates regular technical assistance/continuous quality improvement activities with ACAM’s partners and vendors for programmatic and compliance purposes. Sarah completed her master’s degree in general experimental psychology at California State University Northridge, focusing her research on a figured world approach to identity and agency for college student athletes. She previously specialized in data evaluation and federal grant management at a mental health and substance abuse hospital.
Amber Gauff, Opportunity Youth Eligibility and Navigation Manager
Amber Gauff is the Opportunity Youth Navigation and Eligibility Manager at ACAM. “If serving is beneath you, leadership is beyond you” is one of her favorite quotes to maintain motivation. Amber eagerly accepts the task of overseeing the success of the ACAM network’s nonprofit organizations by supporting and maintaining continuous quality improvement within the Workforce Solutions Opportunity Youth Services Initiative. A Detroit, Michigan native, Amber has called Houston her home for the last six years and has dedicated this time to growing her professional career in Workforce Development. She has focused her service on those with criminal history and young adults ages 18-24. She advocates for professionalism first and leads by example, reminding herself of what she was like as a young adult and the resources she wishes she had at that age. She has dedicated her professional career to becoming a faithful youth services servant, mentor, and counselor. Amber was recently accepted into Louisiana State University’s Non-Profit Management Master’s program and looks forward to attaining more knowledge to further her passion for helping others.
Casey Davis, Workforce Compliance Manager
Casey Davis is the Workforce Compliance Program Analyst at ACAM. She is responsible for maintaining program delivery, compliance, and reporting consistency. Casey brings many years of knowledge in Workforce Development and all its funding streams. After spending ten years in the field, Casey decided to continue her education and obtained her bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Sam Houston State University. While at SHSU, her love of assisting people continued as an Academic Advisor and then she returned to Workforce Development several years later. Casey’s philosophy can be summed up by a quote: “If you are fortunate to have the opportunity, it is your duty to make sure other people have options as well.”
Camille Serelus, GHOYC Program Manager
Camille is serves as the GHOYC Program Manager at ACAM. Camille Serelus, MPH, manages several reconnection strategies aimed at supporting opportunity youth as they access work and educational resources. She comes to ACAM with a background in workforce development. She has held positions in higher education supporting student’s wellness and developing advising programs. Her experience includes managing and scaling a workforce training program in Cambridge, MA that trained & upskilled research associates for entry-level jobs in biotechnology. Driven by a passion for social mobility, Camille believes that access to education and employment opens doors to limitless possibilities. She earned her BA in Human Services from Northeastern University and her MPH from Boston University, specializing in program design, monitoring, and evaluation.
Cornelius Canty, Accounting and Compliance Manager
Cornelius is the Accounting and Compliance Manager at ACAM. Cornelius Canty comes to ACAM with a background of accounting and over 12 years of providing financial services to clients. His career has been marked by his ability to improve financial processes and assist clients reach their financial goals with strategic planning and keen analysis. Cornelius joined ACAM because of his commitment to help underserved individuals and his desire to make a positive impact in the community. Working with ACAM is honestly a dream come true for Cornelius as he loves purposeful work, and this organization allows him to assist others achieve their goals and succeed in life. Cornelius has received his bachelor’s degree in accounting, worked within a CPA firm and has numerous years of leading accounting teams. As an accountant, he has developed a robust knowledge in financial reporting, auditing and budget analysis with an excellent audit rating.
Jayda Martinez, Public Benefits Application Assistance Manager
Jayda Martinez, MPH (she/her/hers) is the Public Benefits Application Assistance Manager at ACAM. She earned her BS in Public Health from the University of Houston and her MPH in Health Education and Promotion from UTHealth – School of Public Health. Her professional experience helped her develop a robust background in health disparities research, real-world application of health education and promotion methodology, research administration, and program management. First and foremost, Jayda will always be a public health advocate who will vouch for underserved communities and help advance healthy equity. She is committed to improving access to affordable healthcare and housing; mitigating the substance use disorders; and enforcing homelessness diversion. She considers her most significant accomplishment to be collaborating directly with her community and conducting health education outreach. In Jayda’s eyes, there is nothing is more important than listening and understanding your community’s perspective in any given situation. With this, Jayda aims to integrate her public health passions into her role as a Public Benefits Application Assistance Manager, where she will aid qualified community-based service providers with expanding access to public benefit programs. In her spare time, she volunteers with various non-profits in Houston; and she enjoys reading and hiking.
Alondra Andrade, Naturalization Program Manager
Alondra Andrade is ACAM’s Naturalization Program Manager. Her commitment to empowering immigrant communities stems from her experience as a first-generation Mexican American who witnessed the challenges of navigating the immigration system in the United States. She has extensive experience working with immigrant communities, including volunteering with the Young Center for Immigrant Children’s Rights, and working at the Tahirih Justice Center. At Tahirih, Alondra focused on creating the organization’s first community engagement program. She began her time at Tahirih as a temporary office administrator, handling intakes, referrals, and financial reports. After graduating with her undergraduate degree from the University of St. Thomas, she was hired as the Community Engagement Coordinator and later promoted to Senior Community Engagement Coordinator. Alondra graduated with her master’s degree in social work, with a macro concentration, from the University of Houston in May 2024. In August 2024, she received the Samantha Dean Rising Star Award from the Texas Association Against Sexual Assault for her community engagement work with immigrant survivors of gender-based violence. Alondra is responsible for developing organizational and network capacity to increase the number of eligible individuals who can apply for citizenship in the U.S.
Amanda Renee Parker, Development Coordinator
Amanda Renee Parker is the Development Coordinator at ACAM. She has 12 years of experience in project development, communications, fundraising, and event production. A graduate of St. John’s University, she has worked with organizations such as NBCUniversal, Alpha Sigma Alpha Foundation, Fox Sports 1, Austin Film Society, and Louis Black Productions. Passionate about uplifting communities, Amanda managed an initiative to educate dozens of socially conscious documentary filmmakers across the state of Texas about project management, grant research, campaign strategy, and marketing. At ACAM, she supports ACAM’s strategic direction by convening Network Executive Leaders and councils, advancing communication efforts, and offering programmatic support. Amanda aims to promote opportunities for collaboration within the region and develop a deeper sense of community amongst our network partners.
Zoe Cagan, Training and Development Coordinator
Zoe Cagan is the Training and Development Coordinator at ACAM and manages the Training & Networking Program. She completed a Master’s degree and Graduate Diploma from the New England Conservatory of Music where she earned two awards given to a single distinguished student for their contributions to the life, education, and fellowship of the school. With a background in music performance, concert curation, training, and events coordination, Zoe understands the importance of collaboration and the power of bringing people together. Zoe’s goal at ACAM is to organize exciting and informative training sessions and fulfill her love of learning alongside the ACAM Network.
Jawad Taheri, Program Evaluation Analyst II
Jawad Taheri is an accomplished economist with over five years of experience in economic and financial analysis, project, and grant management. Currently serving as a Program Evaluation Analyst II at the Alliance of Community Assistance Ministries, Inc (ACAM), Jawad specializes in data-driven solutions, post-award services, and compliance with federal grant requirements. He provides technical assistance to staff and contracted service providers involved in grant-funded homelessness and eviction prevention programs. Prior to ACAM, Jawad held key positions in governmental and financial institutions. He served as an Economic and Financial Analyst at the Ministry of Finance in Afghanistan, preparing and analyzing financial reports, and managing grants. He also contributed to monetary policy at the Central Bank of Afghanistan and gained experience in financial reporting and transaction review at Aziz Bank. Jawad had been previously engaged in a PhD research project in Development Economics at ENS Paris-Saclay University, France, where he also obtained his MSc. in Economics. He also holds an MA in Economic Governance and Development from the OSCE Academy in Kyrgyzstan, and a BA in Economics with a minor in Business Administration from the American University of Central Asia in Kyrgyzstan.
Azalea Kitchen, Network Performance Coordinator
Azalea Kitchen is the Network Performance Coordinator at ACAM. Azalea comes to ACAM with a strong background in accounting and nonprofit. After pursuing seven years in accounting and nonprofit management, Azalea decided to prioritize her love for people by pivoting to a HR centered role. Growing up in a small, impoverished town, Azalea understands the importance of providing resources to the underserved. Azalea oversees the daily operations at ACAM and supports the financial department. Azalea joined ACAM because the mission aligns with her personal values, and goals. Working in nonprofit has given Azalea a sense purpose and personal fulfillment. She looks forward to broadening her experience in nonprofit and continuing to learn and grow within the sector.
Candice Mouton, Opportunity Youth Eligibility & Navigation Specialist
Candice Mouton serves as the Eligibility & Navigation Specialist at ACAM, where her primary role involves recruiting and enrolling Opportunity Youth aged 18-24. A professional with over ten years of experience in case management, social services, program coordination and advocacy in the nonprofit and profit arenas, Candice plays a pivotal role in guiding enrolled youth towards success. As a Texas born, single mother of one, Candice understands the importance of serving young adults with barriers, fostering empathy, relatability, inspiration, and resourcefulness to empower young adults to overcome obstacles and achieve their full potential. Candice’s personal mantra, “Your attitude determines your altitude, “has not only been a catalyst in her personal life but been a powerful reminder for young adults to cultivate a positive mindset, embrace challenges, and strive for personal and professional growth to unlock their full potential and soar to greater heights in life. Candice studied at Texas Southern University and has plans to further her education to expand her knowledge to better serve and impact daily lives.
Astrid Lopez, Opportunity Youth Eligibility & Navigation Specialist
Astrid Lopez is a dedicated professional, holding a Bachelor’s degree in Healthcare Administration from PIMA Medical Institute. With a robust background as a vet tech for five years, I made a deliberate shift, channeling my expertise into a more impactful realm—dedicated to shaping the future of our youth for the better. My commitment to making a difference is unwavering, as I bring a distinctive blend of healthcare administration knowledge and genuine compassion to our mission. Fueled by a passion for creating a lasting impact, I am devoted to contributing to the creation of a brighter future for the next generation.”
Sid Short, GHOYC Outreach Coordinator
Sid Short serves as the Coordinator for the Greater Houston Opportunity Youth Collaborative (GHOYC). In this role, he leads the Young Adult Action Advisory Council, engaging monthly with youth from across Houston. Additionally, he assists in coordinating the GHOYC stakeholder meetings and handles internal GHOYC processes. Sid is passionately committed to the belief that every young adult deserves the chance to pursue their aspirations. Sid is known for his ability to meet youth where they are, understanding their unique circumstances and needs. He approaches his work with a deep sense of gratitude, recognizing the potential in every young person he encounters. A cum laude graduate of Lawrence University in Wisconsin, Sid holds a B.A. in Innovation & Entrepreneurship as well as French. He brings over five years of non-profit experience to his position. His previous role as a project manager for KidsGive saw him overseeing the construction of a junior secondary school and implementing an eye examination program in Sierra Leone. These experiences profoundly influenced his dedication to investing in young people, a mission he continues to champion with opportunity youth in Houston.
Sharmente Alexandre, AmeriCorps VISTA
Sharmente Alexandre serves as the AmeriCorps VISTA for the Greater Houston Opportunity Youth Collaborative (GHOYC) at ACAM. She joined GHOYC to channel her passion for administration, service, and advocacy into capacity-building efforts. A recent graduate of the University of Central Florida, she holds a bachelor’s degree in Integrated Business with a focus on Human Resources. Sharmente comes to ACAM with over a decade of professional experience in human resources and customer service. She is dedicated to creating workplaces where individuals are evaluated solely on their qualifications, promoting fairness and inclusivity free from bias. One of her guiding principles is a quote by Jodi Picoult: “Equality is treating everyone the same. But equity is taking differences into account, so everyone has a chance to succeed.” For Sharmente, GHOYC is a place to help create pathways to success for young adults aged 16-24 who are disconnected from work or school, which she finds deeply fulfilling. As GHOYC positively impacts her life, she is committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of many young people.
Consulting Team
Under the leadership of ACAM’s CEO, board and staff, ACAM has assembled a highly skilled and specialized group of consultants to advise and support ACAM and its partners, positioning ACAM to operate with maximum effectiveness and efficiency.
Tina Council, I Am Pleased Development Center
Tina Z. Council is the Owner and Chief Consultant of the I Am Pleased Development Center, a Texas-based consultancy dedicated to developing individuals and organizations to their full potential. With more than 30 years in the finance, banking, real estate, fundraising and nonprofit sectors, Ms. Council has provided ACAM project support, project evaluation and organizational development assessments since 2009.
Valerie Ellis, Ellis Consulting
Valerie Ellis brings more than 15 years of fund development experience to ACAM. Ms. Ellis was the Associate Director of ACAM before she became a consultant. As an independent consultant, Ms. Ellis provides customized services for a wide variety of nonprofit organizations, helping them with development planning, public and private grant proposals and reports, organization and program budgets, corporate and foundation relationships, annual campaigns, individual donor strategies and program evaluation.
Wendy Ballard, WOW ME Consulting
Wendy Ballard is Owner of WOW ME Consulting, a strategic communications firm specializing in social media, brand awareness and constituent engagement. She has nearly 20 years of restaurant, retail and marketing experience with Caesar’s Palace, Landry’s, Marble Slab Creamery, Inc., Starbucks, Coach and the University of Houston. Ms. Ballard is active in her field and in the community, serving in the University of Houston Alumni Association, Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Merchandise Committee and as a Member and Speaker for the Council for Advancement and Support of Education. Beginning in 2017 she has managed ACAM’s social media accounts including Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.
Abi Bankole, Bankole, Okoye & Associates PC
Abi Bankole is the fiscal consultant for ACAM’s Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) since it was first awarded in 2014. He is extensively experienced and knowledgeable about the nonprofit industry with more than 30 years combined experience in private practice and in industry.
