Sydney
Youth Leader Alumni
Sydney Allen is a 19 year old Vallejo Project youth leader. She is an aspiring Filmmaker and is committed to living a sustainable and ethical lifestyle.
Aaron
Youth Leader Alumi
Fernando Prado is a 19 year old Vallejo project youth leader. He has a passion for carpentry and building.
Xochitl
Youth Leader Alumni
Donavon is a youth leader with a passion for sustainability and makes every effort to be a good stuard of our envirmonment
"Vallejo Project taught me how to listen better"
​
- Wellness program participant
Who we are
Vallejo Project brings together volunteers to enhance student success through peer learning, linking young people to enrichment and development opportunities across generations in areas like communication, trades and wellness.
Our core mission is to disrupt the cycle of violence and economic struggle that affects our students, enabling parents to raise their children in environments where they can truly thrive.
​
Vision
Empowered youth, engaged in service, realizing their full potential.
Mission
Vallejo Project empowers young adults (16-35) with resources, mentorship, and leadership development to foster independence and transform our city.
Khariyyah Shabazz
Director
Khariyyah, has 16 years of experience in youth development, environmental justice, and community engagement, and is dedicated to transforming communities through planning and partnerships. Ms. Shabaaz has been recognized for her impactful leadership.
Orobosa Olotu
Youth Leader
known affectionately as Bosa, embarked on his artistic journey at the age of 5. Born on the autism spectrum, Bosa initially found solace and expression through his art, using it as a means to communicate in his non-verbal years. Over time, his passion for creating art not only helped him find his voice but also nurtured his talent and creativity.
Adjoa McDonald
Founder, Executive Directore and Chair
Adjoa is a long-time Vallejo resident and has been an urban educator for thirteen years. She is a credentialed administrator and has a Masters in Educational Leadership.
Lifetime entrepreneur that has decided to spend the next chapter her life devoted to helping our young adults achieve a higher quality of living
Housing Coordinator
Benny Maurera
Director, Secretary
Born and raised in Vallejo, Benny is a true multi-talented professional with expertise in design, urban agriculture, filmmaking, and light carpentry. He is currently contributing his skills at SolTrans.
Hugh Kinniburgh
Hugh is a filmmaker, musician , artist , technician and local business owner. Co founder of RCTV Studios, a Bay Area production company and supporter of community based organizations.
Advisor Filmmaking
Paul Kirsch
Advisor
Paul is a Vallejo Teacher who has a background in filmmaking, gardening and model boat repair. He has participated in grant writing and reading for many years. Paul is a responsible Vallejo resident who is committed to making a difference.
Ray Bernardes
Executive Director of the Christian Help Center one of the pillars in housing the homeless and a pastor of Lordship Church. Pastor Ray also founded the Global Center for Sussess.
Business Advisor
Brigette Edwards
Retired WIOA case manager in sacramento of 30 years.
Case Manager
Dr. John Edwards
Dr. John is an experienced thought leader in the public education sector. John has worked with public education policies in statewide DEI initiatives, and with local, state, and federal legislators on supporting public education initiatives.
DIrector
Dr. Thomas Snyder
Dr. Snyder is a retired urologist and naval officer. In retirement, he works on a history of the first Navy’s first west coast hospital, on Mare Island.
Historical Advisor
Jocylen Merkel
Jocelyn has 20+ years of experience managing marketing/advertising projects - Jocelyn is now proud to be serving Vallejo as a local elementary school teacher
Director, Treasurer
Kweku Middleton
Kweku is project lead for construction at the Sac Street Garden and resident trades expert for training and youth experience. He is passionate about trades and a point of contact for careers in the industry.
Carpentry Advisor
Kortney Robison (Proestler) · Lead Mental Health Clinician at Effective School Solutions · Mental Health Clinician for At Risk Youth at Various Places
Advisor
Gail Robles
Gail Robles is a Vallejo native and special education teacher who has worked in a variety of school models, including the public and non-public school sectors, as well as charter and private schools.
Special Education Advisor
Erik Adigard
Erik is a communication designer and educator in the San Francisco Bay Area. He cofounded M-A-D, a Berkeley-based design firm, and is a former design contributor to Wired magazine.
Founding Advisor
Alex Lindsey
Alex Ben Lindsay is an American computer graphics and video production specialist. He is also the founder of the Pixel Corps and dvGarage which were both companies involved with computer graphics
Advisor
Carlton Gill
Executive/Entrepreneur/Devops /Emerging Technology Architect · Experience · Volunteer Experience · Financial Licenses & Certifications.