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.
Orobosa
Youth Leader Alumni
Bosa, a youth leader for four years, began his artistic journey at age 5, using art to express himself as a non-verbal child on the autism spectrum.
"Being part of the Vallejo Project helped me slow down, reflect, and really connect with others—it's changed how I show up in the world."
— Wellness Program Participant
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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.
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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.
Dr. Stephen Betz
Interim Executive Director
Long time Vallejo leader, Dr. Stephan Betz Co Founded Vallejo Teaching Artist and has served Solano County at the highest levels. Dr. Betz is an expert at compliance and systems.
Adjoa McDonald
Founder, 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.
Gonzalo Romo
Gonzalo Romo is a thoughtful leader rooted in community, known for his steady presence, sharp listening, and deep commitment to local solutions. With a decade of experience supporting nonprofits and public institutions, Gonzalo helps organizations grow with integrity and impact.
Development
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.
Keith Ali
Keith Ali is a dedicated local volunteer committed to promoting youth health and wellness and making a meaningful impact in his community.
Volunteer
Burrell Alford
Vice Chair
Raised in Vallejo, Burrell is a veteran and retired industrial worker. He has made a commitment to give back to his community by mentoring youth at Vallejo Project.
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
Stephan Muerle
Steve is a licensed General Contractor who mentors youth. From kitchens to fences, he shares hands-on experience in everything from electrical work to flooring.
General Contractor
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
Lilibeth Pinpin is the former Director at the Solano County Office of Education, where she led innovative programs focused on educational equity and community engagement. She currently serves as an adjunct professor at Touro University California, preparing the next generation of educators and leaders.
Director
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.