ABOUT US

For more than 20 years, notMYkid has been providing youth, families, schools, and community partners with high impact prevention education and early intervention programs. Fast forward 22 years and we can proudly share that our organization has successfully served over 3 million individuals and continues to reach over 100,000 youth and adults each year.

Following two decades of service, our nonprofit has completely transformed to meet the unique needs facing youth and their families by providing a full continuum of life-saving prevention, early intervention, behavioral health support, and wellness programs. Our team of prevention and behavioral health experts are dedicated to helping youth overcome challenges during their most vulnerable years. Programs are traditionally delivered in schools, community organizations, at the workplace, and direct to devices via our Podcast and webinars.

With the arrival of a global pandemic, it has not been business as usual and our commitment to quality and inclusivity led to a swift transition to virtual programs and expansion into treatment, peer support, and well-being programs to meet the urgent and rapidly changing needs of families.

Our array of programs and trainings focus on substance use, vaping, bullying, relationships, trauma, body image, mental health, and internet safety for youth, adults, and the community at-large.

We strive to realize the following outcomes through our trauma-informed programming:

• Build knowledge and social/emotional competencies to enhance resiliency, confidence, and character; and
• Educate youth and adults on where to go and how to ask for help if they or someone they know is struggling with a mental or behavioral health issue.

OUR VISION & HISTORY

notMYkid has a vision that every kid will have the knowledge and confidence to reach their full potential through positive life choices. Steve and Debbie Moak founded the organization in 1999 after battling the substance use addiction of their teenage son. The Moaks’ first-hand experiences inspired them to develop notMYkid and bravely share their journey and help communities eliminate the stigma that fuels addiction, mental illness, and suffering in silence. Their personal story fueled a movement that embraced prevention as the path to saving lives and restored hope in others that recovery is possible.

OUR BEHAVIORS

SAFETY

We ensure physical, emotional, and psychological safety for everyone through a welcoming, non-judgmental atmosphere and positive interpersonal interactions.

COMPASSION

We welcome all, we meet all people where they are at, and act with empathy and sensitivity.

INTEGRITY

We act with fairness, honesty, transparency, and commitment.

COLLABORATION

We work as a team and build on each other’s strengths, both within our organization and with our community and school partners.

INCLUSIVITY

We honor ALL people and recognize their unique perspectives, contributions, and experiences.

POSITIVITY

We approach our work with optimism and believe in a purpose or meaning greater than oneself.

RESPECT

We treat our clients, partners, and ourselves with mutual respect and sensitivity.

ACCOUNTABILITY

We hold ourselves and others responsible for doing what we say we will do.

LEADERSHIP

Co-Founders

Steve and Debbie Moak

Co-Founder

Steve and Debbie's Bio

Mark Rohde, PH.D.

Co-Founder and Psychologist

Mark's Bio

Leadership Team and Administration

Kristen Polin, MAEd

Chief Executive Officer

Kristen's Bio

Kiera Allen

Chief Financial Officer

Kiera's Bio

Sarah Grado

Chief Program Officer

Sarah's Bio

Ahriza Martinez

Chief Operating Officer

Ahriza's Bio

Loretta Mueffelman, LPC, CCTP

Clinical Director

Loretta's Bio

Gail Malito

Director of Compliance & Standards

Gail's Bio

Elena Zavalza

Program Director

Elena's Bio

Heidi Mims

Accounting Manager

Prevention and Behavioral Health Team

Meleni Gonzales, MSPC, LAC

Behavioral Health Professional (BHP) Clinician

Meleni's Bio

Jeff Horne, LMSW, BHP, MSW, IHC

Behavioral Health Professional (BHP) Clinician

Jeff's Bio

Julie Wilson, MC MFCT

Behavioral Health Technician (BHT) Clinician

Bre Guzman

Prevention Manager

Breanna's Bio

Kaitlyn Dimech

Grants & Contracts Manager

Kaitlyn's Bio

Wendy Gustafson

Regional Program Manager

Wendy's Bio

Julio Saran

Project REWIND Manager

Julio's Bio

Ashley Moore

Prevention Specialist

Ashley's Bio

Dustin Gill

Community Liaison

Nicole Johnson

Program Coordinator

Nicole's Bio

Obinna Uzoekwe

Prevention Specialist

Obinna's Bio

Allison Tobón

Community Coordinator

Allison's Bio

Amy Le

Peer Support Specialist

Amy's Bio

Marcos Guzman

Prevention Specialist

Marcos's Bio

Erica Cole

Community Coordinator

Erica's Bio

Rey Rodriguez

Peer Support Specialist/BHT

Danielle Flowers

Community Coordinator

Danielle's Bio

Ezequiel "Zeke" Arias

Care Coordinator

Ezequiel's Bio

Maggie Reichler

Peer Support Specialist/BHT

Maggie's Bio

Cole Nochumson

Prevention Specialist

Cole's Bio

External Consultant Team

Joronda Montaño, MPA ACPP IV

Consultant Coach

Joronda's Bio

Lane Krumpos

Program Facilitator

Ohad Lowenstein

Program Facilitator

Board of Directors

Duke Schwartz, Board Chairman

Schwartz Insurance Agency

Duke's Bio

Mark Goldberg - Secretary

Goldberg Family Foundation

Mark's Bio

Emily Anne Gullickson

CEO of A for Arizona - Treasurer

Emily's Bio

Brett Johnson

Snell & Wilmer

Brett's Bio

Michelle Siwek

Owner- Scottsdale Recovery Center.

Michelle's Bio

M. Zuhdi Jasser, MD

President, Jasser Center for Comprehensive Care

Zuhdi's Bio

Steven Lewis, CFP

SVP, Wells Fargo Advisors

Steven's Bio

Jeffrey Siegel, MD - Pediatrician

North Scottsdale Pediatrics

Jeffery's Bio

David Weinstock, J.D., Ph.D.

Clinical Psychologist

David's Bio

Melissa Ahearn

VP, Grey Street Capital

Melissa's Bio

Mark Blair, MD

Dermatologist, Paradise Valley Dermatology

Mark's Bio

Kelley Carter

Realtor, Kelley's Fine Homes

Kelly's Bio

Ed Fitzgerald

Regional Sales Execute, PHH Mortgage

Ed's Bio

Oliver Keller

Partner, Beacons Capital Group and Founder, The Missing Link Group

Oliver's Bio

Emeritus Board

Mark Rohde, PH.D.

Co-Founder and Psychologist

Mark's Bio

Debbie Moak

Co-Founder

Debbie's Bio

notMYkid is an equal opportunity employer.
We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an
inclusive environment for all employees

HOW YOU CAN HELP

Every day, our children make potentially life-or-death choices related to topics such as suicide, substance use, digital behaviors, body image, bullying, and dating violence. So many of them suffer in silence and all too often, families also struggle in silence.

You can help us make the difference through proactive and highly effective programming.

Your tax-deductible support is crucial to our mission to inspire positive life choices and help our youth arrive to adulthood, healthy and whole.

Donate Now

Steve grew up in Kentucky and attended Eastern Kentucky University. After graduating and marrying Debbie, he began a business career with stints at Avon Products, NCR Corporation, and American Express. In 1988 Steve moved his family from Ohio to Phoenix to start a company with his college roommate. The company, ProMark One grew quickly to over 2500 employees and was sold in 1996 to a venture firm in CA. After selling, Steve began his philanthropic efforts as a founder of Social Venture Partners, a member of the United Way board, and became active in Young Life. In 2000 after watching family members struggle with substance abuse, Steve and his wife Debbie founded notMYkid. In 2004 in an effort to further notMYkid’s drug prevention program Steve purchased First Check, a retail drug testing company. First Check then gave away thousands of drug test kits promoting notMYkid’s drug prevention program. In 2006 Steve was appointed to the White House Drug free commission under President Bush. Debbie is committed to instilling a proactive approach to teen and parenting issues by raising awareness through educational programs. She is a much sought after speaker who has traveled internationally, speaking to thousands of teens and parents about her personal experience with substance abuse in her own family, as well as others she has reached through notMykid. A graduate from Northern Kentucky University, Debbie holds a dual certificate in Education and Special Education. After graduation, she taught elementary school for 10 years and cites her experience and work with notMYkid as her “best classroom”. Debbie resides in Arizona with her husband Steve of 36 years. Although having raised her family, it is with the great support of her husband, two grown sons, and her daughter-in-law who motivate her to accomplish more on behalf of today’s youth.

Dr. Rohde graduated summa cum laude from Arizona State, did graduate work at ASU, University of Oxford (England), and the University of Northern Colorado, and was a Mott Foundation Fellow. He holds a Ph.D. in Psychology from the Union Graduate School/Union Institute and additionally completed three years of training with the Post-Graduate Institute for Family Therapy. He most often works with children, adolescents, and families and frequently employs a combination of individual, family, and group psychotherapy. Mark holds Diplomat status with the American Board of Assessment Psychology and has specialty certification in addictions treatment from the American College of Professional Psychology. He is a former teacher who has held administrative positions at a private school, an addictions treatment center, a community mental health center, and a residential treatment program. Mark has been recognized for Distinguished Contributions to Psychology by the Arizona Psychological Association where he has served on the Governing Council.

Kristen Polin has over 25 years of experience in nonprofit management and returned to notMYkid as the Chief Executive Officer in February of 2019, following a one year hiatus to serve as Chief Operating Officer for ShareTek. Kristen originally joined the notMYkid team in July 2015 as the Vice President of Programs where she developed and expanded programs across Arizona to address early intervention gaps for youth and families and deliver a more responsive prevention solution for schools and the community-at-large. Fast forward to 2020, Kristen led notMYkid through one of its most challenging years with the arrival of the pandemic and swiftly pivoted all programs to the virtual space and led the charge to expand services to address the urgent mental health needs of youth and their families. In less than 6 months, notMYkid successfully obtained their license from the Arizona Department of Health Services to operate an outpatient treatment center and continues to expand services to offer peer support and mentoring programs for struggling children, teens, and young adults. COVID pushed the organization in its twentieth year of service to become a full continuum provider of prevention, early intervention, and treatment services. She is proud to lead a dynamic team of prevention and treatment professionals that are developing and implementing high impact programs designed to inspire and empower youth and families. Kristen works in partnership with the notMYkid Board of Directors to oversee the strategic direction of our mission-driven programs locally and nationally. As CEO, Kristen is also focused on developing strategic partnerships with healthcare institutions, corporations and small business, and like-minded nonprofit organizations who value the impact of prevention efforts while ensuring access to care for all who struggle with behavioral and mental health challenges.

Prior to notMYkid, Kristen worked for Community Bridges Inc. (CBI) for over 17 years. As CBI’s Vice President of Community Relations; Development, she was responsible for all agency public affairs, community development projects and prevention efforts throughout the State of Arizona. Her passion for this work comes from her own personal experience with a substance use disorder and fierce determination to reduce stigma that keeps people from getting the help they need. She is an active member of the recovery community and meet individuals, families and communities where they are on the continuum of prevention, early intervention, treatment and recovery. Kristen holds a Master of Arts in Education Degree in Program Management from the University of Phoenix and a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Health Promotion; Disease Prevention Studies from Ithaca College in New York.

When she is not living out her passion for the heart work at notMYkid, you can find Kristen on the move with her two sons, hiking, practicing hot yoga, or enjoying downtime with her husband Jon and their rescue pup, Oreo.

Kiera Allen, Chief Financial Officer (CFO), joined notMYkid in July of 2019. Kiera brings over 30 years of financial and administrative management experience in the private, public, and non-profit sectors. In her role as CFO, Kiera oversees all fiscal and accounting functions of the organization, oversight of human resources, and serves as liaison to the Board of Directors. Before joining the Executive Team at notMYkid, Kiera started her career as a Tax Consultant at Price Waterhouse, worked as a Tax Manager at Dreyer, Edmonds and McGlone, then as a Senior Manager at American Express. After relocating from Los Angeles to Scottsdale in 2001, Kiera was the Accounting Manager at Barness Papas Investments. In 2008, Kiera became the Owner and Operator of Save and Gave, LLC, an online sales company, and most recently, worked as the Manager of Finance and Operations at Fountain Hills Theater, where she was responsible for all fiscal, budgetary, and organizational operations. While in her role at FHT, Kiera gained extensive knowledge of Board Governance, and non-profit policies and procedural operations. Kiera lives in Scottsdale with her husband, David, her five children, and her ridiculously pampered dog, Winnie.

Sarah Grado has been working in adolescent behavioral health since 2009 and has been employed with notMYkid for over 13 years. As our Chief Programs Officer, Sarah leads our state-wide program teams, provides oversight and administration of 3M in grants and contracts, and provides vision for sustainable growth. With partners all over the state, Sarah ensures that our connections to coalitions and other community groups get the support and services needed to build strong communities with notMYkid’s help.

Sarah is an international speaker who shares her inspirational story to youth, parents, and professionals. Over the years, Sarah has facilitated over 500 presentations reaching over 75,000 youth and adults. Sarah is an alumni member ASU Lodestar Leadership Academy 2014-2015 class and holds certifications in Adolescent Brain Development, Trauma-Informed Care, and Adverse Childhood Experiences, safeTALK, and Mindful Schools. In 2020, Sarah received notMYkid’s employee of the year award in recognition for outstanding achievement.

Sarah lives in Florence with her husband and four wonderful boys. In her free time, she enjoys baking, mountain biking, playing video games, and having lazy pool days with her family.

Ahriza Martinez joined notMYkid in 2014 because she wanted to be a part an organization that positively impacted the lives of many people. As the Chief Operating Officer, she works behind the scenes to promote the essence of notMYkid across various platforms. She also manages notMYkid’s Family Navigator and Peer Support AmeriCorps program that supports building healthy futures of youth and families by partnering with schools and organizations to strengthen Maricopa County’s communities. She has a B.A. from Ashford University and before coming to notMYkid, Ahriza worked in several school settings for more than 10 years as a tutor, Teaching Assistant, and Administrative Assistant. Ahriza loves to volunteer, spending time with family and friends, and being a foodie explorer.

Loretta Mueffelman joined the notMYkid team in June of 2022 and serves as our Clinical Director of behavioral health programs. Loretta has over 10 years of mental health experience working with children, adolescents, and families who have experienced trauma in their lives. Loretta has experience working in direct outpatient and inpatient care settings along with other community-based partners. Loretta received her undergraduate from Arizona State University and her graduate from Argosy University with a degree in Clinical Mental Health and is a Licensed Professional Counselor. Loretta is a Certified Clinical Trauma Professional (CCTP) with training in different treatment modalities including Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, Sand Tray, Trust Based Relational Interventions, and the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics. Her passion is being part of a person's journey to healing and providing support for professionals in the field. Loretta spends her spare time with her two children and her husband watching movies and having dance parties.

Gail currently serves as notMYkid’s Director of Administration. She is responsible for ensuring that the notMYkid office and outpatient treatment center maintains a safe and efficient day-to-day operation. In addition, Gail assists with the administration of our clinical programs, and is responsible for Inbound Receivables, Donor Recognition, and Program Support. Gail graduated from the University of Arizona, and prior to raising her children, she spent many years as a paralegal. Gail and her husband, Jim, live in Scottsdale with their two children, Emily and James. When her children were younger, Gail enjoyed spending time volunteering at their schools as a member of several committees and as a room parent. Emily, recently graduated from Northern Arizona University with a B.A. in Psychology, cum laude, and James is currently a student at Northern Arizona University studying Hotel and Restaurant Management.

In her spare time, Gail enjoys traveling, listening o good music, and enjoying time spent with her family.

Elena Zavalza is the Program Director at notMYkid. She has experience working in the community since 2013 and has worked with various ages throughout her career. Elena utilized her bilingual abilities in infant mental health for 5 years, guiding parents and caregivers through their journey with their child or children with difficult behaviors with psychoeducation and evidence-based practice curriculum. She has also assisted in developing curriculum for programs to educate parents and caregivers on topics that consisted of brain development, ACEs, discipline, schedules and routines, and safety trainings. This program strengthened the parents’ and caregivers’ ability to appropriately respond to their children’s needs. Elena is an outgoing individual who thrives on collaboration and creating new partnerships in the community and delivering presentations to the partners and their members. Elena completed an internship with Candelen’s behavioral health that collaborated with the Arizona ACE’s Consortium. This included partnerships with schools throughout Maricopa County and delivered the training to help teachers understand and manage the big behaviors.

Elena has a bachelor’s degree in Sociology, and a master’s degree in Family and Human Development from ASU and will soon have her master’s in social work from Grand Canyon University. Elena loves learning and sharing her knowledge with others to help them thrive in their environment.

Circle of Security
Triple P Parenting: Level 4
Adult Mental Health First Aid
First Aid/CPR instructor
Fingerprint Clearance Card

Meleni Gonzales (She/her/hers) joined our notMYKid team in October of 2022. Meleni is an independent Professional Counselor (LPC) with experience working with children, adolescents, and adults who have experienced trauma, substance, and challenges with symptoms of mental health illness. Meleni is trained in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), Sand tray, and integrates various modalities that are tailored to the individuals and family’s unique needs. In addition, Meleni is certified in the Neurosequential Model of Therapeutics, a developmental and biological approach to organizing a child’s history of adverse experiences along with current functioning to support treatment interventions.

Meleni received her Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Argosy University, her Master’s in Professional Counseling from Grand Canyon University, and is currently working on her doctorate in psychology with an emphasis on cognition and instruction at Grand Canyon University. Meleni’s passion for learning and sharing with others can be experienced in and out of therapeutic sessions. Meleni provides dosing of psychoeducation to increase self-awareness of mind and body connections and strategies to support overall wellness. Meleni loves to learn, attend trainings, and in her personal time. Meleni loves to spend time with her family and friends. Meleni looks forward to finishing her dissertation and traveling.

Jeff Horne joined notMykid’s clinical team in July 2021 as a Licensed Master Social Worker. Additionally, Jeff is certified in Integrative Health and has worked with multiple populations in the behavioral health field that include, but are not limited to, crisis intervention, Veterans, adult SMI clients, homeless (men, women, and children), domestic violence victims, children, high risk teens, general substance abuse issues, and general mental health.

Jeff received his undergraduate and graduate degree in Social Work from Arizona State University. Before discovering the beautiful world of service through the field of social work, he received a certificate in Music Business and a degree in Graphic Design.

In his spare time, Jeff loves to spend time with his family. In particular, Jeff loves watching his daughter dance on her dance team, his son play club soccer, and going on adventures with his beautiful wife. When Jeff is alone, he loves reading books, watching sports, and listening to music.

Breanna (Bre) Guzman, a native of Phoenix, has an exceptional tolerance for rising temperatures, both literally and figuratively. Bre has worked hard to maintain her composure and serenity in high-pressure situations, and nowhere was this more evident than when she was a field instructor at Northern Arizona University (NAU). Bre earned her Bachelor of Science in Public Health from NAU, and while there, she led educational programs in a variety of outdoor settings, where things didn't always go as planned and she had to lead the way. Empathy, patience, and a glass-half-full attitude helped her excel in this role. She has applied these skills in various classroom settings, including delivering drug prevention presentations to all ages, facilitating STEM workshops in tribal schools, and providing online family strengthening lessons to foster and kinship families. Bre has paid great attention to how people react and respond in groups under stressful situations and discovered that if someone consciously strove to remain calm, the entire dynamic shifted. As the Youth Prevention Manager, she wants to provide a calming presence for the prevention team. She understands the value of being heard as a self-described professional listener and wants to bring that to her team and the youth she serves. She can only do so if she actively looks after herself, which she does in her spare time by roaming with her dog, reading, crafting, eating, and socializing with friends and family. At the end of the day, Bre is determined to create inclusive spaces wherever her work may take her to allow youth to express themselves openly and safely.

Certified Botvin LifeSkills Facilitator
Trauma Informed Care
Trauma Informed Primary Prevention
Rx 360 Training of Trainers
Fentanyl 360
Adverse Childhood Experiences
Cultural Sensitivity
LGBTQ+ Inclusion
Youth Mental Health First Aid
Mindful Schools
PAX Tools
Naloxone Overdose Prevention
CPR & First Aid
Fingerprint Clearance Card

Kaitlyn Dimech joined notMYkid’s prevention team in 2021. As a Program Coordinator, Kaitlyn is responsible for coordinating and delivering prevention education programs for schools and organizations. She grew up in the Bay Area, California and moved to Arizona to attend Northern Arizona University in 2015. Kaitlyn graduated from Northern Arizona University in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health. After graduating, she moved to the Phoenix area to pursue opportunities in health promotion and education. In the past 3 years, Kaitlyn has gained experience in providing motivational interviewing, implementing health education curricula on social and emotional learning, and coordinating programs. Kaitlyn is incredibly passionate about the work notMYkid does for Arizona communities and loves promoting mental health among the youth. In her free time, she enjoys being around friends and staying active by going to the gym or running. She also likes taking weekend trips to the Bay Area to visit family every couple of months.

Training & Certifications:

Certified Botvin LifeSkills Facilitator
Trauma Informed Care
Trauma Informed Primary Prevention
Adverse Childhood Experiences
Cultural Sensitivity
LGBTQ+ Inclusion
Youth Mental Health First Aid
Mindful Schools
PAX Tools
Naloxone Overdose Prevention
CPR & First Aid
Fingerprint Clearance Card

Wendy Gustafson, Regional Program Manager, joined notMYkid in 2021. Wendy brings 26 years of administrative experience, including organizing, coordinating, and completing programs and projects. As our Regional Program Manager, Wendy provides overall support for projects by serving as a community development expert. She works directly with schools to ensure a successful implementation of the notMYkid full continuum of care model and participates in community and coalition activities. In addition to her professional experience, Wendy’s volunteer background includes twelve years of leadership with school parent organizations, Girl Scouts, and several non-profit organizations allowing her to develop deep connections to Bullhead City and surrounding communities.

Training & Certification:

Trauma Informed Care
Cultural Sensitivity
LGBTQ+ Inclusion
Positive Youth Development
QPR Suicide Gatekeeper
Naloxone Overdose Prevention
CPR & First Aid
Fingerprint Clearance Card

Julio Saran has over a decade of experience in Youth Development, Program Implementation, and Arts Education. As a former opportunity youth, Julio recognizes the value and importance of peer support, mentorship, and community. As an AmeriCorps program coordinator and site coordinator, Julio has provided direct service to over 10,000 youth throughout his career, often delivering social-emotional curricula through play and arts education. As a Program Director for the YMCA, Julio ran a licensed site with 70 participants. Partnering with different organizations, Julio was able to provide resources for students to develop their motor, social and emotional skills. Julio has written and has been awarded several arts grants to develop himself as an artist and to develop movement-based programming to Arizona artists of all ages. Julio enjoys traveling and participating in dance competitions across the country, dancing with friends, and building community.

Ashley joined the notMYkid team as a Prevention Specialist in March 2023. She was raised in rural Kingman, Arizona but spent 4 years in Tucson completing her Bachelor of Science from the University the Arizona. She was a Community Health Education Specialist with Mohave County Department of Public Health where she served youth and adults throughout Mohave County. During this time, she delivered evidence based sexual health and life skills education to youth as well as parenting and Youth Mental Health First Aid to adults. She is thankful to be able to be a support and helping hand to the people of Mohave County and is proud to continue her prevention efforts with notMYkid.

Aside from her professional endeavors, Ashley loves spending time with her family, traveling and trying new food spots.

CPR and First Aid Certified
HIPAA Trained
Fingerprint Clearance Card
Youth Mental Health First Aid Certified
Youth Mental Health First Aid Facilitator Certified

Nicole joined the notMYkid team in 2022 as a Peer Support Specialist for the [i]nspired peer program. In May 2022, she completed her undergraduate degree at Barrett, The Honors College at Arizona State University with a BS in Psychology, and a minor in Family and Human Development. She has always enjoyed working with and supporting people, especially youth. She looks forward to using her individual experiences and her passion for working with youth to make a difference in the community. She also hopes to pursue a graduate degree in counseling to meet her goal of one day becoming a licensed professional counselor to serve youth and young adults.

Nicole enjoys spending her free time reading good books, listening to music, dancing, spending time with her friends and family, and partaking in activities that allow her to be adventurous.

Certified Peer Support Specialist
Trauma Informed Care
Cultural Sensitivity
Naloxone Overdose Prevention
LGBTQ+ Inclusion
CPR & First Aid
Fingerprint Clearance Card

Obinna (Obi) Uzoekwe joined the notMYkid team in June 2022 as a Prevention Specialist. He brings a unique cross-cultural perspective to the prevention program because he was born and raised in Nigeria. Obi migrated to the United States in 2016 and earned his bachelor's degree in Psychology with a minor in sociology from Western New Mexico University (WNMU). While at WNMU, he held different positions in Media Services and Alumni Affairs. Obi also held an internship position with the YMCA managing a transitional housing program for adults experiencing homelessness. His experiences and training helped shape his world views and provided him with the necessary toolkit to plan and execute evidence-based programs within the community. His vision is to keep creating mental health awareness while advocating, supporting, and educating the youths. In his free time, Obi enjoys playing soccer, watching movies, taking road trips, and meditating to relieve stress. "We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope." –Martin Luther King, Jr.

Certified Botvin LifeSkills Facilitator
Trauma Informed Care
Adverse Childhood Experiences
Cultural Sensitivity
LGBTQ+ Inclusion
Naloxone Overdose Prevention
CPR & First Aid
Fingerprint Clearance Card

Allison Tobón is motivated to help serve and impact the youth in her community. Allison has over five years of working with youth ages 12-18 through a non-profit called YoungLife. Allison desires that every youth has the tools and support when facing mental health challenges. She graduated in 2021 from Grand Canyon University with her bachelor's degree in Behavioral Health. While at GCU, she recognized her love for Prevention, especially for the adolescent demographic. She is currently a graduate student at Grand Canyon University studying Psychology. Now she serves her community by being a Prevention Specialist for notMYkid's prevention team. Allison is passionate about being a role model to youth in her community and helping empower them to strive to be their best selves. In her free time, Allison enjoys finding new coffee shops, playing card games with her husband, and a beach day!

Amy Le has over four years of experience working with youth in the behavioral health field. She continues to serve and inspire the youth community as a Peer Support Specialist for notMYkid's Peer Program. Amy worked as a Prevention Specialist and moved over to the Peer Program where she continues her passion to support the youth. She received her Bachelor of Science from Arizona State University. While at ASU, Amy was a Teaching Assistant for ASU's Communication Assessment & Learning Lab where she provided peer mentoring on public speaking for the youth community outreach program. She has worked closely with the Boys and Girls Club's Youth of the Year, Girl Scouts, and K-12 graders within the West Valley. After her internship with the Boys and Girls Club, Amy wanted to continue her career in mental health and become a positive role model for the kids. She has also provided peer support for at-risk youth at group homes and outpatient behavioral clinics. Amy is skilled at implementing and planning workshops for self-esteem, self-care, creative painting, communication, and interactive activities.

Amy loves to journal, paint, cook new recipes, and work out at the gym or do yoga for days to care for her mental wellness. She loves her cat (named Khoi which means "smokey" in Vietnamese). Amy loves going on walks with her cat every day.

Certified Peer Support Specialist
Certified Botvin LifeSkills Facilitator
Trauma Informed Care
Adverse Childhood Experiences
Cultural Sensitivity
LGBTQ+ Inclusion
Naloxone Overdose Prevention
CPR & First Aid
Fingerprint Clearance Card

Marcos Guzman joined the notMYkid team in June 2023 as a Prevention Specialist. Born in Arizona and brought up in West Phoenix, he believes nothing quite beats the heat like a burning passion to promote positivity and share joy. He is a graduate from Arizona State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and Mass Communication. In previous roles, he has worked for marketing offices, newsrooms, and tech companies, which provided him the perspective of what can be available to young adults who are set on a path for success. He believes every individual can thrive and find happiness as they further develop themselves, and he is continuing to grow as a new member of the notMYKid team. When he is not at work, he's witnessing stories on the big screen, rapping Fergalicious, hopping on a videogame, or joining a local stage production where he's contributing to and encouraging community. From his time studying journalism and always involving himself in what's going on around him, Noah works to bring creative storytelling centerstage and inspire hope in the young communities he works with.

Erica Cole joined the notMYkid team as a Prevention Specialist is 2022. She has resided in Arizona for over ten years and is passionate about serving her community. She prides herself on being compassionate towards others and having the ability to make personal connections very quickly. Erica graduated from Northern Arizona University with a bachelor's degree in Public Health as well as a minor in Biology. She became a Health Education Specialist in 2022 after passing the national CHES exam. This certification strengthened her knowledge of behavioral health theories and prevention methods. Within her college career, Erica held an internship position at Northern Arizona Care and Services After Assault. Working with victims of sexual assault and domestic violence taught her about the importance of empathy and the need for self-care. She is extremely passionate about helping at-risk populations as well as educating the public about potential health risks. In her free time, Erica enjoys going to the gym and spending time outdoors as she feels these activities improve her mental health. Erica also loves spending time with friends and family who are supportive of her long-term goals.

Certified Botvin LifeSkills Facilitator
Trauma Informed Care
Adverse Childhood Experiences
Cultural Sensitivity
LGBTQ+ Inclusion
Naloxone Overdose Prevention
CPR & First Aid
Fingerprint Clearance Card

Danielle Flowers is a Program Coordinator at notMYkid. She was born and raised in Mesa, Arizona and strives to make positive change for all Arizona youth. Danielle has over a decade of experience in customer service, administration, and coordination. Her goal is to help bring healing and understanding to our communities and to enrich the lives of others through connection. In her free time, Danielle enjoys singing, beatboxing, and playing Magic the Gathering. She is a cat mom and an avid anime fan. Danielle’s greatest wish is to bring hope to others.

“Hope is that thing inside us that insists, despite all evidence to the contrary, that something better awaits us if we have the courage to reach for it, and to work for it, and to fight for it.” -Barack Obama

Youth Mental Health First Aid Certified
Fingerprint Clearance Card
CPR & First Aid Certified

Ezequiel “Zeke” Arias joined notMYkid in November 2022 and serves as the Care Coordinator of Behavioral Health Programs. Zeke graduated from Arizona State University with a bachelor’s degree in Social Work. Before coming to notMYkid, Zeke served the foster care system by helping children, parents, and families reunify. Zeke is passionate about helping families navigate the behavioral health care system by ensuring they are educated and informed about services and programs available to them. In his free time, Zeke enjoys reading books, listening to podcasts, spending time with family, traveling, and exercising.

Maggie Reichler has a positive, bubbly personality with a deep passion for life. She has her Bachelor's of Arts from ASU in Psychology and Counseling, and is planning to go back for her Master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Through NMK, she served as an AmeriCorps member at Skyline High School, meeting with students one-on-one who struggled with substance use, mental health, and friend/family/social aspects. She also co-facilitated IOP groups at NMK with Julie. Maggie is now a Peer Support Specialist at NMK and is passionate about supporting and connecting with the youth through her own lived experiences and education.

In her free time, Maggie is a painter and tattoo artist. She loves to be outdoors hiking or camping, going to the gym, listening to music and podcasts, meditating, practicing spirituality and self-love, and being with her family.

Certified Peer Support Specialist
Adverse Childhood Experiences
Trauma Informed Care
LGBTQ+ Inclusion
Cultural Sensitivity
CPR & First Aid
Fingerprint Clearance Card

Cole Nochumson joined the notMYkid team in 2023 as a Prevention Specialist. He was born in Chicago, IL, and has resided in Arizona for over 15 years. He graduated college in 2022 from Southern New Hampshire University with a bachelor's degree in data analytics. His favorite portion of data analytics was problem-solving. He uses facts and information to determine the best possible solutions. A little insight into Cole, his brain thinks more logically than emotionally, which is why data analytics was his degree path. However, the lack of emotion that his thought process uses led him to a job as a prevention specialist teaching youth how to make positive life choices.

He is deeply committed to helping others and goes above and beyond to make a positive difference in their lives. One of Cole's favorite things to do is be active. His favorite quote is, "If you had $86,400 and someone stole $10, would you throw $86,390 away for revenge? Or move on and live? Right, move on and live. See, you have 86,400 seconds each day. Don't let someone's negative 10 seconds ruin the remaining 86,390. Life is bigger than that. And so are you." He started living by this quote during high school when the most insignificant speed bumps would negatively impact his attitude. When minor inconveniences occur, he'll now say, "It is what it is." and move on with life. He has learned to enjoy the little things in life and accept that every day is not perfect. Life is a challenge, but through his perseverance, he is now in a position to teach others how to be the best YOU.

Joronda Montaño, a 17-year Prevention veteran, was previously the Chief Programs Officer at notMYkid for five years. She is now a consultant for the organization to continue offering her expertise in implementing effective programs to help youth succeed in achieving positive mental and physical health outcomes. Since 2002, Joronda has worked to reduce youth substance abuse and suicide. She was trained early to seek collaboration and, in her tenure, has partnered with schools, businesses, law enforcement, faith-based organizations and behavioral health providers. Her passion for empowering youth and families has taken her across the U.S. and abroad. Joronda spent a sabbatical year helping NGO’s and community-based organizations across 13 countries, with disaster relief, environmental crisis, microfinance and education for youth and adults with disabilities. In 2018 Joronda was named Tempe Youth Champion of the Year by Tempe Coalition for her efforts to support the positive development of youth in Tempe, Arizona. Ms. Montaño is skilled at community problem solving, grant writing, youth advocacy and public speaking. She can take a complicated topic and frame it in a way that meets the audience exactly where they are. Joronda is known for applying humor where needed and honors the humanness in everyone. If you ask her about her “Why” she will tell you she derives passion from her upbringing and her experience as a student-athlete. She earned her Bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University while competing as an All-American Track and Field athlete. Three years later she finished graduate education at ASU with a Master’s in Public Administration. She credits her positive development as an adult to the adults from her childhood. Joronda Montaño values the idea of making a difference in the lives of others and now commits herself to being an adult who supports and inspires youth.

Alan “Duke” Schwartz, CIC is the Managing Principal of Schwartz Insurance Agency in Scottsdale, AZ. Duke is one of the country’s leading Property and Casualty insurance brokers. In addition, Duke is the Governance/Nomination Committee chair for the notMYkid Board of Directors. He has a passion for helping youth find their potential and avoid the pitfalls that can derail their lives in their formative years. Duke is also a founding partner of Greek Ladders, a startup company that assists college students to learn pragmatic life and career lessons increasing the opportunity to find a career after graduation. As a University of Arizona graduate, he was an initial member of the Kappa Sigma Fraternity and served as President of the Chapter. He was inducted in to the Chapter’s Hall of Fame and currently serves on the Advisory Board. Duke and Robin were married in 1991 and have two boys, Austin (’93) and Brandon (’95).

Born in New York City and raised in Oradell, New Jersey, Mark moved to Arizona in 1991 to attend Arizona State University. After graduating from ASU, Mark returned to the East Coast, where he worked in production for Fox News Channel in New York City. Mark decided to return to Arizona a few years later and has lived and worked in North Scottsdale ever since. Mark is currently an active Realtor who primarily focuses on flipping properties. He also manages the day to day operations of the Goldberg Family Foundation, a private foundation that makes grants to several Phoenix based charities. Mark has a passion for helping today’s youth and feels honored to be a part of Not My Kid’s mission. Mark is married to his wife, Nicole, and has two young boys, Brody and Blake. In his free time you can find Mark on the golf course, at a poker table, or spending time with his family.

notMYkid is pleased to announce Emily Anne Gullickson has joined our Board of Directors on November 1, 2021. Emily Anne is the Founder and CEO of A for Arizona, bringing a unique background of executive, advocacy, legal, and teaching experience as a Teach For America – Phoenix alumna to the organization. Under her leadership, A for Arizona has championed first-in-the-nation policies and initiatives focused on opportunity, access, and innovation, overseen a $22 million dollar Expansion & Innovation Fund to seed bold new approaches to K-12 education and growing an entrepreneurial School Leadership Collective that is rapidly increasing the number of low-income students attending high-quality schools and learning environments where they will thrive and are supported to reach their full potential. She also leads sister political advocacy organization Great Leaders Strong Schools as President and Founder. Prior to launching A for Arizona as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, Emily Anne served as the Chief Executive Officer at the Arizona Chamber Foundation overseeing three major initiatives including A for Arizona, Chamber Business News, and the Arizona Industry Fellows. Under her direction, the Foundation published critical policy briefs and research on topics dedicated to expanding economic opportunity in Arizona such as K-12 education reform, water, and the Drought Contingency Plan, and trade with a focus on the USMCA and its impact on Arizona.

Emily Anne was recognized as 2021 Leader of the Year in Education and 2021 Best Activist by the Arizona Capitol Times and state Capitol community and nationally by her peers through PIE Network this year as Breakthrough Advocate finalist and for leading a Gamechanger Campaign for her team’s work on modernizing K-12 transportation options. She was recently recognized by the Arizona Capitol Times as an Inaugural Women Achievers of Arizona – Nonprofit Leader and 2019 Breakdown Breakout, which is awarded to the sharpest political minds in Arizona under 40. She was identified in 2018 by The Arizona Republic as an educator to watch that’s shaping Arizona’s next generation and was a Greater Phoenix Chamber 2017 ATHENA Young Professional Award Nominee.

Brett Johnson is a Partner of Snell & Wilmer. He represents businesses and individuals in government relations matters. His practice includes government regulatory compliance, export, government contracting, political and election law, and health care matters, including professional liability defense and commercial litigation. Brett regularly represents parties and witnesses involved with governmental investigations, including election law, governmental ethics, export control, False Claims Act, Foreign Corrupt Practices Act, and government procurement compliance laws and regulations. He has experience handling internal investigations and compliance audits for clients on a wide range of matters. Brett also provides training to businesses and governmental agencies concerning compliance matters and the drafting of related corporate policies. In addition to representing large and small businesses, individuals and pro bono clients, he is the co-chair of the firm’s International Industry Group and the editor of the firm’s International Industry Group’s Global Connection newsletter. Brett also serves on the firm’s Attorney Development Committee.

Michelle has been working in the recovery community for over ten years after finding her own recovery on March 27, 2007. Michelle is the owner of Scottsdale Recovery Center with over 20 years’ experience in the accounting field. Michelle received her Bachelor’s in Accounting in 1995 from Arizona State University and worked as a Senior Manager at Arthur Andersen for many years. Michelle is on the Executive Board of the Arizona Recovery Housing Association, is actively involved in the Art of Recovery and works one-on-one with women in the recovery community. Over the last four years, Michelle has worked tirelessly on the sober living legislative efforts with Jeff Taylor, Senator Barto and Senator Brophy Mcgee. Michelle is in long-term recovery and is passionate about helping individuals struggling with alcohol and drug addiction and educating the community. She is a firm believer in paying it forward so that all who have a sincere desire can recover.

Zuhdi Jasser, M.D. has been in the private practice of internal medicine and nuclear cardiology in Phoenix, Arizona since 1999. Dr. Jasser leads a small practice with one other internist and a physician’s assistant. In addition to his practice of primary care, he has particular interests in bioethics, organized medicine, and nuclear cardiology. He has served on the Maricopa County Board of Health (2004-2012) and the Board of Directors of the Area Agency on Aging (2007-2012), President of the Arizona Medical Association (2006-2007), and currently a delegate to the American Medical Association House of Delegates (AMA-HOD) for the Arizona Medical Association. Dr. Jasser earned his medical degree on a U.S. Navy scholarship at the Medical College of Wisconsin in 1992. He served 11 years as a medical officer in the U.S. Navy receiving an honorable discharge as a Lieutenant Commander. His tours of duty included Medical Department Head aboard the U.S.S. El Paso which deployed to Somalia during Operation Restore Hope; Chief Resident at Bethesda Naval Hospital; and Staff Internist for the Office of the Attending Physician to the U. S. Congress. He is a recipient of the U.S. Navy’s Meritorious Service Medal. Dr. Jasser, his wife Gada, and their three children reside in Scottsdale, Arizona.

Steve is Managing Director – Investments with Wells Fargo Advisors in Scottsdale. He is a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® and a Senior PIM Portfolio Manager. With two grown daughters, he now finds more time for community service, including notMYkid. Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC.

Dr. Jeffrey Siegel has been practicing general pediatrics at North Scottsdale Pediatrics since 1998. He attended Washington University, University of Missouri School of Medicine and trained at Babies Hospital at Columbia-Presbyterian Medical center in New York City. He is a Fellow of the American Academy of Pediatrics. He has the distinction of being named a Top Doc by Phoenix Magazine for over 10 years. Dr. Siegel has a special interest in taking care of children and adolescents with mental health challenges including ADHD, anxiety and depression. He also has an interest in gifted children and gifted education. His 2 boys have attended Grayhawk Elementary, Desert Cove self-contained gifted program, Explorer Middle School and Pinnacle High School. He has been married for 24 years and plays drums in the rock band The Flippin Switches.

Dr. Weinstock received his Ph.D. from the University of Arizona and his J.D. from the Boston University School of Law. He is a licensed psychologist in Arizona and a licensed and retired attorney in New York and Massachusetts. His focus is on family law, specifically family evaluations and family and individual counseling. He has conducted family law evaluations for over two decades, both privately and at the Pima County Conciliation Court. He has also provided treatment to adolescents, including experience working with the gifted population. Dr. Weinstock has experience working within the criminal justice system, which includes training at the Arizona State Hospital, conducting competency evaluations and risk assessments. Dr. Weinstock has experience with sexual offender and sex addiction evaluations and treatment. He is a board member of Arizona’s Association of Family and Conciliation Courts (AzAFCC) and Notmykid.org. He is an advisory board member for Child Health & Resiliency Mastery (CHARM). He is currently part-time faculty in the Graduate Psychology Department at Northern Arizona University (NAU) and assists with a forensic rotation for Creighton University School of Medicine-Phoenix. He participated with the Maricopa County Superior Court’s Behavioral Health Committee. He is a former board member for the Arizona Psychological Foundation (AzPF), Arizona’s Domestic Relations Committee and the Arizona Psychological Association (AzPA). He is also a former co-chair of the Arizona Psychological Association’s forensic committee and Communications Representative for the Arizona Psychological Association (AzPA).

Prior to joining Grey Street Capital, Melissa ran her own business for fifteen years called Longevity Partners, affiliating through Northwestern Mutual. Melissa and her team worked across the US, with a high concentration of clients being in Arizona. She worked almost exclusively with successful business owners and executives and HNW Families who were focused on accumulating and passing wealth generationally and with a key emphasis on risk management, tax efficiency, and stewardship.

Melissa graduated from UC Santa Barbara, CA, with honors in three years. Melissa has resided ever since in Phoenix, where she was born and raised. Melissa has three children [Abby, Evan, and Elliot], who take up most of her non-working time. She also loves playing pickleball, being outdoors whenever possible, and socializing at some of her favorite local restaurants.

Melissa is a current Advisory Board member for AZVC, a newly formed $100M+ VC fund led by Jack Selby of Pay Pal and concentrated on building the AZ ecosystem through funding talented tech entrepreneurs. Melissa has served in a number of board roles over the last decade, such as Teach For America, Gift of Adoption Fund, and First Place, and recently joined the board for Not My Kid.

Dr. Mark Blair is a native of Massena, New York. He attended Boston University and graduated with a BA in Biology in 1989. After graduating with his medical degree from Albany Medical College in 1993, Dr. Blair continued on at Baystate Medical Center in Springfield, Massachusetts with his medical internship specializing in General Surgery. He completed his residency program in Dermatology at the Naval Medical Center in San Diego, California in 2002.

Dr. Blair was active in the military service for the United States Navy from March 1994 through June 2004 as a General Medical Officer in Okinawa, Japan and an F/A-18 Hornet flight surgeon in Lemoore, California. After working for the Naval Hospital Beaufort in South Carolina as the Department Head for Dermatology, he has continued his career in Dermatology in a private practice as owner of Paradise Valley Dermatology providing multi-dimensional care in both medical and aesthetic aspects of dermatology focusing on skin cancer and laser medicine.

Kelley Carter serves on the Board of Directors of notMYkid and has been affiliated with the organization since 2018. Originally from Michigan, Kelley relocated to sunny Scottsdale in 1998 after falling in love with Arizona on vacation. Passionate about her work and serving others “from the beginning to the end” compels Kelley to be a Realtor. During her off time, Kelley enjoys staying active with her family and dogs, golfing, working to strengthen the public school system - serving as a former board member for both Copper Ridge and Chaparral High School – and supporting Fresh Start. As the mother of two, Kelley knows the vital work notMYkid performs in our community to ensure every kid thrives by inspiring positive life choices.

I have lived in Phoenix, AZ since 2007 having moved here from Willowick, Ohio where I was born and raised. I came to Arizona to pursue a career in the mortgage banking industry. The Southwest was growing exponentially, and the opportunity and timing was perfect. In retrospect, it was easily one of the best decisions of my life and I have since planted deep roots here.

Although I do not have children of my own, I have personally witnessed the ravages and destruction addiction causes. Unfortunately, my brother has battled his demons by turning to drugs. Heroin and fentanyl were his drugs of choice, and it has wreaked havoc on him and our family in so many ways. I have also observed the impact that addiction and mental health have had in our community. I have reached a point in my business life where my experience combined with the people I have around me have placed me in a position to make a difference and I want to help.

About:

Senior business development professional with years of corporate experience in business-to- business sales positions yielding exceptional results in a competitive market. I have a record of being a top performer with a demonstrated passion for achievement while aggressively identifying opportunities to deliver effective and tactical business solutions.

Utilizing 30 years of serial entrepreneurial experience, Mr. Keller is a recognized business leader who offers a unique blend of leadership experience, executive acumen, an extensive interconnected network, and a proven track record of building performance-based teams and million-dollar companies.

At the beginning of 2022, Mr. Keller joined Beacons Capital Group as a partner, providing alternative financing options to Entrepreneurial companies looking to scale and not impacting the equity for stakeholders. In short, BCG provides non-dilutive financing options providing immediate solutions to meet the liquidity demands often faced by business owners. Individual loans range from $50,000 to $5,000,000 while each transaction is underwritten and priced based on the individual loan characteristics. Mr. Keller and his partner fund all client loans with their capital, enabling quick decisions and funding.

His previous endeavor as the managing partner & CEO of Cobalt Professional Services Network, DBA Synlio, concluded in the successful acquisition by Building Engines, the leader of asset management software in the Commercial real estate sector, out of Boston in October 2019 Synlio's dual revenue product created a patent-pending software solution automating the RFP and bidding process for the commercial and residential real estate sector and built the symbiotic and extensive national network of trusted service providers to fill the user-created request.

As a partner in Beacons Capital Group, Mr. Keller’s has found the ability to fulfill his need to give back to the entrepreneurial community. Besides his ability to provide alternative financial solutions, Mr. Keller spends countless hours mentoring and coaching fellow entrepreneurs to implement technology to build organizational and operational efficiencies, focusing on ROI and leadership accountability.

Previous Experience includes:

Managing Partner and CEO Cobalt Professional Services Network dba Synlio - Acquired by Building Engines/JLL, Boston MA.
Founder of The Missing Link Group, Management Coaching & Consulting - Creating operational efficiencies through use of technology. Ongoing.
Partner Meltmobile Meltmedia, multiple platform mobile application development firm. Successful Exit
Founder Elite Audio-Visual Solutions, provider of AV services to luxury hotels and resorts. Successful Exit
Co-Founder at A3T and COO at Vision-Stream, the first digital agency in Arizona. Successful Exit

Organizations

Entrepreneurs' Organization (EO) – Member
EOAZ chapter board and multiple global committees Member
EO Leadership Academy – Graduate
Entrepreneurial Masters Program (Received Masters Certificate in Entrepreneurial Studies)
Vistage
CEO Coaching International

Debbie Moak, Co-Founder of notMYkid As the co-founder of notMYkid for the past 20 years, Debbie has elevated the conversation in our schools and families, shining a light on the harsh realities of youth mental health and the potentially life-derailing challenges facing young people today. In addition to her many volunteer activities and personal commitment to helping families across the Valley, Debbie is the former Director of Governor Ducey’S Office of Youth, Faith and Family. Debbie oversaw state and federal funds, as well as 8 statewide councils and commissions including, substance abuse, domestic violence, human trafficking, juvenile justice, faith based initiatives, youth, service and volunteerism. The Governor’s Office of Youth, Faith and Family provides oversight, funding, technical assistance and resources to coalitions and non-profits throughout the state to support some of Arizona’s most vulnerable populations. During her tenure in the Governor’s administration, Debbie served as the Co-Chair of Governor Ducey’s Substance Abuse Task Force along with AHCCCS, Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Sara Salek. After seven months of convening community stakeholders, the Task Force submitted 104 recommendations on prevention, access to treatment, medication assisted treatment and neo-natal abstinence syndrome back to Governor Ducey. Additionally, she served as the Co-Chair of The Arizona Substance Abuse Partnership along with Mr. Bill Montgomery, the Maricopa County Attorney. ASAP is the single statewide council on substance abuse, prevention, treatment and recovery. Debbie has personally presented substance abuse education programs to thousands of parents and faculties in Arizona, as well as numerous other states and internationally in Scotland, Thailand and Guatemala. She also has spearheaded two national annual drug awareness campaigns focused on educating hundreds of thousands of adults in cities across the United States. Previously, Debbie worked for ten years as an elementary classroom teacher and a special education resource teacher in Arizona, Ohio and Kentucky (1986-1996). Debbie volunteered as a librarian and was a board member and donor for the Thomas J. Pappas School for the Homeless (1996-1999). Debbie continues to serve Young Life in a variety of roles, served on the Joe Foss Institute Board, and in 2010 was awarded the Social Venture Partners Social Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Debbie obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Northern Kentucky University (1985). In 2017, she was the university’s Inaugural Distinguished Alumni Award from her alma mater. In 2019, Debbie was the top finalist in the category of Mental Health Advocate in the Phoenix Business Journal’s 2019 Health Care Hero Awards. Debbie has previously cited raising her two adult sons as both the greatest joy and challenge of her life. The past two years have brought three beautiful grandchildren into her life, now considered the greatest blessing of her life. Debbie and her husband Steve recently celebrated 42 years of marriage and look forward to many more. She continues to bring family members personal struggles with substance abuse as her primary source of motivation in all that she does on prevention, intervention, treatment and recovery. “There has been no greater teacher than my earned life experience on substance abuse”.