Case Manager

Amanda Talavera is an educator, mentor, and advocate for academic empowerment with a strong background in English and criminal justice. She holds a Master of Arts in English and a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice with a minor in English from St. John’s University.

Amanda is passionate about supporting students from diverse backgrounds and helping them build confidence in their academic and personal journeys. She currently serves as a High School Student Mentor with Minds Matter Southern California, guiding high-achieving, low-income students through academic planning, career exploration, and personal development.

She also works as a Literacy Tutor with the Glendale Library, Arts & Culture Trust, where she helps adult learners strengthen their writing and communication skills through personalized instruction. Additionally, Amanda has experience tutoring immigrant students and leading student retreats focused on resilience and personal growth.

Amanda is committed to empowering learners through mentorship, education, and meaningful community engagement.

Head of Housing Department

Aryan is a Los Angeles native who has been part of the community since childhood. He earned dual bachelor’s degrees in mechanical engineering and psychology from the University of California, San Diego.

After graduation, he worked as an associate mechanical engineer at Northrop Grumman, contributing to projects such as the F-35 program. Seeking more engaging work, he pursued a master’s degree in mechanical engineering with a specialization in product design at UC Berkeley. However, during this time Aryan realized his deeper interest lay in psychology.

Today, he works as a behavior interventionist in applied behavior analysis, helping autistic children become more responsive and teachable. He also volunteers as a mentor for middle school students and leads grief support groups.

At My New House, Aryan supports case management, trains volunteers, and assists with property listings, workflow organization, and process automation. He plans to pursue a PsyD in psychology in 2026.

Utilization Review (UR) Specialist

Ashley is a dedicated public safety and communications professional with more than five years of experience in dispatch operations, customer service, and emergency response coordination. She has built a strong career managing both emergency and non-emergency communications, demonstrating exceptional leadership, problem-solving, and organizational skills in high-pressure environments.

Ashley currently serves as a Dispatcher with Bay Medic Ambulance, where she coordinates urgent EMT calls, facilitates communication between medical teams and hospitals, and helps ensure timely emergency response. Her previous experience includes dispatch and customer service roles with Allied Universal Security, as well as leadership positions in the security industry, where she supervised teams, improved operational efficiency, and strengthened safety protocols.

She earned an Associate degree in Business Administration from Laney College and holds a typing certification. Ashley is recognized for her commitment to service, effective communication, and ability to remain calm and focused during critical situations.

Inventory & Donations

Axel was born and raised in Los Angeles and graduated from North Hollywood High School in 2012. From a young age, he has been passionate about faith, service, and community, with a lifelong dream of pursuing a career in Biblical Ministries. His dedication to helping others is evident through his long-standing involvement with My New House, where he has been a supporter since its founding. Over the years, Axel has contributed to many areas of the organization, including the thrift store, administrative support, and special events, always lending a helping hand wherever needed.

Outside of his volunteer work, Axel enjoys reading and spending time with his beloved dog, Jack, whom he takes pride in caring for. His ultimate goal is to see My New House continue to grow and transform lives, inspiring hope and faith in others through compassion, service, and community support.

Software Engineer

Caroline Hughes is a software engineer and community volunteer passionate about using technology to create meaningful social impact. She currently works at Oracle Health & AI, where she develops and deploys secure, scalable cloud infrastructure for healthcare applications. Caroline holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Northeastern University, where she specialized in software engineering and distributed systems.

Throughout her career, Caroline has contributed to a range of technical projects, from developing iOS features for the Nike Training Club app to building full-stack applications for The Routing Company and Chewy. Skilled in multiple programming languages and cloud technologies, she brings a blend of technical expertise and purpose-driven innovation to her work.

Originally from Boston, Massachusetts, Caroline now lives in Los Angeles, where she volunteers with My New House, helping strengthen local communities. Outside of work, she enjoys running, playing soccer, and exploring the outdoors.

Communications & Human Resources Manager

Gabriela Mena is a communications professional with a successful career in sports marketing and communications. She holds a degree in Communications and has applied her expertise across diverse fields, including nonprofits, youth leadership programs, e-commerce, and photography. Her professional journey reflects both versatility and a deep commitment to fostering community engagement through sport and media.

Beyond her career, Gabriela is a dedicated volunteer and leader in international basketball. She serves on the Finance Commission of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and plays a key leadership role within FIBA Americas, contributing to the growth and sustainability of the sport across the region. In addition, she is an active member of the Women’s Basketball Commission Board in El Salvador, where she advocates for female representation and leadership in athletics.

Through her professional work and volunteer service, Gabriela continues to champion empowerment, equity, and growth within sports and communications.

Inventory & Donations

Gianni was born in Los Angeles and graduated from Robert F. Kennedy Community School in 2016. From the very beginning, he has been an active and dedicated volunteer at My New House, contributing to various areas including the thrift store and billing. His long-term commitment and innovative thinking have made him an important part of the organization’s growth and community outreach.

Recently, Gianni proposed the idea of transitioning the thrift store back to in-person operations, introducing a fresh perspective focused on affordability and accessibility. His vision aims to provide high-quality items at very low prices, ensuring that families and individuals in need can benefit directly from the store’s resources.

Gianni’s greatest desire is to see the My New House Thrift Store thrive, expanding its reach while maintaining its mission to serve with compassion and integrity.

The Giving Closet

Gladys was born in El Salvador and graduated with a degree in Graphic Arts in 1968. She was married to Ismael Alexander Mejia for 50 wonderful years until his passing in 2018. Following this life change, Gladys moved to the United States to live with her family, bringing with her a lifetime of creativity, strength, and dedication.

An entrepreneur at heart, Gladys has been part of My New House since its founding, contributing her artistic eye and business experience to the organization’s thrift store. Her creativity and commitment have helped shape the welcoming environment that supports so many families in need.

Beyond her work and volunteer service, Gladys enjoys cooking traditional meals, spending time with her loved ones, and watching television. Her greatest desire is to continue serving and supporting My New House’s mission to bring hope and assistance to the community she now calls home.

Case Manager

Humsais a high-achieving psychology student at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she maintains an outstanding academic record and has earned recognition on the Dean’s Honors List. Passionate about learning, leadership, and community engagement, she combines academic excellence with a strong commitment to service and professional growth.

Humsa gained valuable experience as a Marketing Intern at Saratech, where she developed marketing campaigns, collaborated with engineering teams, and translated technical concepts into engaging content. She has also worked in customer service and retail, strengthening her communication and relationship-building skills.

Her leadership experience includes serving as a Student Representative and Commissioner of Community Service, where she helped coordinate initiatives that benefited local communities. Humsa has also volunteered in programs supporting individuals experiencing homelessness. Recognized with the President’s Volunteer Service Award and National Merit Commended Scholar distinction, she is dedicated to making a positive impact through leadership, service, and education.

Medical Credentialing Coordinator

Jacinta is a healthcare professional, researcher, and emerging business leader dedicated to advancing health equity and improving patient outcomes. She is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration at the University of California, Davis, where she focuses on healthcare project management, operational excellence, and data analytics. She previously earned a Bachelor of Arts in Neuroscience from the University of Pennsylvania, with minors in Chemistry and Consumer Psychology.

Jacinta has extensive experience in healthcare operations and research. As a Clinical Operations Assistant at the Thomas Jefferson Headache Center, she supported patient care, optimized workflows, and implemented process improvements that increased operational efficiency. She has also conducted medical research and contributed to health equity initiatives aimed at reducing disparities and expanding access to resources for underserved communities.

A former NCAA Division I student-athlete, Jacinta is known for her leadership, resilience, and commitment to service, combining data-driven decision-making with a passion for community impact.

Case Manager

Jayne is a dedicated student at the University of California, Los Angeles, pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Chicana/o Studies. She has maintained strong academic performance and earned recognition on the Dean’s List for her commitment to excellence.

Jayne is passionate about mentorship, education, and supporting students from diverse backgrounds. As a Training Coordinator and Mentor with UCLA CASE, she provides guidance and college-readiness support to LAUSD high school students, helping them build confidence and achieve their academic goals.

In addition to her mentorship work, Jayne has contributed to academic research as a Research Assistant with UCLA’s MuHsic Study and completed a psychotherapy skills internship at Sentio University, where she practiced crisis intervention and communication skills.

Fluent in both Spanish and English, Jayne is committed to empowering communities through education, research, and compassionate service.

Medical Billing Clerk

Jessica Linnane is a detail-oriented professional with a strong background in health information technology, medical billing, administrative support, and customer service. She earned an Associate of Science in Health Information Technology and a Medical Insurance Billing Certificate from Cosumnes River College. She is also a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT), certified by the American Health Information Management Association.

Jessica brings several years of administrative experience, including serving as an Office Administrator at Aim High Service & Supply. There, she managed billing, vendor accounts, payments, QuickBooks, and electronic filing systems. Her previous experience includes accounts payable and receivable support, inventory management, scheduling, document organization, and customer relations.

Known for her organization, reliability, and strong work ethic, Jessica approaches every responsibility with professionalism and attention to detail. Her combination of healthcare knowledge and administrative expertise allows her to contribute effectively to teams while maintaining accuracy, efficiency, confidentiality, and quality service.

Inventory & Donations

Jorge was born in El Salvador and immigrated to the United States 47 years ago in pursuit of new opportunities. Throughout his life, he has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to hard work, integrity, and community service. Before retiring, Jorge built a long and successful career in Glendale, working for many years as a mail clerk at McIntyre Insurance, where he was known for his reliability and dedication.

Prior to coming to the U.S., Jorge worked at ADOC, one of El Salvador’s most prestigious shoe companies, where he played a key role in helping the business transition from mechanical production to modern technology.

Now retired, Jorge continues to dedicate his time to helping others through volunteer work and community service. Compassionate and service-driven, he finds great joy in giving back, caring for those around him, and supporting organizations that make a positive difference in people’s lives.

Case Manager

Karen Muniz is a dedicated student leader, community advocate, and aspiring psychology professional currently pursuing a degree in Pre-Psychology with a minor in Chicanx Studies at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). Passionate about education, mental health, and community engagement, she actively contributes to initiatives that support student well-being and access to resources.

At UCLA, Karen serves as a Social Media Chair for the Latinx Student Psychological Association and contributes to Bruin Necessities, promoting programs that provide essential services and support to students. She also works as an Office Assistant, where she assists with administrative operations, financial records, and organizational systems.

Fluent in both English and Spanish, Karen combines creativity, leadership, and strong communication skills to connect with diverse communities. Recognized for her academic excellence and numerous leadership achievements, she is committed to empowering others through service, advocacy, and education.

Product Entry

Katherine Ma is a dedicated Product Entry Volunteer at My New House, where she contributes to the organization’s mission of providing essential resources to individuals and families in need. She joined the team in late 2024 and has since supported operations with her attention to detail and commitment to service.

Katherine graduated from the University of California, Berkeley, with a Bachelor of Arts in Film and Media, after beginning her academic journey at community college. During her studies, she cultivated a passion for storytelling across film, television, theatre, and digital media. Her aspiration is to create productions that not only entertain but also comfort, inspire, and provide meaningful experiences for audiences.

As she continues to navigate her career path after graduation, Katherine remains committed to both creative expression and community service. Through her volunteer work and personal aspirations, she strives to make a positive impact on people’s lives.

Medical Billing Clerk 

Laura is a dedicated and detail-oriented professional with a background in Industrial Engineering and a strong interest in business administration, customer service, and organizational operations. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Industrial Engineering from the Industrial University of Santander in Colombia and is currently pursuing a degree in Business Administration and Management at Columbia College.

Laura has experience supporting administrative operations, managing communications, maintaining databases, and providing exceptional customer service in fast-paced environments. As an Administrative Assistant at the Industrial University of Santander, she collaborated with multiple departments, handled sensitive information, and improved workflow efficiency through strong organizational skills.

Currently working as a Child Caretaker in the United States, Laura has strengthened her communication, problem-solving, and relationship-building abilities while managing complex schedules and responsibilities. Fluent in both Spanish and English, she is recognized for her adaptability, professionalism, and commitment to helping others succeed.

Case Manager

Litzy is a dedicated community advocate and student at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a focus on Education and Social Transformation. Passionate about educational equity and community support, Litzy has developed extensive experience connecting individuals with essential resources and opportunities.

At UCLA, Litzy works with Basic Needs at Strathmore, supporting students by connecting them with food, hygiene products, financial education, and other essential services. Her previous work with UCLA’s Community Programs Office included program planning, outreach, advocacy, and resource coordination.

Litzy also mentors middle and high school students through community-based educational programs, providing academic guidance, encouragement, and college and career preparation. Bilingual in English and Spanish, she brings culturally responsive communication, empathy, and strong organizational skills to her work. Litzy is committed to empowering young people and strengthening underserved communities through education, mentorship, and compassionate service.

Billing Specialist

Luz Maríais an information technology professional with experience in data analysis, digital operations, and customer service management. She holds a degree in Computer Engineering from Universidad Tecnología TECH in El Salvador and has strengthened her expertise through certifications in cybersecurity, data analytics, and business intelligence, including the Google Data Analytics and Google Cybersecurity professional programs.

Luz María has worked in the digital business and operations areas of BAC Credomatic, where she served as an Administrative and Quality Analyst within the Digital Intelligence and CRM Operations team. In this role, she analyzed performance indicators, supported automation improvements, and contributed to operational efficiency.

She currently works as a Digital Contact Center and Services Supervisor, coordinating teams across multiple digital platforms and ensuring high-quality customer service. Known for being adaptable, proactive, and collaborative, Luz María is passionate about using technology to solve real-world challenges.

Legal & Compliance

María Fernanda Flores, born in Ecuador, is a dedicated legal professional with a strong commitment to justice, human rights, and cultural preservation. She holds a Law degree from the Courts of the Republic of Ecuador and a Bachelor’s in Social and Political Sciences from the University of Cuenca. A certified Mediator through the Pichincha Bar Association, she also serves as a Notary Public in California, accredited by the Secretary of State. Currently, María is expanding her legal expertise by pursuing Paralegal studies at Pasadena City College.

Beyond law, María channels her passion for culture and creativity through RepresentEC, a platform that celebrates Ecuadorian heritage through design, urban art, and fine handcrafted products. She also embraces ancestral wisdom through her 4 Elements collection, crafting essential oil blends inspired by Sumak Kawsay, the philosophy of living in harmony.

María’s multifaceted background reflects her dedication to advocacy, cultural identity, and community well-being.

Case Manager

Melany Munguia Correa is a dedicated psychology student at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), where she is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology. A graduate of Pitman High School with a strong academic record and the Seal of Biliteracy, Melany is passionate about education, mental health, and community service.

Throughout her academic journey, she has actively supported underserved communities through mentorship, outreach, and educational programs. As a Student Outreach Assistant with UCLA’s Early Academic Outreach Program, she helps middle and high school students prepare for college and achieve their educational goals. She has also worked with the Boys & Girls Club of Merced and Jumpstart, supporting children’s academic, social, and emotional development.

Melany is actively involved in organizations that promote mental health awareness, leadership, and Latinx representation in higher education. She is committed to creating positive change through advocacy, education, and service.

IT

Melody is a dedicated Computer Science student with a strong interest in technology, organization, and community service. She is currently pursuing a transfer degree in Computer Science at Los Angeles City College, where she maintains a 4.0 GPA and participates in the Ralph Bunche Scholars Honors Program. She is also working toward a Machine Learning Certificate.

Melody brings experience in customer service, education, data entry, digital file organization, and handling sensitive information. As a Teacher’s Assistant with the YMCA, she supported students by creating a safe and inclusive environment while using patience, empathy, and de-escalation skills. Her previous experience also strengthened her communication, teamwork, and organizational abilities.

Melody has volunteered as a Teen Court Juror, where she gained experience handling confidential case information and participating in collaborative decision-making. She is passionate about expanding her technical knowledge while using her skills to support organizations and communities through dependable, thoughtful service.

Admissions Remote

Nathaly is a motivated and compassionate young professional with training in health assistance and community care. She recently graduated from Theodor Herzl School, where she specialized in Health Assistance, gaining knowledge in primary healthcare and patient support.

Nathaly is recognized for her positive attitude, perseverance, and strong sense of discipline. She enjoys working collaboratively and values teamwork as an essential part of providing effective care and support. Through her studies, she also earned a diploma focused on assisting older adults, developing practical skills in caregiving and patient attention.

Her educational journey began at Genesis School and continued through her primary studies at Escuela Rural Mixta Unificada Profesora Herminia Martínez Alvarenga in El Salvador, where she built a strong academic foundation.

Nathaly is passionate about helping others and hopes to continue growing professionally while contributing to the well-being and care of people in her community.  

The Giving Closet

Nora takes great pride in being a loving mother and a devoted Catholic whose faith guides every aspect of her life. She finds joy and purpose in attending church and serving God through acts of compassion and service to others. A graduate of the University of El Salvador, where she earned her degree as a Medical Doctor, Nora brings a strong background in healthcare and a deep commitment to helping people.

At My New House, Nora is a dedicated and dependable team member who assists wherever she is needed—whether in the thrift store, at special events, or in case management. Her professionalism, empathy, and attention to detail ensure that every individual served receives compassionate and quality care.

Nora’s dedication, humility, and faith continue to inspire those around her. Through her work and her example, she reflects the mission and heart of My New House in action.

Healthcare Assistance

With over 12 years of experience in the insurance industry, Sara Renata Larrazabal is a seasoned Licensed Insurance Agent specializing in Life, Health, Small Business, Property, and Casualty coverage. She began her career in enrollment and outreach, helping individuals and families secure health plans tailored to their needs. Over the years, she has held key roles with organizations such as Anthem Blue Cross (Elevance Health Plan), AltaMed, and Benevolence Health Center, where she excelled in enrollment development, business growth, and community engagement.

Sara’s tenure at Anthem Blue Cross was especially impactful, as she surpassed Medicare sales goals through strategic planning and client education, earning certification in ESRD SNP. In addition to her corporate work, she successfully manages her own insurance business, guiding clients through complex coverage decisions with clarity and care. Holding multiple professional licenses and certifications, Sara is committed to providing expert, client-focused service in an evolving industry.

Case Manager

Sr. Phuong Hang Dinh is a compassionate community outreach professional dedicated to serving underserved and vulnerable populations. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in Global Studies from the University of Minnesota and holds a Certificate in Youth Ministry Studies from the Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry.

As a Community Outreach Coordinator at Lambertian Ministry Center, Sr. Hang leads food donation initiatives, develops community partnerships, coordinates events, and connects individuals and families with essential resources. Her previous experience as a Bilingual Religious Education Coordinator at St. Columban Catholic Church included overseeing programs serving approximately 500 students annually while supporting families and volunteers.

Sr. Hang has also coordinated community initiatives providing food, healthcare services, housing navigation, and health insurance assistance to individuals experiencing financial hardship and homelessness. Passionate about public health, social work, and social justice, she hopes to pursue a Master of Social Work and become a licensed social worker, continuing her commitment to empowering communities through compassionate service.

Development

Tisha Custodio is a Psychology major with a minor in Health and Society at Loyola Marymount University, expected to graduate in 2026. She combines her academic interests with a strong passion for wellness, education, and community service. As a Wellness Educator at LMU, Tisha facilitates workshops on mental health, stress management, and holistic well-being while advocating for a supportive campus environment. She also tutors with Lions for Learning, enhancing student engagement and academic success.

Tisha has gained diverse professional experience, including an internship at Sentio University, where she trained in psychotherapy skills, and previous work as a Behavior Interventionist at Turning Point Healthcare. She has also served as a youth mentor with Saving Our Daughters, empowering young women through leadership and confidence-building programs.

Beyond her academic and service roles, Tisha is also an accomplished actress, having starred as a series regular on a Disney Television series from 2019 to 2023.

Social Media

Valerie is a skilled communications professional specializing in social media management, design, and photography. Guided by values of honesty, ethics, and creativity, she is passionate about using digital media to connect communities and inspire meaningful engagement.

Valeria is currently pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in Communications at Universidad Don Bosco in El Salvador, where she also earned a Technical degree in Multimedia. Her experience spans both nonprofit and professional settings—serving as a Social Media Volunteer for My New House in Los Angeles and Parroquia Nuestra Señora de la Asunción in San Salvador, as well as working as a Community Manager and Designer for Via Rio Salon & Spa in Maryland.

Previously, she volunteered as a Translator and Assistant for the National Basketball Federation of El Salvador, supporting international collaboration efforts. Valeria is known for her attention to detail, proactive attitude, and ability to deliver creative, strategic solutions in every project she undertakes.

Case Manager

Viviana Payan is a dedicated student and compassionate volunteer with a strong commitment to service, education, and animal welfare. She is currently pursuing her undergraduate degree in Pre-Psychology at the University of California, Los Angeles, where she is recognized for her academic excellence, earning placement on the Head’s Honor Roll and receiving the National Hispanic Recognition Award.

Viviana has diverse experience in service and community engagement. She currently works as a Customer Service Representative at UCLA’s ASUCLA LuValle Commons, where she thrives in a fast-paced environment while delivering excellent customer care. Passionate about animals, she has volunteered with The Gentle Barn and interned at The Herd Rescue, gaining hands-on experience in animal care and promoting healing connections between people and animals. She has also served her community through The Midnight Mission and as a student tutor at Alverno Heights Academy.

Viviana is bilingual in Spanish and values adaptability, empathy, and resilience.