Our Team
Our Mission
We provide long-term housing and support for at-risk communities, allowing them to develop the tools necessary to transition into society with the skills and knowledge required for successful autonomous living.
Administrators
Therese Kennedy,
Executive Director | Co-Founder
Therese's journey is marked by a deep commitment to serving her community, especially vulnerable populations like aged-out foster youth and survivors of human trafficking. Her co-founding of Kastles 4 Hope (K4H) alongside her nephew, Christopher Ortiz, speaks volumes about her dedication to addressing pressing social issues.
Therese's extensive experience in education, particularly her work with at-risk students, underscores her understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized youth. Her roles in career guidance, job training, grant writing, and program development demonstrate her multifaceted approach to empowering students and facilitating their transition into adulthood.
Having earned a Master's Degree in Educational Administration and served in various educational leadership positions, Therese brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her endeavors. Her background as a volunteer in diverse roles within schools and community organizations reflects her hands-on approach and genuine passion for making a difference in the lives of others.
Through her years of service and dedication, Therese embodies the principle of giving hope and guidance to future generations. Her work with K4H is a testament to her belief in shaping lives and providing opportunities for those who need it most.
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Meet the Board
Rachel Purcell,
Board Secretary
Rachel Purcell's dedication to service and community engagement shines through her various roles and volunteer efforts. As the Secretary for Kastles 4 Hope, she brings her passion for helping others and her belief in the organization's mission to the forefront.
In her current role as office manager and partner at Engenuus Energy LL, Rachel demonstrates her ability to balance professional responsibilities with her commitment to making a positive impact. Her partnership with the company underscores her entrepreneurial spirit and her capacity for collaboration.
Rachel's adherence to Martin Luther King Jr.'s service philosophy reflects her deep-seated belief in the power of altruism and its ability to uplift individuals and communities. Her volunteer work with organizations such as the food bank, animal services, and employment with the YMCA showcases her diverse interests and willingness to support various causes.
Rachel's "helper" nature through her involvement with Kastles 4 Hope speaks volumes about the organization's potential to inspire and mobilize individuals toward meaningful action. Her optimism and belief in the limitless possibilities of Kastles 4 Hope's impact highlight her enthusiasm for contributing to the well-being of deserving individuals needing housing support.
Rachel Purcell's dedication to service and community engagement shines through her various roles and volunteer efforts. As the Secretary for Kastles4Hope, she brings her passion for helping others and her belief in the organization's mission to the forefront.
In her current role as office manager and partner at Engenuus Energy LLC, Rachel demonstrates her ability to balance professional responsibilities with her commitment to making a positive impact. Her partnership with the company underscores her entrepreneurial spirit and her capacity for collaboration.
Rachel's adherence to Martin Luther King Jr.'s service philosophy reflects her deep-seated belief in the power of altruism and its ability to uplift individuals and communities. Her volunteer work with organizations such as the food bank, animal services, and employment with the YMCA showcases her diverse interests and willingness to support various causes.
Rachel's "helper" nature through her involvement with Kastles 4 Hope speaks volumes about the organization's potential to inspire and mobilize individuals toward meaningful action. Her optimism and belief in the limitless possibilities of Kastles 4 Hope's impact highlight her enthusiasm for contributing to the well-being of deserving individuals needing housing support.
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Lisa Sayers
Board President
Lisa, the Board President of Kastles 4 Hope, brings a wealth of experience and a passion for service to her role. With a background spanning 30 years in Corporate America, where she excelled in leading and coaching dynamic teams in multiple capacities across the West, Lisa's transition to becoming a Life Success Coach was a natural evolution of her lifelong commitment to making a difference in service.
In 2023, Lisa made the courageous decision to align her professional endeavors with her true passion and purpose, leading her to the forefront of Kastles 4 Hope's mission. Her dedication to serving communities in need is evident by her volunteer work with organizations such as the Sacramento Food Bank, Habitat for Humanity, Toys 4 Tots, Dress 2 S.O.A.R., Boy & Girls Club of America, and City Year.
As Board President of K4H, Lisa is driven by the opportunity to amplify her impact and work in synergy with other non-profit organizations to provide lasting housing solutions for at-risk communities. Her leadership, combined with her unwavering commitment to social responsibility, makes her a formidable advocate for positive change within her community and beyond.
Robert LeBlanc,
Board Treasurer
Robert LeBlanc has been a dedicated educator and administrator for over 23 years In Southern California. He has dedicated his educational career to serving the underprivileged and disenfranchised communities and continues his work through his commitment at Kastles 4 Hope. His diverse background as an educational advisor, teacher, and director equips him with valuable expertise in supporting at-risk populations from various backgrounds. Robert's Master's Degree in Educational Administration and extensive experience in educational leadership positions and nonprofit boards demonstrate his professionalism and commitment to making a difference.
Thank you to our Volunteers and Business Partners
Volunteers
Cherise Audet,
Assistant Director
Cherise serves as the Assistant Director at Kastles 4 Hope, driven by her lifelong commitment to aiding those in need. Her journey has been guided by a sincere desire to support disadvantaged youth and offer guidance to women facing challenges. Motivated by her son and Kastles 4 Hope co-founder, Christopher Ortiz, Cherise found renewed purpose in retirement. Joining the Kastles 4 Hope team has allowed her to amplify her passion for making a difference, enabling her to contribute meaningfully to broader community impact.
Cherise thrives on collaborative work with the dedicated team at K4H, where every member plays a vital role in the organization's mission. With a shared vision for the future, Cherise sees boundless potential for K4H to address housing needs not only in California but also beyond its borders. Her goal is to expand K4H's reach, making a significant impact in communities far and wide.
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