Staff
Connie Russell
Connie is the Executive Director at PWC and has been with the organization since its inception. Connie earned her Bachelor of Science in Business, with an emphasis in Management, from San Francisco State University and has over 30 years of business and contracting experience. She retired from the federal government, the General Services Administration (GSA) in San Francisco. Connie has a Certificate in Project Management from the University of California, Berkeley, and is a National Contract Management Association member. Her commitment to social justice and equal opportunities motivates her work with PWC.
Executive Director
Jose Nicasio joined People Who Care Children Association (PWC) in March 2022 and currently serves as Program Director. Since stepping into this role in July 2023, Jose has played a key role in expanding PWC’s programs, strengthening school and community-based partnerships, and advancing healing centered services for youth across East Contra Costa County. Jose holds a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice from California State University, Sacramento, and brings a background in leadership and operations from his time working in management at Amazon. His professional journey reflects a deep commitment to social justice, youth development, and building equitable systems of care for young people facing academic, social, and emotional barriers. As Program Director, Jose oversees program development, school- and community-based services, workforce readiness initiatives, and collaborative partnerships, ensuring programs remain youth-driven, culturally responsive, and grounded in community need. He is especially passionate about creating supportive spaces where young people are encouraged to step outside their comfort zones, build confidence, and recognize their own potential. Jose approaches his work with the belief that when young people are met with consistency, care, and opportunity, they are capable of creating meaningful change in their own lives and communities.
Jose Nicasio
Program Director
Veronica Pope
Veronica Pope has served students throughout the East Bay area in both in-school and after-school capacities. Most of her career was as a mental health intervention specialist working with high, middle, and elementary school children in Alameda and Contra Costa counties public school systems. She founded the People Who Care Children Association (PWC) and has since continued to support at-risk youth and their families. She is a recipient of a Jefferson Award for public service. Veronica encourages young people and adults to get involved in mentoring programs.
Mental Health Resource Specialist
Adriana was born and raised in Guanajuato, Mexico. She moved to Brentwood, CA, at 12, received her high school diploma from Liberty High School, and learned English as a second language. Adriana began working at Village Nurseries in Brentwood, California, where Adriana worked for six years as a crew leader, building experience in leadership and Management. She decided to take on a new challenge and join an administrative training program to gain the skills needed to work in an office. Adriana completed the program in 2020, gaining technical skills and business certifications. In July 2021, she came to the PWC team as an office assistant; from 2022 to the present, she has been the office manager. "I have always been motivated by helping others as I grow and develop myself personally and professionally."
Adriana Campos
Office Manager
Adtsiri Hernandez, born in the vibrant culture of Guanajuato, Mexico, embarked on a new journey at the age of 9 when she moved to Antioch. After completing her education at Antioch High School, she dedicated herself to helping others as a Direct Support Professional. Three years later, she took a courageous step to work at Southwest Key Programs, where she provided a safe haven for unaccompanied youth ages 10-17. Driven by a desire to grow, Adtsiri participated in ACT training at Opportunity Junction, further preparing herself to make a positive impact. In her free time, she finds joy in arts and crafts, attending soccer games and cherishes peaceful walks in the park, reflecting her appreciation for life's simple pleasures.
Adtsiri Hernandez
Program Facilitator
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Melanie is a former neuroscientist turned grant writer and fundraising consultant with nine years of experience helping growing organizations secure vital funding. She collaborates closely with PWC team members to craft emotionally compelling, data-driven narratives that resonate with funding bodies. In her spare time, Melanie enjoys biking through San Francisco's many hills and exploring her creative side through oil painting.
Melanie Das
Grant Writer
Board of Directors
As a founding partner at Ahatis, Dan provides innovative solutions to his clients utilizing a mix of strategy and technology. Prior to Ahatis, Dan was Vice President of Technology & Strategy at Conagra Brands in Los Angeles, Omaha, and Chicago. Dan started his career working for Accenture in Los Angeles. Dan received his MBA from Claremont Graduate University and his Finance Degree from Brigham Young University (BYU). Dan serves on the Board of Directors of the BYU Alumni Association. He enjoys spending time with his family, golfing with friends, and officiating high school football for the CCFOA. He has mentored/coached youth throughout his life in various roles within his church and the local community.
Dan Jones
Board President
After graduating from UC San Diego with a BA in Quantitative Economics, Thad started his career over 30 years ago in international trade and logistics. Currently, Thad is a Vice President of Sales for Paramount Export Company, an International Produce Trading company selling to over 40 countries Worldwide. His leadership skills range from not only being one of the owners of Paramount, but from being a coach in various sports, along with team captains on his baseball teams through college, to earning the Eagle Scout rank at the age of 17. He is from Oakland, living in Danville and is proficient in the Spanish language.
Thad Ferre
Board Member
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Helen earned a master’s degree in psychology from the University of Phoenix. She has a bachelor’s degree in social work with a minor in Psychology. Apart from her educational foundation and background, Helen has acquired knowledge and skills working in various fields. In the education field, she worked as a school counselor in a middle and high school setting, giving her opportunities to work with several minors and young adults. She also has experience working as a counselor for a drug rehabilitation program where she experienced the challenges of those dealing with addiction and mental health issues. Helen currently works in the field of criminal justice, dealing with youths and adults. In her leisure time, she enjoys reading, travelling, serving in her local church and mentoring.
Helen Obinyan
Board Member
Miguel Alvarado
Miguel Alvarado studied Journalism in Mexico City and brings a strong background in project management and community engagement. He previously served as a Project Manager for leading marketing companies in Mexico before relocating to the Bay Area, where he has worked across various roles in the service industry. Miguel is a self-employed independent worker in the East Bay and an active parent in the People Who Care community, with his teenage children participating in PWC programs. He has served on multiple parent committees in the Pittsburg Unified School District, including DELAC and ELAC, as well as community school committees supporting student and family success. In addition to serving on PWC’s Board, Miguel facilitates emotional intelligence workshops for Monument Impact and has collaborated with the organization on several community benefit initiatives. His passion for family, community empowerment, and youth development continues to guide his service and leadership.
Board Member
Andrea Zarate, a proud Pittsburg High School graduate and PWC alum, serves as the Alumni Advisor and Non-Voting Member on our board. Despite facing significant challenges and personal hardships in her early years, Andrea has demonstrated remarkable resilience, maturity, and a steadfast commitment to personal growth. Currently pursuing her studies, Andrea brings a fresh and invaluable youth perspective to PWC. Her creativity, compassion, and integrity enrich our mission, inspiring both her peers and the next generation of leaders. We are honored to have her insight and dedication as part of our team.
Andrea Zarate
(PWC Alumni Advisor/Non-Voting Member)