Jolene is the Founder and CEO of Elevate & Empower. She is dedicated to helping individuals “Break Through Barriers” and access the support they need to thrive. With a strong background in medical and behavioral health administration, she brings both passion and professionalism to her work. Jolene also serves as Co-Owner and Director of Admissions and Billing at Whiteside Healing and Wellness. Known for her servant’s heart, she meets people where they are and connects them with vital resources. Drawing from her personal journey and professional expertise, Jolene is committed to making a lasting, positive impact on everyone she encounters. Her leadership is rooted in compassion, resilience, and the belief that everyone deserves a chance to heal, grow, and reclaim their lives with dignity and hope.

Joel Whiteside, LPC, CBCC, CAMS, is a licensed therapist and CEO/Founder of Whiteside Healing & Wellness, with over 12 years of experience in the nonprofit and behavioral health fields. A published author, entrepreneur, and recovery activist, Joel uses his unique blend of expertise and lived experience to guide others toward healing and empowerment. Deeply passionate about creating positivity, Joel strives to inspire individuals to embrace personal growth and transformation. He loves seeing the world through a lens of positivity, focusing on the potential for change in every situation. Committed to helping people navigate challenges, he fosters hope, resilience, and lasting recovery. Joel’s mission is to inspire people to unlock their true potential and live more fulfilled, empowered lives.

Cassandra is an Account Executive at Oomnitza with a passion for helping others, especially those seeking a second chance. As the first in her family to graduate college, and also the first to serve time in prison, she understands the highs and lows of transformation. Her incarceration became a turning point, leading her to rebuild her life with purpose. Now, she uses her experience to mentor and advocate for women on similar journeys. She believes with all her heart that lasting change is possible with support, love, and connection.  She is proof that redemption and success can go hand in hand.

Jennifer is a powerhouse in the healthcare advocacy world, bringing passion, purpose, and lived experience to everything she does. She currently works with the Steinberg Institute, California’s leading nonprofit dedicated to mental health and substance use policy—where she channels her energy into creating real, lasting change. Advocacy isn’t just a job for Jennifer; it’s her calling. Her personal and professional journeys are deeply intertwined, and she’s driven to make a meaningful impact by turning challenges into opportunities for others. In recovery since the age of 17, Jennifer proudly celebrates 32 years of recovery and uses her story to inspire hope, healing, and transformation in the communities she serves.

Shawna Cacciatore is the Administrator and co-owner of C3 Renovations, a small home renovation company known for its personalized service and quality craftsmanship. With a passion for creating beautiful, functional spaces, Shawna plays a key role in managing operations, client relations, and keeping projects running smoothly from start to finish.

A dedicated mom of three, Shawna balances business ownership with family life, often drawing inspiration from her children and home life in her work. Outside of the office, she enjoys practicing yoga and spending time in nature—activities that help keep her grounded and fuel her creativity.

Brittany Hoch is the Office Manager of her family-owned HVAC business, where she brings leadership, organization, and heart to daily operations. Before joining the family business full-time, she worked as a Behavioral Health Technician and spent over eight years as a case manager, primarily supporting pregnant women with substance use histories. Brittany is also known for her advocacy in local correctional facilities, helping incarcerated women access treatment and build paths to recovery. A certified Reiki Master and owner of a spiritual healing business, she offers holistic services focused on wellness and self-empowerment. Celebrating over a decade in recovery, Brittany remains an active, passionate member of the recovery community, using her lived and professional experience to inspire and support others on their healing journeys.

Dalton Hoch is a seasoned entrepreneur and the driving force behind a successful family-owned HVAC business established in 1987. He recently launched a second HVAC company, expanding his commitment to top-quality service and strong customer relationships. With a deep understanding of business operations, Dalton leads with integrity and a people-first mindset. He brings eight years of committee experience in event planning, fundraising, and financial management to his business and community work. An avid traveler, he has explored over 35 countries, fueling his appreciation for culture and global perspectives. Dalton is also a proud member of the recovery community, celebrating over eight years and using his personal journey to inspire others, promote hope, and give back in meaningful, lasting ways. His mission is to lead by example, champion second chances, and create a legacy rooted in service, compassion, and transformation.