We are proud to introduce our dedicated team of volunteers for the Seeds of Hope for Veterans Program, each bringing unique skills and experiences to support our mission. Together, we are committed to supporting Veterans and their families in the communities of El Monte and South El Monte, ensuring they receive the care and opportunities they deserve.

 

**John and Laurie Harrold, from the Law Offices of Harrold and Harrold offer legal expertise, community leadership and mastery in non-profit organization.

Dianne Daniels, Youth Court Coordinator at the Intertribal Court of Southern California, brings passion and needed resources for the indigenous veteran population.

Katie Sanchez, Department Manager of Design at In-N-Out, contributes creative insights and vigorous organizational acumen.

*Karen Rogel, a retired teacher with Pomona Unified School District, offers a wealth of educational knowledge and mentorship.

*Michael Rogel, a retired school administrator with El Monte City School District, brings administrative experience and a life-long dedication to promoting family and community. 

*Al Jimenez, worked for major banks and a newspaper, where he utilized his skills as a copywriter. His diverse expertise has contributed significantly to the financial, communications and creative industries that have been a part of his career.

Ken Weldon, retired Police Chief from the El Monte Police Department, founded the Dukes Baseball Team and the Elmonteans, a community-based group, in addition to being an active city advocate. Chief Weldon has also spearheaded countless giveaways and essential food staples to hundreds of needy families in the greater El Monte community. His dedication to service and community support has made a significant impact on local lives.

Kendra Beltran, comes to us with a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to social justice, making her a valuable addition to our team. Kendra has dedicated her career to supporting women and children who have been affected by domestic violence.

*David L. Hernadez, Navy Veteran. David takes great pride in continuing to serve those who have selflessly served our country. His commitment to giving back stems from his deep love for our country and flag. In addition to serving on the SOHFV Committee, David also serves as co-chair at a nonprofit dedicated to helping families with special needs and is also a volunteer at USO Ontario Airport, March Air Force Base and Fort Irwin. 

Rose Lazo, works as a district liaison in the El Monte City School District.  She hosts parent workshops to empower families in supporting their children's education, and is an active volunteer in her community, most recently chaperoning a student trip to Washington, DC. She is married to a Navy Veteran and is a passionate advocate for Veterans’ support and recognition.  

**Alex Arana is a SoCal native with a passion for serving humanity. He is currently the Executive Director at Riverside Meals on Wheels and previously held leadership roles at other nonprofits such as Palomar Health and Our Sunday Visitor. He has a love for God, his family, and his country.

Robert Becerra, retired law enforcement proudly served LAPD, currently working  as a Campus Supervisor for the El Monte Union High School District. Serving as a Commissioner for the City of South El Monte Community Service Commission. Robert has remained deeply involved in the community, serving in several community-oriented service clubs, President of the Elmonteans.

**Jeff Seymour, Retired educator and administrator with over four decades of service in the El Monte City School District, including approximately 25 years as Superintendent. Longtime leader in public education and higher education instruction, with deep ties to the El Monte community.

** Terri Haverly, has a career spanning 20 years as an economic development practitioner, workforce planning, business advisor and have a track record of successful management experience, accounting expertise, organizational skills, creativity, and people skills

Pearl Arreola, Devoted mother of four boys, former medical professional, and dedicated stay-at-home mom passionate about serving her community. I proudly coach a special needs baseball team, volunteer supporting United States veterans, and work with the Embrase Foundation helping inner-city children receive scholarships for arts and education. I am a strong advocate for women, families, and human rights. A lifelong lover of music who studied music in college, I continue to enjoy sports and teamwork by playing on a coed softball team with my husband.

Joseph Rogel, Dedicated Special Education Teacher with 10 years of experience serving students in Pomona Unified School District and Chaffey Joint Union High School District. Passionate about supporting student growth, fostering inclusive learning environments, and giving back to the community as a youth sports volunteer coach.

**Daisy Tham is a Southern California native with over 20 years of experience as a public-school educator and currently operates a successful real estate business dedicated to helping families achieve their real estate goals. As a mother of two active boys, Daisy enjoys running, cooking, and spending time cheering on her sons at soccer and swim meets. With a genuine passion for serving others and supporting the community, Daisy is honored to serve on the advisory committee for Seeds of Hope for Veterans and contribute to its mission of supporting those who have served our country.

**John Tham, with over 20 years of experience in sales and leadership, John currently serves as a Regional Manager for a global eCommerce software and logistics company. Raised in El Monte, John is passionate about giving back to the community and is honored to support Seeds of Hope for Veterans in its mission to serve veterans and their families.

* Executive Board Members

** Advisory Committee Members