We are proud to introduce our dedicated team of volunteers for the Seeds of Hope Veterans Program, each bringing unique skills and experiences to support our mission. Together, we are committed to supporting veterans and their families in the communites of El Monte/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 indigenios 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.

Dr. Maribel Garcia, Superintendent of El Monte City School District, brings clear vision and strong guidance, as well as dynamic organizational leadership skills.

Portia Phillips, a business partner and advocate at BBSI, brings business expertise and robust community outreach skills.

Bea Guadarrama, retired EMPD officer, offers her energetic service-oriented perspective and commitment to veterans.

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 a major bank and a newspaper, where he utilized his skills as a copywriter. His diverse expertise 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 adddition to being an active city advocate. Chief Weldon has also spearheaded countless giveways 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 committment to giving back stems from his deep love for our country and flag. In addition to serving on the SOHFV Comittiee , David also serves as co-chair at a non-profit dedicated to helping families  with specal needs and is also a volunteer at USO Ontario Airport, March Air force Base and Fort Irwin. 

Rose Lazo, I work as a district liaison. in the El Monte City Schoo Disrict. I host parent workshops to empower families in supporting their children's education. I actively volunteer in my community, most recently chaperoning a student trip to Washington, DC. I am married to a Navy Veteran, and I am a passionate advocate for veterans’ support and recognition.  

Alex Arana, Alex 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.

Lisa Long, Lisa is a lifelong resident of Glendora. She was a public school teacher for thirty-four years retiring in 2024. During her teaching career, Lisa especially enjoyed teaching her strudents patriotism, including an apprecation for our veterans. She is honored to serve US veterans as a volunteer of Seeds of Hope for Veterans.