Behind Building Resilient Communities is a passionate network of leaders, practitioners, and advocates committed to strengthening communities before, during, and after crises. Our team brings expertise in emergency preparedness, public health, faith-based leadership, climate justice, and community engagement — all rooted in service and collaboration.
Our Staff
Our staff leads program development, partnerships, training, and community engagement efforts that bring our mission to life across California.
Debra Williams
Founder/CEO
LaQuita Gray-Baker
Fund Development Director
Tamica Foots-Rachal
Education & Training
Consultant | Advisory Board
Christen Irving
Marketing and Revenue Strategist
Consultant
JoAnna Battle
Marketing Operations
Consultant
Harmonie Malengo
Executive Marketing Assistant
Consultant
Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors provides governance, strategic oversight, and leadership guidance to help advance our mission and expand our impact.
Jonathan Buffong
President
Youth Action Project (YAP)
John Epps
Treasurer/Acting Secretary
Creative Excellence Business Services, Business Leader
Anuj Desai
Member
Southern California Edison, Senior Advisor, Public Affairs
Matthew Pierson
Member
State of California Employment Development Department, Unemployment Insurance
Program Administrator
Dr. Reginald Woods
Senior Pastor
Life Changing Ministries, San Bernardino
Marci Coffey
Member
Inland Empire Health Care, Director, Community Partnerships
Greg Jones
Member
San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, Community & Special Needs Liaison, Public
Affairs Division
Our Collective Commitment
Advancing preparedness and resilience
Promoting equity and inclusion
Strengthening faith and community partnerships
Building systems of support that help communities thrive