Overhead view of a diverse team placing hands together in a sign of unity during a meeting.

Meet the Team

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

Join Us in Building Stronger Communities

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