Founder and Board President

Dr. Chase is an experienced behavioral health and human service professional with over 30 years of experience providing clinical counseling, therapy, substance-use disorder, training, case management, treatment, and outreach services to clients in the DC metro area. She brings experience as an administrator, case manager, counselor, juvenile justice leader, residential treatment provider, program developer, and entrepreneur.

Vice President

Mr. Crews is an experienced behavioral health and human services professional with over 30 years of industry experience. Currently in the role of Senior Vice President at MBI Health Services LLC. Previously held leadership roles at the D.C. Department of Behavioral Health. Heavily involved in re-entry programs in the District, and he was very instrumental in the introduction of the Adult Day Treatment Program at MBI.

Board Treasurer

Mr. Cresswell is an experienced organizational and financial professional with over 25 years of experience, owner of Urban Tax & Accounting Services, LLC and Urban Pyramids, LLC. Education includes an MBA from Johns Hopkins University and a BA from Jackson State University.

Board Member

Ms. Thompson is a licensed professional counselor in both Washington, DC, and Maryland with over 19 years of experience in the social service industry including managing a private practice, case manager, individual and group counselor, supervisor, trainer, and director. Education includes a Master of Arts degree in Rehabilitation Counseling with a specialty in Marriage and Family Therapy at Maryville University in St. Louis, MO.

Board Member

Julia Edwards is a dedicated healthcare leader and transformational strategist with over 12 years of experience in clinical case management, healthcare operations, and strategic initiatives. As Vice President of a nonprofit, she leverages her expertise in process innovation, research, and technology-driven solutions to drive impactful change and enhance healthcare outcomes for diverse populations. Julia remains dedicated to advancing healthcare equity, fostering innovation, and driving meaningful change within communities. Her leadership continues to inspire transformative impact in the nonprofit sector.

Board Secretary

C. Gittens, Ed.D, MSW is a seasoned higher education professional with over 30 years of non profit experience. She has held leadership roles at top research universities, including Associate Vice Provost and interim Deputy Vice Chancellor at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Currently, she serves as the CEO and Principal Consultant of B. ELLAvated Consulting, where she guides education and nonprofit organizations through strategic initiatives to advance their mission, equip talent, enhance performance outcomes, and secure funding.