It starts with Hope.

Everyone deserves a place to call their own.

Yet, stable housing is out of reach for the thousands of Atlanta men, women, and children experiencing the trauma of homelessness.

Our outreach, housing, and case management teams work relentlessly to help our clients move from survival mode to self-sufficiency, providing intensive, personalized care to nearly 7,000 each year.

Join us in transforming lives and communities, one success story at a time.

Who We Are: A 124-Year Legacy

Leadership

About Julio

Julio is an award-winning change-maker and collaborative nonprofit leader with a track record of driving measurable impact for organizations focused on the stability and success of youth and families in low-opportunity communities. He joined Hope Atlanta as CEO in April of 2022 with a strong belief that, in addition to being the #1 state for business, Georgia can become a model for addressing homelessness through collective action. Prior to joining Hope Atlanta, Julio served as COO of Families First. He has also held executive leadership positions at TechBridge and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta. Julio has been recognized as one of Atlanta Business Chronicle’s 40 under 40, Atlanta Magazine’s Atlanta 500, and Georgia Trend’s Top 500 leaders, among other accolades. In 2016, he joined Leadership Atlanta, initiating outreach for domestic and intimate partner violence within Latin and LGBTQ communities. Julio also serves on the boards of Leadership Atlanta, Agape Youth & Family Center, Atlanta Victim Assistance, and the GreenLight Fund. Originally from Colombia, Julio earned a Bachelor’s in Business Administration in Spain and holds a certification in Strategy and Innovation from Columbia University.

About Elizabeth

Elizabeth is a public health practitioner and non-profit strategist who is devoted to creating healthy and equitable communities. Banks brings a valued skill set in performance optimization and program development to HOPE Atlanta. Elizabeth has worked for Families First, the Foundation for Veterans’ Education and Research, UCLA Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, and several consulting agencies, including James Bell & Associates. She holds a Master’s in Public Health from Emory University and, through her work with nonprofits, has specialized in program design, research and evaluation, and strategic management. As an up-and-coming leader in Atlanta, Elizabeth was selected as a member of Atlanta Women’s Foundations Inspire Class of 2022 and Georgia Forward’s Young Gamechanger Class of 2023.

About Kellie

A passionate and dedicated nonprofit leader with a background in social work and fundraising, Kellie has worked in the Atlanta non-profit sector for over 20 years. Kellie is a first-generation college graduate holding a degree in social work from Georgia State University. From there, she worked with children diagnosed with emotional and behavioral disorders. It is her passion for youth and those experiencing homelessness that led her to nearly nine years of service at Covenant House Georgia’s Development Team. In 2020, Kellie was honored to be named one of the Atlanta Business Chronicles’ 40 under 40. She has a huge heart for populations who are underserved in the Atlanta community and loves to engage others in meaningful work. Kellie and her husband, James, reside in Atlanta with their two incredible children. She is thrilled to be part of the long history of Hope Atlanta and is excited about the future impact it will make on Atlanta’s homeless communities.

About Paula

Paula began her career in New York as an auditor specializing in nonprofit, education, and government audits. Paula has held many leadership roles encompassing finance, administration, human resources, and information technology. After moving to Atlanta, Paula began overseeing finance, operations, dining, and human resources for auxiliary services at Emory University. Her educational qualifications include an MBA from Emory Goizueta Business School, a Juris Master from Emory School of Law, and a Master’s in Nonprofit Finance and Human Resources from New School University. She also received postgraduate certificates in Evaluation and Assessment Methods from Agnes Scott College and a Six Sigma Green Belt certification. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Paula is a dedicated volunteer Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) who passionately advocates for services benefiting children in foster care. Additionally, she actively contributes to the empowerment of young adults by teaching financial literacy, equipping them with invaluable skills for future success.

About Sarah

Sarah is a fundraising professional with a passion for nonprofits and furthering their missions through effective fundraising strategies. She uses written communication and authentic relationship-building to create a strong foundation. Sarah has served at multiple nonprofit organizations, including Amana Academy, Skyland Trail, the Georgia Lions Lighthouse Foundation, and consulting firm Coxe Curry & Associates. She is passionate about breaking the cycle of poverty and being a part of HOPE Atlanta’s team. Sarah holds a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication from Georgia College & State University and a master’s in public administration from the University of Georgia.

About Vivien

As Director of Corporate Relations, Vivien brings experience in fundraising and building partnerships between nonprofit organizations and corporations. Vivien is an Atlanta native who began her nonprofit career at the American Cancer Society. Before joining Hope Atlanta, she held a role in Corporate Social Responsibility and led fundraising efforts to support Junior Achievement of Georgia. Vivien is currently finishing her Master of Public Administration degree at the University of Georgia with a concentration in nonprofit management. She has a strong passion for helping underserved communities, supporting animal welfare, and advancing civic engagement.

About Marita

Marita has worked in social services for over 20 years, dedicating her career to helping underserved and at-risk communities. Elliot joined HOPE Atlanta in 2013 as a case manager and has helped Veterans access housing, employment, and other critical resources. She finds purpose in advocating for those in need and providing guidance that empowers change. She has gained experience developing programs and services to meet the needs of vulnerable populations through her roles in public and private organizations. Marita is dedicated to improving the lives of the people she serves and is honored to serve those who have served our country. She holds a bachelor’s in criminal justice from Elizabeth City State University.

About Thomas

About Antoinette

Antoinette has over 38 years of social work experience and a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Tuskegee Institute. She began her career at the Bureau of Child Welfares Decade of the Child Campaign and was an auditor and area administrator for foster care and adoption in New York. She moved to Atlanta and began work with traumatic brain and spinal cord injury clients. Later, she began assisting Veterans at Hope Atlanta. She is an organizer and secretary of Rescue1Centry, a nonprofit supporting the efforts of Metro Atlanta organizations seeking to prevent and/or mitigate the impact of child exploitation and human sex trafficking.

About Adam

A headshot of Adam Hawkins, Hope Atlanta's Director of Outreach and Emergency Services.

Adam joined Hope Atlanta in 2022, bringing a holistic approach to community support and empowerment through his lived experiences. Having spent years living abroad and working with San Francisco’s homeless community, Adam brings an understanding of community empowerment. He has volunteered within the LGBTQ+ community and spent more than 25 years supporting those living with AIDS/HIV. Adam’s experience working with individuals with substance use disorder has allowed him to address homelessness in Metro Atlanta. He is dedicated to serving marginalized populations, offering them assistance and a sense of hope.

About Beverly

Beverly has over 15 years of experience in social services, working with people experiencing homelessness and underserved populations. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in health services. Beverly has an extensive history working in mental health, substance abuse, and the judicial system in Metro Atlanta. Her mission is to continuously strive to make a difference in the community as well as the lives of homeless families, individuals, and underserved populations throughout various counties.

About Tony

Tony has over 20 years of experience in finance and accounting and has worked in many sectors, including corporate, government, and nonprofit. He holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from North Carolina State University and began his career as a Contract and Grants Accountant at Winston-Salem State University. He moved to Atlanta and began work at Coca-Cola, managing the Southeast region’s customer care finances while receiving his MBA from Troy University. His commitment to making a positive impact led him to complete the Executive Leadership Program for Nonprofit Organizations at the University of Georgia’s Fanning Institute for Leadership Development.

About Shelby

Originally from Birmingham, Alabama, Shelby earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Alabama State University and a Master of Social Work from Walden University. She has been with Hope Atlanta’s SSVF program for more than 10 years, providing comprehensive support and advocacy for Veterans facing homelessness. Driven by a profound sense of empathy and a desire to make a difference, Shelby approaches her work with professionalism, integrity, and an understanding of Veterans’ needs.

About Sarina

Sarina joined HOPE Atlanta in 2024, bringing 10 years of nonprofit experience. Her passion for supporting under-resourced communities led her to work for many organizations, including Junior Achievement of Georgia, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta, and the Urban League of Greater Atlanta. Sarina is a Licensed Master Social Worker with a bachelor’s in psychology from the University of South Florida and a master’s in social work from Georgia State University. She has been named one of the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Atlanta’s 30 Under 30, Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals’ 35 Under 35, and a member of LEAD Atlanta’s Class of 2024.

About Latricia

A headshot of Latricia Nation, Hope Atlanta's Sr. Director of Veteran Services

Latricia has an extensive background working with a variety of the homeless population located in Metro Atlanta. Originally from Pensacola, she has a degree in Psychology from Georgia State University, a Master’s in Business Administration, a Master’s in Philosophy and is currently a Ph.D candidate in Public Policy with a concentration in Non-Profit Management. Latricia is a Certified Life Coach as well as a published author.

About Jeffrey

Jeffery Palmer has been providing non-profit social services to the underserved populations in New York City and Georgia for 36 plus years, with the past 17 years at Hope Atlanta.
Jeffery holds a Master of Social Work from Fordham University School of Social Work and a Bachelor of Science from St. John’s University. He continues to be excited and honored for being a part of the Hope Atlanta organization with a 120-year track record of improving the quality of life of thousands of individuals and communities in Georgia. He has had the opportunity to work with in the organization as it evolved into a whole health provider to meet the growing and complex needs of the people and communities within Georgia.

He is steadfast in his commitment to providing a model of best practices, he is dedicated to meeting all individuals with expertise and compassion and for those that he works with he is committed to a work culture that is inclusive, kind, and where employees feel seen and appreciated for who they are and all the work they do.

Jeffery’s personality involves a strong sense of responsibility and loyalty towards the Hope Atlanta Brand and his dedication goes beyond mere commitment and involves a deep level of devotion, passion, and perseverance towards a purpose of service to others.

About Monyca

Monyca joined Hope Atlanta in January 2015 as a case manager. During her tenure, she has guided many individuals to self-sufficiency through various positions within the agency. With eleven years of experience working in social services, Monyca is committed to providing the highest level of care to those in need. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Spelman College.

About Julio

Julio is an award-winning change-maker and collaborative nonprofit leader with a track record of driving measurable impact for organizations focused on the stability and success of youth and families in low-opportunity communities. He joined Hope Atlanta as CEO in April of 2022 with a strong belief that, in addition to being the #1 state for business, Georgia can become a model for addressing homelessness through collective action. Prior to joining Hope Atlanta, Julio served as COO of Families First. He has also held executive leadership positions at TechBridge and Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta. Julio has been recognized as one of Atlanta Business Chronicle’s 40 under 40, Atlanta Magazine’s Atlanta 500, and Georgia Trend’s Top 500 leaders, among other accolades. In 2016, he joined Leadership Atlanta, initiating outreach for domestic and intimate partner violence within Latin and LGBTQ communities. Julio also serves on the boards of Leadership Atlanta, Agape Youth & Family Center, Atlanta Victim Assistance, and the GreenLight Fund. Originally from Colombia, Julio earned a Bachelor’s in Business Administration in Spain and holds a certification in Strategy and Innovation from Columbia University.

About Elizabeth

Elizabeth is a public health practitioner and non-profit strategist who is devoted to creating healthy and equitable communities. Banks brings a valued skill set in performance optimization and program development to HOPE Atlanta. Elizabeth has worked for Families First, the Foundation for Veterans’ Education and Research, UCLA Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, and several consulting agencies, including James Bell & Associates. She holds a Master’s in Public Health from Emory University and, through her work with nonprofits, has specialized in program design, research and evaluation, and strategic management. As an up-and-coming leader in Atlanta, Elizabeth was selected as a member of Atlanta Women’s Foundations Inspire Class of 2022 and Georgia Forward’s Young Gamechanger Class of 2023.

About Kellie

A passionate and dedicated nonprofit leader with a background in social work and fundraising, Kellie has worked in the Atlanta non-profit sector for over 20 years. Kellie is a first-generation college graduate holding a degree in social work from Georgia State University. From there, she worked with children diagnosed with emotional and behavioral disorders. It is her passion for youth and those experiencing homelessness that led her to nearly nine years of service at Covenant House Georgia’s Development Team. In 2020, Kellie was honored to be named one of the Atlanta Business Chronicles’ 40 under 40. She has a huge heart for populations who are underserved in the Atlanta community and loves to engage others in meaningful work. Kellie and her husband, James, reside in Atlanta with their two incredible children. She is thrilled to be part of the long history of Hope Atlanta and is excited about the future impact it will make on Atlanta’s homeless communities.

About Paula

Paula began her career in New York as an auditor specializing in nonprofit, education, and government audits. Paula has held many leadership roles encompassing finance, administration, human resources, and information technology. After moving to Atlanta, Paula began overseeing finance, operations, dining, and human resources for auxiliary services at Emory University. Her educational qualifications include an MBA from Emory Goizueta Business School, a Juris Master from Emory School of Law, and a Master’s in Nonprofit Finance and Human Resources from New School University. She also received postgraduate certificates in Evaluation and Assessment Methods from Agnes Scott College and a Six Sigma Green Belt certification. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Paula is a dedicated volunteer Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) who passionately advocates for services benefiting children in foster care. Additionally, she actively contributes to the empowerment of young adults by teaching financial literacy, equipping them with invaluable skills for future success.

About Sarah

Sarah is a fundraising professional with a passion for nonprofits and furthering their missions through effective fundraising strategies. She uses written communication and authentic relationship-building to create a strong foundation. Sarah has served at multiple nonprofit organizations, including Amana Academy, Skyland Trail, the Georgia Lions Lighthouse Foundation, and consulting firm Coxe Curry & Associates. She is passionate about breaking the cycle of poverty and being a part of HOPE Atlanta’s team. Sarah holds a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication from Georgia College & State University and a master’s in public administration from the University of Georgia.

About Vivien

As Director of Corporate Relations, Vivien brings experience in fundraising and building partnerships between nonprofit organizations and corporations. Vivien is an Atlanta native who began her nonprofit career at the American Cancer Society. Before joining Hope Atlanta, she held a role in Corporate Social Responsibility and led fundraising efforts to support Junior Achievement of Georgia. Vivien is currently finishing her Master of Public Administration degree at the University of Georgia with a concentration in nonprofit management. She has a strong passion for helping underserved communities, supporting animal welfare, and advancing civic engagement.

About Marita

Marita has worked in social services for over 20 years, dedicating her career to helping underserved and at-risk communities. Elliot joined HOPE Atlanta in 2013 as a case manager and has helped Veterans access housing, employment, and other critical resources. She finds purpose in advocating for those in need and providing guidance that empowers change. She has gained experience developing programs and services to meet the needs of vulnerable populations through her roles in public and private organizations. Marita is dedicated to improving the lives of the people she serves and is honored to serve those who have served our country. She holds a bachelor’s in criminal justice from Elizabeth City State University.

About Antoinette

Antoinette has over 38 years of social work experience and a Bachelor of Social Work degree from Tuskegee Institute. She began her career at the Bureau of Child Welfares Decade of the Child Campaign and was an auditor and area administrator for foster care and adoption in New York. She moved to Atlanta and began work with traumatic brain and spinal cord injury clients. Later, she began assisting Veterans at Hope Atlanta. She is an organizer and secretary of Rescue1Centry, a nonprofit supporting the efforts of Metro Atlanta organizations seeking to prevent and/or mitigate the impact of child exploitation and human sex trafficking.

About Adam

A headshot of Adam Hawkins, Hope Atlanta's Director of Outreach and Emergency Services.

Adam joined Hope Atlanta in 2022, bringing a holistic approach to community support and empowerment through his lived experiences. Having spent years living abroad and working with San Francisco’s homeless community, Adam brings an understanding of community empowerment. He has volunteered within the LGBTQ+ community and spent more than 25 years supporting those living with AIDS/HIV. Adam’s experience working with individuals with substance use disorder has allowed him to address homelessness in Metro Atlanta. He is dedicated to serving marginalized populations, offering them assistance and a sense of hope.

About Beverly

Beverly has over 15 years of experience in social services, working with people experiencing homelessness and underserved populations. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s in health services. Beverly has an extensive history working in mental health, substance abuse, and the judicial system in Metro Atlanta. Her mission is to continuously strive to make a difference in the community as well as the lives of homeless families, individuals, and underserved populations throughout various counties.

About Tony

Tony has over 20 years of experience in finance and accounting and has worked in many sectors, including corporate, government, and nonprofit. He holds a bachelor’s degree in accounting from North Carolina State University and began his career as a Contract and Grants Accountant at Winston-Salem State University. He moved to Atlanta and began work at Coca-Cola, managing the Southeast region’s customer care finances while receiving his MBA from Troy University. His commitment to making a positive impact led him to complete the Executive Leadership Program for Nonprofit Organizations at the University of Georgia’s Fanning Institute for Leadership Development.

About Shelby

Originally from Birmingham, Alabama, Shelby earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Alabama State University and a Master of Social Work from Walden University. She has been with Hope Atlanta’s SSVF program for more than 10 years, providing comprehensive support and advocacy for Veterans facing homelessness. Driven by a profound sense of empathy and a desire to make a difference, Shelby approaches her work with professionalism, integrity, and an understanding of Veterans’ needs.

About Sarina

Sarina joined HOPE Atlanta in 2024, bringing 10 years of nonprofit experience. Her passion for supporting under-resourced communities led her to work for many organizations, including Junior Achievement of Georgia, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta, and the Urban League of Greater Atlanta. Sarina is a Licensed Master Social Worker with a bachelor’s in psychology from the University of South Florida and a master’s in social work from Georgia State University. She has been named one of the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Atlanta’s 30 Under 30, Gwinnett Chamber of Commerce Young Professionals’ 35 Under 35, and a member of LEAD Atlanta’s Class of 2024.

About Latricia

A headshot of Latricia Nation, Hope Atlanta's Sr. Director of Veteran Services

Latricia has an extensive background working with a variety of the homeless population located in Metro Atlanta. Originally from Pensacola, she has a degree in Psychology from Georgia State University, a Master’s in Business Administration, a Master’s in Philosophy and is currently a Ph.D candidate in Public Policy with a concentration in Non-Profit Management. Latricia is a Certified Life Coach as well as a published author.

About Jeffrey

Jeffery Palmer has been providing non-profit social services to the underserved populations in New York City and Georgia for 36 plus years, with the past 17 years at Hope Atlanta.
Jeffery holds a Master of Social Work from Fordham University School of Social Work and a Bachelor of Science from St. John’s University. He continues to be excited and honored for being a part of the Hope Atlanta organization with a 120-year track record of improving the quality of life of thousands of individuals and communities in Georgia. He has had the opportunity to work with in the organization as it evolved into a whole health provider to meet the growing and complex needs of the people and communities within Georgia.

He is steadfast in his commitment to providing a model of best practices, he is dedicated to meeting all individuals with expertise and compassion and for those that he works with he is committed to a work culture that is inclusive, kind, and where employees feel seen and appreciated for who they are and all the work they do.

Jeffery’s personality involves a strong sense of responsibility and loyalty towards the Hope Atlanta Brand and his dedication goes beyond mere commitment and involves a deep level of devotion, passion, and perseverance towards a purpose of service to others.

About Monyca

Monyca joined Hope Atlanta in January 2015 as a case manager. During her tenure, she has guided many individuals to self-sufficiency through various positions within the agency. With eleven years of experience working in social services, Monyca is committed to providing the highest level of care to those in need. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Spelman College.

About Dr. Valentin

Dr. Valentin is a professional in behavioral health and human services. He holds a Master of Social Work in clinical mental health and a Ph.D in Social Sciences with a concentration in neuroscience behavioral biology. Dr. Valentin has certificates in Global Public Health, Health Disparities, International Conflict Resolution, and Clinical Forensics. He completed a fellowship in affective neuroscience and genetics at Emory University and another in medical neuroscience at Emory School of Medicine. Dr. Valentin is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Master Addiction Counselor, and Certified Forensic Examiner. He specializes in social behaviors, the biology of suicide, and severe mental conditions.

Rocky Atkins​

Board Chair
Consultant

Ellen Brooks

AGCO Corporation
Secretary & Treasurer

Kenneth Abele

Ernst & Young

Sarah Cash

Georgia Power Company

Mandy Eidson

Self-Help Credit Union
Young Professionals Board Chair

Laura Deisley

Walker Deisley Strategic Consulting

Jerry Getant

Berkadia

Angela Kolar

Norfolk Southern

Headshot of Matt Keith.

Matt Keith

Bank of America

Ashley Luft

The Home Depot

Gina Espinosa-Meltzer

Hope Beckham Espinosa

Cheryl Naja

Alston & Bird (Retired)

Karthikeyan Ramasamy

Georgia-Pacific

Headshot of Oscar Shepherd.

Oscar Shepherd, Jr.

Chick-fil-A

Richard Slaton

JP Morgan Chase & Co.

Headshot of Dr. Marc Sonenshine.

Dr. Marc Sonenshine, MD

Northside Hospital

Matt Westmoreland

Councilman, City of Atlanta

Alexis Nicole White

Genuine Parts Company

Damon Elmore

State Bar of Georgia

Dr. Raymond Allen

Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist
Georgia Perinatal Consultants​

Rocky Atkins​

Consultant
Board Chair of Hope Atlanta

Phillip Barbosa

VP Regional Accounts
LocumTenens.com

Bill Bolling

Founder, Board Chair & Senior Advisor
Food Well Alliance

Charlie Chesnutt

Senior Vice President
Genuine Parts

Ann Cone

Senior Vice President
CBRE

Ann Cramer

Senior Consultant
Coxe Curry & Associates

Cinnamon Davis

Chief Counsel, Labor & Employment
Southern Company Gas

Darion Dunn

Managing Partner
Atlantica Properties

Kirk Elifson

Research Professor
Emory University

Aaron Goldman

President
Perennial Properties

Jack Hardin

Founding Partner
Smith Gambrell & Russell LLP

Scott Holcomb

District 81 Representative
GA House of Representatives

Sonji Jacobs

Partner at Incisive

Ken Keen

Associate Dean for Leadership Development
Emory University's Goizueta Business School

Merritt Lancaster

Co-Founder/Principal
Bridger Properties

Kathryn Lawler

CEO
Saint Joseph’s/Mercy Care

Milton Little

President & CEO
United Way of Greater Atlanta

Matthew Moffett

Partner, Lawyer
Gray, Rust, St. Amand, Moffett & Brieske

Letitia Robinson

Assistant State Director,
Office of Supportive Housing
DBHDD

John Spillman

Partner
Smith Gambrell & Russell LLP

Aaron Swain

President of Property Management/Operations
Columbia Residential

Steve Tedder

President
Live Oak Capital Partners LLC

Matthew Toddy

Former General Counsel
Bon Secours Health System
Pro-bono attorney for Hope Atlanta

Meaghan Shannon Vlkovic

Vice President and Market Leader Enterprise
Community Partners

Jennifer Wootten, MD

Medical Director,
Outpatient Psychiatry
Grady Hospital

David Zanaty

COO
Roofstock

Sheila Bilimoria

Attorney

Ashley Bossert

Formerly at International Justice Mission
Marketing Committee Chair

Maranie Brown

BlackRock
Governance Committee Chair

Kaitlin Carreno

Eversheds Sutherland

Edwin Coffie

Microsoft

Blake Durham

Berkadia

Mandy Eidson

Self-Help Credit Union
Young Professionals Board Chair

James Fradette

JFrog

Sierra Green

Coca-Cola

Leonard Henry

Berkadia

Alex B. Jones

Georgia Tech

Will Jourdan

Tapp Finance
Board Vice Chair, Special Events Committee Chair

Chrissy Lewis

PointeNorth Insurance Group

Michael MacDonald

CBRE
Development Committee Chair

Danielle Norris

KPMG

Alyssa Nowlin

Ernst & Young

Carolina Ramos

City of Atlanta Mayor's Office of International and Immigrant Affairs

Chris Rezek

JP Morgan & Chase

Stefanie Small

INROADS

Manny Portillo

Public Relations &
Marketing Consultant

Ryan Woods

The Beck Group

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