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About Us

Discover comprehensive information about the dedicated leadership team responsible for guiding and overseeing the operations, strategic direction, and impactful initiatives of Victory Starts Now.

Diversion

We prioritize community-based mental health services over incarceration. Our approach seeks to replace the traditional use of county jails for mental health treatment with supportive, rehabilitative alternatives that address underlying issues rather than punishing those affected.

Re-Entry Services

Upon reintegration, we offer tailored support services designed to address the unique needs of each individual. Our goal is to heal the harms inflicted by the justice system and facilitate a smooth transition back into the community, ensuring that each person we help can lead a stable and fulfilling life.

Consultations

Ready to transform the impact of our justice system in your community? We provide consultation services for businesses and individuals eager to initiate similar changes in their own communities. Reach out today to learn how we can help you implement these programs yourself. Become Empowered to lead the change in your community.

Our 3-step process for repairing the damage done by the justice system includes:

Our Approach

Our Team

Meet the individuals shaping our strategic vision and leading the charge in making a positive impact on the lives of the homeless community in Los Angeles.

Viktoriya Stinson

President of the Board & Chief Executive Officer

As a dedicated Attorney, Viktoriya has channeled her expertise into public service, fiercely advocating for and upholding the rights of our community’s most vulnerable members with unwavering commitment.

Dr. Cynthia Davis

Board Member & Director of Mental Health & Therapeutic Services

Dr. Cynthia Davis is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with 15 years of experience in the mental health field. She has held positions within the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, South Central Los Angeles Regional Center, the Office of Diversion and Reentry, and private practice. Dr. Davis is dedicated to helping individuals eliminate or control troubling emotional symptoms, relationship issues, and life challenges, promoting better functioning and increased well-being.

Kasey Lee

Board Member & Chief Financial Officer

Based in Pasadena, California, Kasey is a skilled accountant who provides invaluable tax services to clients yearly, covering personal and corporate needs. His profound grasp of financial systems is a boon to our operations, and he plays a key role in enhancing financial literacy among our staff and members.

Our Leadership

Our leadership is comprised of dedicated individuals who bring together their extensive knowledge and resources to drive Victory Starts Now forward. At the helm of our organization is a Board of Trustees, consisting of nine members, who play a crucial role in shaping our future. This board is responsible for setting the strategic direction of our company, evaluating the impact and measurement of our initiatives within the community, overseeing current policies and agendas, and making key decisions regarding financial allocation and major personnel hires.

The direction established by the Board of Trustees is carried out by the officers of Victory Starts Now, who are supported in their mission by our various directors. The directors leverage their skills and expertise to execute company-wide objectives, collaborating closely with both employees and independent vendors. Together, we are committed to delivering exceptional quality and service to our members, ensuring that our organization continues to thrive and make a positive impact in the community.

Brooke Bardin

Sr. Director of Clinical QA

Brooke Bardin, LCSW, has been a dedicated and compassionate provider in the mental health field since 2001, specializing in severe and persistent psychosis. Throughout her extensive career, she has excelled in empowering highly stigmatized and vulnerable populations to pursue their recovery goals.

Ilham Tahir

Director of Clinical QA

Ilham is passionate about women’s issues and has effectively facilitated family reunification efforts. Her expertise and deep commitment to her clients make her a vital advocate and resource. She has recently focused on severe mental illness (SMI).

John Fouts

Director of  Clinical Training

John Fouts, our Clinical Director of Training, boasts an impressive career of over 23 years in community mental health and homeless services. His dedication to client-centered care, particularly the Recovery Model of mental health, is unwavering. As a seasoned trainer, John specializes in Harm Reduction, Crisis De-escalation, and Low-Barrier Services, bringing a unique set of skills and expertise to our team. His passion and knowledge ensure the delivery of high-quality care and effective training programs.

Charles Horn

Director of Program Administration

Drawing from over 18 years of sobriety and a wealth of life experience, Charles Horn is dedicated to uplifting those facing challenges. Guided by the values of empathy and support instilled by his parents, Charles has built a career centered on helping others. He finds immense reward in witnessing the profound transformations individuals achieve through the Victory Starts Now program. Charles's academic background includes three Associate of Arts degrees in social and behavioral sciences, human services, and addiction studies.

Zarina Kang

Director of Clinical QA

Zarina brings a wealth of experience and a steadfast belief in the potential of every member at VSN. Her commitment to excellence ensures that our services are impactful and meaningful. Zarina's positive mindset and professional expertise uplift our entire team, fostering an environment where our members receive the highest quality of care.

Richelle Moore

Director of Nursing

Nursing runs in Richelle’s bloodline, fueling her passion for helping people. At VSN, she combines her meticulous nature with innovative systems to ensure the optimal physical and mental health of our members. Richelle's attention to detail guarantees that medication and overall well-being are always in excellent condition.

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PROGRESS

See the extensive progress we’ve made.

We’re committed to addressing homelessness in Los Angeles. While we still have more work to do, we’ve made considerable progress in achieving our nonprofit's goals.​

15

YEARS

OF EXPERIENCE

23+

COMPASSIONATE VOLUNTEERS

20

LOCAL OFFICES

3,500+

LIVES HELPED

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