The Team
Fostering UNITY is driven by a diverse team dedicated to reflecting the vibrant community of caregivers and youth we serve. We prioritize hiring individuals with lived experience and a genuine passion for service.
Our team is here to be relatable, trustworthy, and attuned to the needs of our community. We actively listen to caregivers and youth, providing real-time support, effective advocacy, and intentional programming to meet their needs throughout their journey. We believe in creating a fun, engaging, and supportive environment where everyone feels valued and heard.
Dorothy Daniels
Executive Director & Founder
(she/her/hers)
Dayna Freier
Deputy Director
(she/her/hers)
Alexa Weishaar
Operations & Development Director
(she/her/hers)
Cindi Bertrand
Office Coordinator
(she/her/hers)
Dr. Melissa Daniels
Clinical Director
(she/her/hers)
Faye Holmes
Case Manager
(she/her/hers)
Michelle Valdez
CARE Service Specialist (CSS)
Online Engagement & Client Support Lead
(she/her/hers)
Gina Papa
CARE Service Specialist (CSS)
Youth Lead (LGBTQIA+ Focus)
(she/her/hers)
Keynen W.
Program Associate Intern, iFoster
(he/him/his)
Destiny C.
Program Associate Intern, Extraordinary Families
(she/her/hers)
Board Of Directors
Board President
Pamela Perez, MBA
City of Los Angeles and Adoptive Parent
Vice President
Dorit Saberi, Ph.D.
University of California, Los Angeles Clinical Director, Harbor UCLA Medical Center-Trauma Recovery Foster, and Adoptive Parent
Secretary
Michelle Lewis, MSW
Department of Family and Child Services and Adoptive Parent
Treasurer
Shelly Best
Former Foster Parent
Licensed Accountant
Board Members
Vincent N. Daniels, MBA, RT
Hospital Administrator, Foster and Adoptive Dad
Nichole Arnold
Yolo County First 5 Commission and Relative Caregiver
Non-voting Officers
Assistant Secretary
Dorothy Daniels
Fostering UNITY Executive Director
Assistant Treasurer
Dayna Freier, MAOL
Fostering UNITY Director of Operations