Staff

Sophia
Executive Director
A native of Dallas, Texas, Sophia earned her bachelor's degree in criminal psychology in East Texas. She worked in hotel and resort management in Colorado, Washington, D.C., New York and Maryland before moving to Los Angeles. She soon discovered the Skid Row community. "I volunteered at Central City Community Outreach for a year and it captured my heart. So I made a decision to leave my work in the corporate sector to join the Central City team. My favorite crayon color is burnt sienna. I love the beach and any sport involving it, including surfing, kayaking and deep-sea fishing."

Ryan
Assistant Executive Director
Ryan was born in Whittier, California. He lived there for six years before moving to Illinois for six years and then back to California. He attended La Habra high school and then got his BA in Political Science at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. While at Cal Poly, he played football and was involved with the organization Athletes in Action.  It is through Athletes in Action that he had the opportunity to get involved with the Urban Project, a summer project where athletes from around US serve organizations working in the inner city.  It was here that the Lord really changed his heart for inner city ministry and led him to work with Central City as the Teen Coordinator and now the Director of Programs. He has three little sisters and loves sports. "The most important thing in my life is living for the Lord because I believe that’s what we have been created for."

Melissa
Program Director
Melissa was born and raised in Lakeland, Florida. In 2008, she received her bachelor's degree in Art Education from Asbury College in Wilmore, Kentucky. After graduation she married her husband, and they lived in central Kentucky for two years before moving to Los Angeles in December 2010. Melissa loves spending her free time with her husband playing video games, watching movies, and exploring LA with her friends. She also enjoys working with kids and all things creative. "I had no idea what I was getting into when I came to Central City Community Outreach, but I have absolutely loved every minute of working with the kids here at S.A.Y. Yes! There is no greater job in the world than to get to hang out with these kids every day!"

Tom

Kindergarten through 5th Grade Teacher/Volunteer Coordinator

Tom grew up in the south, and claims Alabama as his home.  He graduated from Auburn University where he earned a bachelor's degree in aviation and business management.  Six years ago he was visiting friends in Los Angeles when he was offered a job, a car, and a place to stay, so he decided to move out west.  Most recently he was managing a restautrant in the Arts District.  After two and a half years there, he felt the Lord call him away.  A few weeks later he ran into Ryan from CCCO and learned about their need for a new teacher. He is now the newest member of our team. "I am excited to serve alongside Central City Community Outreach in a community where I see a lot of beauty." In his spare time, Tom enjoys surfing and reading.