About

Melissa Melendez

A 2nd Cup Operations Coordinator

10+ years FOH & BOH Restaurant Experience

Born in Washington, D.C., but raised in Houston, Melissa is dedicated to creating a welcoming environment at A 2nd Cup. Since discovering her passion for coffee in 2016, she has devoted herself to mastering the art of coffee making while fostering community in Lindale Park. Alongside her team, she is committed to raising awareness, one cup at a time. Melissa loves taking long road trips with her husband and their furry companion, exploring both the beach and the mountains.

Osiris Lux

Barista

A Houston native, Osiris Lux is a passionate individual known for her hard work and infectious sense of humor. An avid reader and live music enthusiast, she loves discovering new places and sharing experiences with others. As a skilled Barista, Osiris enjoys creating memorable moments over coffee, all while pursuing a degree in medical laboratory technology with the goal of making a positive impact in healthcare.

Darinka Rosales Escobar

Barista

Darinka is an enthusiastic Barista originally from Mexico, who relocated to Houston at the age of 5. With a strong passion for running and continuous learning, she finds joy in the beauty of sunsets and sunrises. Darinka values quality time with her dog and enjoys attending live music events. Committed to community service, she aims to support nonprofits in providing resources for those in need, all while delivering exceptional coffee experiences.

Timeka Walker

Chief Executive Officer

Master of Social Work, University of Houston | Bachelor of Science in Psychology, University of Houston| Non-Profit Leadership Alliance | Executive Leadership Certification at Rice University | FBI Citizens Academy

Timeka Walker is an innovative leader with over 20 years in nonprofit leadership. Timeka is dedicated to serving the most vulnerable and marginalized in our society to bring dignity and love to each individual. Before joining the fight to end human trafficking, Timeka worked with vulnerable youth, HIV positive homeless men and women, and those suffering from mental illness. Throughout her career Timeka has served in various leadership roles in programs, operations, administration, and finance.

Joining UAHT in 2015, Timeka passionately leads the organization in its efforts to offer trauma-informed programming and serving as a unifying force for the anti-human trafficking movement.

Timeka received her Licensed Master of Social Work from the University of Houston and holds an Executive Leadership Certification from Rice University.

Elaine Andino

Chief External Affairs Officer

Master of Public Policy, George Mason University | Bachelor of Arts in English, Baylor University

For 15 years, Elaine’s passion for ending human trafficking has fueled her work. From research and legislative work in Washington DC, to working with survivors in South Korea, to hosting an anti-trafficking conference in Virginia, to running fundraising and communication efforts in Houston, her zeal for ending exploitation continuously deepens. Elaine loves partnering with donors and coalition members who are dedicated to creating systemic change in Houston.

Gwen Jefferson

Director of Development

Master of Public Administration, Texas Southern University | B.A. in Journalism, Texas Southern University | Grant Writing Certification, Rice University

 “We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” – Aristotle

Serving for over 20 years in the nonprofit industry, Gwen has fought hard to make an impact in the lives of people who have experienced domestic violence. Now, she brings the same zeal to fight against human trafficking. Gwen brings extensive experience to UAHT! She served on the grant review board at United Way and Mississippi State University. Not only has Gwen served on the YWCA’s Board of Directors, but she also forged a major “Lip Stick Campaign” with Mary Kay Cosmetic that paved the way for Mary Kay to become a philanthropist that fuels the movement to stop domestic violence.

Titus Benton

Chief of Staff

M.A. in Historical Theology Lincoln Christian University | B.A. in Biblical Studies & Student Ministry Saint Louis Christian College | Excellence in Nonprofit Leadership Certification

Titus Benton has served United Against Human Trafficking since 2021. Hired as the Chief Operating Officer, he also served as the Chief Operating & People Officer before being named to the Chief of Staff role in May of 2024. A Missouri native, Titus Benton has spent his entire career inspiring and facilitating growth in organizations and communities. With twenty years of leadership experience in pastoral and nonprofit work, an expertise in communications, and a passion for people, Titus’ core values in life are peace, curiosity, and courage. Since moving to Texas in 2011, Titus has grown to love Houston for the rich diversity, incredible restaurants, and friendly people. In his free time he loves to read, listen to country  music, and lose at chess.

Michael Everett

Director of Finance

Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, University of Louisiana-Monroe| Military Veteran| Certificate Vocational Nurse| QMRP|QMHP|QHP

A native of Louisiana. Michael Everett is an innovative thinker with over 30 years in Finance Management, Higher Education, Workforce Development, Business Development, HR Management, Case Management, Auditing, Nonprofit, Grant Management, Social Services, and Leadership. Michael has dedicated his life to serving others.

Au’Vonnie Alexander

Director of Programs

Master of Arts in Sociology, Texas Southern University; Bachelor of Science in Communication, Fresno State University

Au’Vonnie’s optimism for motivating, inspiring, and uplifting those in under-served communities is what led her to UAHT. Her passion, drive, and commitment focus not only on herself but on those around her. An Oakland native with over 10 years experience working in many populations through education, mentoring, outreach, and advocacy, Au’Vonnie commits her career to advance those in all demographics, establishing relationships to build partnerships, and creating new programs to provide incomparable visualizations of fighting so all may live free.

Erika Washington

Chief Operations Officer (COO)

Ph.D. Public Policy & Administration, Specializing in Non-Profit Management, Walden University | Master Public Policy & Administration, Governors State University | Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies, Governors State University | Non-Profit Management Certification

A Chicago native, Erika Washington has substantial experience working in education and nonprofit sectors specializing in finance, budgeting, and grants management. Erika has over 15 years experience researching qualitative and quantitative data impacting criminal justice systems and have executed large research projects for the United States Probation & Parole. She was also a Grant Reviewer for the United States Department of Education. She joined UAHT to further her passion in such meaningful and purposeful work. She spends her personal time, writing, researching, and spending time with her three daughters. She moved to Houston in 2020 to enjoy the culture, diversity, and nonetheless, the food.

Nate Arneson

National Pathway Manager

Bachelor of Science in Biology, University of Minnesota—Moorhead

Aspiring to see a sustainable and unified effort to fight human trafficking, Nate manages the The Pathway, a secure, online referral database for individuals who have experienced human trafficking. Nate brings his experience with nurturing inter-agency relationships in Guatemala to facilitate a culture of collaboration within the coalition and analyze our needs as a unified voice to fight this crime at a macro level. His passion for building partnerships ensures that our communities within and external to Houston are ready to address those needs and assist survivors from identification to restoration.

Ken Henry

Chief Communications & Partnerships Officer

Bachelor of Science in Mass Communication with a focus on Broadcast Journalism, McNeese State University I Fashion Merchandising Business degree, Brooks College of Arts and Design I Federal Government Human Trafficking Leadership Academy I Coro Fellowship Northern California. 

Ken is a native of Lake Charles, Louisiana and have spent over 20 years working in the social services, fashion, and entertainment industries in Southern California. In 2017 Ken graduated from the National Human Trafficking Leadership Academy . Mr. Henry has served as executive director for his own anti-human trafficking 501(c)3 serving survivors and thrivers of human trafficking. He currently serves on the board for Restoration Diversion Services in Compton, CA and Texas Victims Services Association representing Houston, TX. Ken is one of the founders and of the Compton Human Trafficking Task Force and National Black Faith Coalition Against Human Trafficking. Mr. Henry is excited to be working in the anti-human trafficking space here in Houston, Texas. Ken is truly a Renaissance Man who thrives on inspiring others through bringing hope, inspiration, and love to them.

Misa Nguyen

Prevention & Outreach Facilitator

Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts, University of Texas at Austin

“What Starts Here, Changes the World.” Misa internalized this motto from her alma mater and believes that individual efforts create a collective impact against human trafficking and social justice issues. With her eyes on the future, Misa plans and strategizes projects today that propel UAHT’s mission and vision into tomorrow. Aside from her dedication to UAHT, Misa delights in sharing with others Houston’s culturally diverse food scene and Fair Trade food, clothing, and goods.

Emma Chong

Grant Writer

Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Certificate in Latin American Studies, Regis College

Emma first came to Houston through Americorps, teaching ESL to Latinx immigrants at an East End community organization. What was supposed to be only an 11-month term of service became a full-time residency! Emma uses her passion for writing to convey UAHT’s important mission to current and potential donors.

Andrew Wright

Finance Manager

Bachelor of Business in Finance, University of Houston – Downtown

Andrew has always wanted his work to impact the community.  As a native Houstonian, he knew he had to be a part of an organization that combats human trafficking.  He has long been aware of this problem and now UAHT is giving him the opportunity to make a difference.  His previous experience working to fight against homelessness showed him exactly how vulnerable some individuals are.  Andrew helps with accounting duties to ensure the organization is operating efficiently so UAHT can progress toward ending human trafficking. 

Anna Johnston

Communications Coordinator

Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing, University of Houston

 Anna loves Houston—the museums, the free events, the diversity. She grew up here, attended university here, and got married here. That’s why when she heard that her beloved hometown was home to thousands of human trafficking victims, she knew she needed to act. Anna paired her love of storytelling with her passion to bring freedom to Houston and became UAHT’s Communications Coordinator. Through blogs, newsletters, and social media, Anna aims to transform difficult and complicated facts into understandable and meaningful conversations.

Shea Bland

Programs Coordinator

Shea is a native Houstonian and is motivated about serving and uplifting all people in the community. She is a survivor advocate, lived experience expert and student at the University of St. Thomas working toward a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology with a minor in Criminology, Law and Society. Out of her passion for helping survivors of domestic violence, child abuse, human trafficking and sexual assault, Shea ran her own consulting business for three years. She is a developing author and speaker, sharing her story of liberation from eight-years of lived experience in the adult entertainment industry. She is committed to putting an end to sexual exploitation.

Elyse Lewandowski

JVC/Data Coordinator

Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance, Saint Louis University

Elyse is a native to St. Cloud, Minnesota and has recently finished her degree in Finance at Saint Louis University. She is currently serving as a Jesuit Volunteer in Houston. She is passionate about eliminating human trafficking from Houston and the broader world after engaging with victims in her hometown. She is excited for this year long opportunity and eager to keep learning and growing as the year progresses.

Fanny Zepeda

Community & Engagement Coordinator

Fanny relocated from Austin TX where she attended the University of Texas at Austin. However, most of her childhood was spent in her native country of Honduras. As a former educator, Fanny learned the importance of creating relationships within the community and the families that she served. Passionate about advocacy and education, her leadership skills and entrepreneurial spirit led her to call Houston home. Throughout her life as an immigrant living in America, she heard stories of other woman and children from her country who were victims of trafficking. By joining UAHT she hopes to continue to advocate and educate her community by empowering them through their journeys.

Sara Jayne Breuer

Collaboration Manager

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science-International Affairs and French with a Minor in Peace and Conflict Studies, University of California Riverside

A California transplant, Sara Jayne works toward a better world where all are free to pursue their dreams and live free from exploitation and violence. When she learned about trafficking in 2008, Sara Jayne knew she wanted to do something. She dove into research and helped enforce anti-trafficking legislation throughout Los Angeles County. For five years, she worked at the American Red Cross, teaching communities how to prepare for disasters. She also served clients in shelters, met with families after home fires, and went door-to-door to teach people about fire safety.  She is passionate about working in diverse communities, bringing together different people towards a common purpose.  Sara Jayne brings her love of community theater and entertaining others into delivering engaging and informative presentations. It has been her dream to work professionally in human trafficking for over a decade, and she is overjoyed to work with UAHT. As the Collaboration Manager, she oversees Education, the Speaker’s Bureau, and the United Against Human Trafficking Coalition. She also works with lived experience experts, partner organizations, and community members on innovative programs and events to impact the anti-trafficking landscape. 

Emerald Ealy-Dennis

Programs Manager

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science & Master of Arts in Public Administration, Southern University and A&M College

Emerald was born and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana and has been in Houston for 18 years. She has worked in the social service field the last 18 years as an investigator, case manager, and advocacy coordinator with children and families that become a part of the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services System.

Emerald enjoys spending time with her family, traveling the world, and shopping. She is a wife and mother of one beautiful daughter. She hopes to continue advocating for individuals in the community and is elated to link arms in the fight against human trafficking by preventing exploitation, educating the community, and empowering survivors in her role as program manager.

Paul Speights

Outreach & Prevention Coordinator

Doctorate in Religious Education – Gospel Ministry Outreach Theological Institute

Paul is a life-long resident of Houston. His career path is one of hard work and tenacity. Paul was raised on the rough streets of Fifth Ward, working as hard as he could in various positions to make a better life for himself. From delivering medical supplies, to working as a PBX operator then up the chain in a mental health facility, to facilitating corporate training sessions for huge companies. He has always had a passion to help people, especially those in the foster care system and those battling mental health issues. Paul is also a Certified S.A.M.A. facilitator, Certified Life Coach, and Certified Christian Counselor.

As you can tell, Paul loves to help others! He lives with his wife of 20 years and their 2 beautiful children. Paul loves jazz and wrestling!

Bailey Anderson

Development and Coalition Manager

Bachelor of Arts in Political Science – Louisiana Tech University

Juris Doctorate & Doctorate of Comparative Law – Louisiana State University, Paul M. Hebert School of Law

Barred in State of Louisiana 2022

Bailey is a Southwest Louisiana native. Her passion for human trafficking and domestic abuse survivors has been and is her driving force in her education and career endeavors. Bailey’s legal experience ranges from drafting legislation to filing protective orders and custody suits for abuse survivors. Her lifelong goal is to make people’s world a safer place in hopes that they can live in full autonomy and create an abundant, free life for themselves and loved ones. Her dream is to move toward creating diverse, safe, and unified communities for all—a community where systemically underprivilege individuals have a voice.

Bailey enjoys painting (murals & acrylics), practicing herbalism, camping, studying esoteric topics, and traveling with friends.

Dalton Taylor Johnson

Prevention & Outreach Manager

Bachelor of Social Work, University of Houston-Clear Lake

Taylor has been in the fight against human trafficking since 2019. As the overlap between various systems of oppression made themselves more evident in his life, he dedicated himself to inspiring change in every sphere of life – every individual relationship, every community, and our culture as a whole. Taylor approaches identifying human trafficking situations and preventing exploitation by inviting and empowering those he serves to explore new ways of thinking and being. Taylor is committed to fighting against trafficking by using his expertise to encouraging men and boys to walk alongside UAHT as we inch closer to a vision of a better world: a world without exploitation and gender-based violence.

Taylor is in love with philosophy, can talk about music for hours and comes well-equipped with more than enough terrible dad jokes.

Juan Campos

Prevention & Outreach Coordinator

Bachelor of Science in Criminology, University of Houston-Clear Lake

Juan is a recent graduate from UHCL with his B.S. in Criminology. After learning about human trafficking and it’s impact on individuals with lived experience, he decided to look for an organization that can help him live out his passion to bring an end to human trafficking. His motivation is to make a difference in the world. In his spare time, he enjoys listening to classical music, cooking, and spending time with his dogs at the park. He fights to live in a society where everyone can experience freedom.

Taylor Woodruff

Prevention & Outreach Manager

Bachelor of Criminal Justice, Sam Houston State University| International Justice Fellows

A native of Houston, Texas. Taylor Woodruff’s experience ranges from overseeing and managing Houston’s 24/7 trafficking hotline, developing, and implementing community engagement strategy for trafficking organizations in Houston.

Taylor enjoys catching up on his ever-growing reading list, listening to Bob Dylan, and taking advantage of Houston’s art and museum scene.

Anansia Redmon

Case Manager

Bachelor of Arts in Social Work, Prairie View A&M University| Licenses Real Estate Agent

A native of Houston, Texas. With 10 years of case management experience, Anansia prides herself on being skilled when it comes to delivering services, advocating for the vulnerable, and building community partnerships. By joining UAHT Anansia hopes to be a contribution by continuing to deliver services to clients and empowering them to live their best life.

Anansia enjoys spending time with her 2 children, learning new things, eating, and traveling. Anansia also enjoys showing properties to potential homeowners on the weekends.

Blanca Alanis

Development and Community Engagement Manager

Blanca was born in Nuevo Leon Mexico and was raised in Houston. She has 15 years of experience working in the non-profit sector. She’s a civil and human rights activist. A protector of Mother Earth and Indigenous Treaties. She is a Holistic Practitioner of Traditional Folk Medicine of Mexico. Blanca is a published poet and performer. She is also an independent photojournalist and uses culture and art to bring awareness. Serving others and being a voice for the voiceless is her calling.

She is a mother of two beautiful souls. Enjoys spending time with her dogs and being in nature.

SIMON ELLANKIYIL

Operations Manager

Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Argosy University / Masters in Business Administration with a concentration in Management, University of Houston – Victoria

Simon grew up in Chicago but has lived in Houston for over 20 years. Throughout his career Simon has assisted organizations to come together as a team and provide exceptional service to meet the client’s needs. He has experience working in banking, nonprofit organizations, and project management. Outside of work he really values the time he gets to spend with wife, children, and extended family. Additionally, Simon is a big sports fan and enjoys relaxing by watching basketball, football, or baseball.

AMBER JOHNSON

Director of Development

Bachelor of Arts, University of Houston- Downtown I Executive MBA, Quantic School of Business and Technology 

A native of Tampa Florida. Amber’s experience ranges from direct health support services as well as business development establishing nonprofits in several states and creating strategic growth plans in each new region she developed. Amber is excited to be working in the anti-human trafficking space here in Houston, Texas

Amber enjoys spending time with her family, listening to podcasts, and exploring the world.

RHONDA R. HOLMES

Director of Coalition and Expansion

Bachelor of Science in Business, Marketing, University of Phoenix

With over 20 years of experience, Houston native, Rhonda Holmes has mentored more than 700 young people. She gives young voices a platform for action and activism. As a community organizer, Rhonda plans impactful events for vulnerable communities, creating opportunities to make a real difference. Rhonda spearheads initiatives that continue to touch countless lives. Her dedication has made a lasting impact on youth, parents, and senior citizens across Houston. Her love for superheroes truly reflects the champion she is for the underserved community.

Rhonda enjoys her three little humans that she has the privilege to love on, meaningful conversations, building relationships and lots of good food.