Staff

Melissa has dedicated her entire professional career to youth development, with nearly 25 years of service in Sonoma County. A key leader at Chop’s Teen Club for 23 years, she currently serves as Executive Director, following 12 years as Program & Events Director. Melissa is passionate about creating empowering environments and opportunities that help youth build confidence and prepare for their futures. Her extensive experience includes working with teens from diverse cultural and economic backgrounds and developing programs focused on mentorship, sexual orientation, gender, and juvenile justice. Recognized for her leadership and impact, Melissa was honored with the Women in Business award and was featured in NorthBay Business Journal’s “One’s to Watch.” She is also a graduate of Leadership Santa Rosa Class 36, further demonstrating her commitment to community enrichment. Active in youth advocacy, Melissa serves on several youth-focused committees for the City of Santa Rosa and Santa Rosa City Schools. When not at work, she enjoys spending time with her three sons, aged 17 to 22, and remains dedicated to fostering positive outcomes for youth in both her personal and professional life.

With over 15 years of nonprofit experience and 25 years working with youth, Kevin brings a wealth of expertise to Chop’s Teen Club. His background includes running camps, working with children with autism, and facilitating youth leadership programs where he fostered inclusive and supportive environments. Kevin specializes in empowering teens through wellness, environmental awareness, and social justice projects. A UCSC graduate with a BA in History and Literature, Kevin also holds an MA in Modern European History from SJSU. Outside of work, he is a father, partner, public speaker, utility cyclist, nature lover, and advocate for sustainable communities. Kevin is deeply passionate about the intersection of the built environment, nature, and human cultures, and he’s dedicated to creating opportunities for young people to lead and thrive.

Angela brings over 15 years of nonprofit leadership experience to her role at Chop’s. A proud California native, she holds a BA in Human Development from SSU and an MA in Counseling from USF. In addition to fundraising for Chop’s, Angela supports clients in the community as an Associate Marriage & Family Therapist. She was honored with a “40 Under Forty” award by the North Bay Business Journal and is a graduate of Leadership Santa Rosa. Angela loves spending time outdoors with her family, whether gardening, camping, or enjoying the beach.

Katie has over 25 years of nonprofit experience and a strong foundation in business and organizational leadership. She holds a BA in Business from Sonoma State University and an MA in Organizational Leadership from the University of San Francisco. Passionate about driving positive change and building strong teams, Katie is also the proud mother of three sons, aged 20, 23, and 27, and Sadie, the Chop’s Dog. She enjoys traveling, sports events, and planning parties and fundraisers.

Mark, a California native, earned two BAs and an MBA in Finance while living in Hawaii. With over 20 years of financial expertise and additional experience in HR management, Mark remotely manages Chop’s finances from Milwaukee, where he resides with his family. He enjoys rugby, gardening, and camping in his hybrid travel trailer.

A Berkeley native, Molly moved to Sonoma County in 2007 and earned her BA in American Multicultural Studies from Sonoma State University. She is a mother of two elementary-aged children and loves adventuring outdoors with her family. Her favorite treat is the orange brioche from Sarmentine Bakery in Santa Rosa.

A Santa Rosa native and former Chop’s Teen Club member, Isidro brings a personal connection and a strong passion for youth mentorship to his role. With a background in running and supporting youth sports camps, Isidro is committed to creating positive, supportive environments where teens can thrive. His experience as a basketball coach and mentor reflects a deep belief in the power of sports to build confidence, teamwork, and resilience in young people. Outside of work, Isidro enjoys staying active, coaching basketball, and spending quality time with family. Returning to Chop’s as a staff member is a full-circle moment, and Isidro is proud to give back to the community that helped shape him.

Diane is a proud Sonoma County transplant, originally from Los Angeles, who has quickly embraced the welcoming spirit of her new community. At the front desk, she is dedicated to supporting youth and families with a friendly smile, a listening ear, and a helping hand, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and cared for. Diane loves being part of a team that values connection, growth, and community. In her free time, she enjoys writing, listening to music, and expressing herself through singing and dancing like no one is watching.

Not only is Damien the current College & Career Coordinator at Chop’s Teen Club and for Petaluma City Schools, but he has also been dedicated to working with youth since the age of 16. His experience includes coaching, collaborating with nonprofits to improve equity in lower-income neighborhoods, and working with city parks and recreation departments to help operate teen recreation centers and support initiatives at both the high school and junior high school levels.

As a youth from the inner city, Damien has always felt a strong responsibility to give back to the communities that supported him, with a special focus on empowering young people. A former college athlete, he earned his degree in Business Communications from the University of Washington – an achievement made possible through the guidance of mentors who supported him along the way. Today, he finds the greatest fulfillment in mentoring and witnessing youth and communities grow stronger and more prosperous.

Sydney grew up in Sonoma County and is a Chop’s Alum. She earned a BA in Sociology and Studio Arts from the University of California, Santa Cruz, and is currently pursuing her MA in Museum Studies at San Francisco State University, with an emphasis on Curation and Education. Sydney’s favorite mediums include oil painting, mixed media sculpture, welding, ceramics, and textiles (sewing, leatherwork, knitting, and crochet). On the weekends, you can find her at Copperfield’s Books or in her private studio painting for an upcoming show.

Phil has been a performing musician for over 50 years and is a multi-instrumentalist with the ability to play and teach string, wind, and percussion instruments. He loves sharing his expertise with teens in Chop’s music room, helping them quickly learn to play their favorite instruments and discover the joy of making music.

Cortez, a Santa Rosa local and proud Chop’s Member Alumni, has a passion for gaming, technology, and community engagement with youth. He enjoys creating a safe, tech-driven environment where teens can explore their creativity and unlock new possibilities. Cortez is dedicated to making a positive impact by inspiring and supporting the next generation.

Hannah is originally from Lodi, California, and recently earned her Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice and Criminology from Sonoma State University. She began her journey at Chop’s as an intern and quickly discovered a passion for supporting youth in a meaningful way. Hannah values the opportunity to build strong, authentic connections with members and to be a consistent, encouraging presence in their lives. She loves being part of a community that prioritizes growth, support, and belonging. In her free time, Hannah enjoys spending time with her dogs and taking scenic drives to the beach.

Chef Steve Rose is a seasoned restaurateur and culinary expert who began volunteering at Chop’s after being inspired by its mission. He leads cooking classes, teaching teens essential culinary skills and healthy eating habits, and shares his passion for organic cooking through his YouTube show, The Organic Rose. Heading our Catering program, Chef Steve takes pride in showcasing the capability and professionalism of Chop’s catering crew at community events.

Mira is from Sacramento, California, and is currently majoring in Criminology and Criminal Justice at Sonoma State University. She chose Chop’s for her internship to gain hands-on experience working with teens and staff while making a positive impact in her community. Mira appreciates the welcoming, supportive environment at Chop’s and is excited to be part of a team that uplifts youth. In her free time, she enjoys playing video games, listening to music, playing the guitar, and spending quality time with family and friends.

Ricky is from San Mateo, California, and is majoring in Criminology and Criminal Justice at Sonoma State University. A lifelong athlete, he has played many sports over the years, with basketball being his favorite. Ricky chose Chop’s for his internship because he is passionate about serving the community and being a positive mentor for teens. After graduating this spring, he plans to pursue a career in law. Outside of work and school, Ricky enjoys staying active and spending time outdoors.

Jesus grew up in Santa Rosa, where he attended Roseland Elementary, R.A.M.S., and Roseland University Prep. He is currently majoring in Criminology and Criminal Justice with a minor in Sociology at Sonoma State University. Jesus chose Chop’s for his internship because he sees it as a meaningful place to connect with and support the next generation. He values being part of a community-centered organization and building strong relationships with youth. In his free time, Jesus enjoys playing soccer, going on hikes, and exploring new views and outdoor spaces.