Robert Banghart serves as the Vice President of Community Integration for Shine A Light Foundation and is the Program Manager for CrossRoads. His personal journey from homelessness, which lasted five years above and below ground, took a pivotal turn when he received a scholarship to Freedom House. Now, Robert shines as a beacon of hope, dedicated to helping others find their second chance.

George Petty, Programs Director at Shine A Light, specializing in behavioral health. Since 2020, he has been working directly with individuals who face the challenges of alcoholism and addiction. What sets George apart is his personal connection to the cause, being a person in long-term recovery himself and a certified peer recovery support specialist. Driven by a genuine desire to serve others, George approaches his work with a profound sense of compassion and basic human kindness. George’s mission is clear – to approach others with empathy and fairness, aiming to contribute positively to the community and break down the barriers of stigma associated with homelessness and substance use disorder. George draws inspiration from his family, particularly his wife Nancy and son Adam. Their unwavering support serves as a constant reminder for George to continue growing on his journey through recovery. What makes George’s story truly remarkable is that he started his relationship with Shine A Light as a client. This unique perspective allows him to honor and respect each individual’s journey.

Brent Nowak is a dedicated and integral member of Shine A Light, leveraging his profound personal journey to bring hope and support to those facing homelessness and substance use disorder. As a person in long-term recovery who has triumphed over a decade of homelessness and drug abuse, Brent embodies resilience and serves as a beacon of inspiration for others on their journey toward stability. Brent’s expertise extends beyond Case Management, encompassing a multifaceted background in various critical areas. His prior role as a Court Liaison with Freedom Behavioral Health equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of legal processes and diversion programs. This experience enhances his ability to navigate complex situations, offering nuanced support to individuals entangled in legal challenges while fostering collaboration between legal systems and social services. In addition to his roles in case management and court liaison, Brent has actively engaged with the community, recognizing the importance of building bridges between individuals and the support networks available to them. His community engagement initiatives reflect a commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for those experiencing homelessness. As a Community Liaison at Crossroads of Southern Nevada, Brent has played a pivotal role in establishing and maintaining connections between the organization and the broader community. Brent’s journey and diverse professional background demonstrate his holistic approach to supporting individuals on their paths to recovery and stability. Whether through Case Management, Court Liaison duties, community engagement, or fundraising efforts, Brent remains dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of others, fostering a sense of community and creating pathways to a brighter future for those he serves.

Donica Martinez, born on December 16, 1980, in Pomona, CA, is a dedicated Case Manager at the Shine A Light Foundation, Community Liaison for Crossroads of Southern Nevada and a P.L.E. (Person with Lived Experience) Coordinator/Lived EX Consultant contracted with the Nevada Homeless Alliance. Having called Nevada her home for the past 21 years, Donica’s life journey has been nothing short of remarkable.

For seven years, Donica experienced the harrowing realities of homelessness, four of which she spent living in tunnels, desperately seeking refuge from a traumatic situation and battling addiction. In her darkest moments, she made the courageous decision to turn her life around, and this marked the beginning of her remarkable transformation.

A year and a half ago, Donica made the pivotal choice to accept help from The Shine A Light Foundation. Emerging from the shadow of homelessness, she chose to participate in the Shine A Light I.P.A.T.H.(Instant placement with access to treatment and housing) program and, with unwavering determination, successfully completed the program, proudly earning her graduation. Today, she stands as a shining example of resilience and strength, having transitioned from a program participant to a staff member, serving as a dedicated Case Manager.

Before officially joining the Shine A Light Foundation as a staff member, Donica contributed her time and energy, volunteering multiple days a week. She emerged as a key figure among the volunteer community, taking on leadership roles for outreach teams and orchestrating care pack building sessions on a weekly basis. Notably, she continues to play a pivotal role in chairing a weekly meeting for Shine A Light scholarship recipients, providing guidance and mentorship.

Approximately one year ago, through the I.P.A.T.H. program, Shine A Light recognized Donica’s potential and referred her for a “Get Well” job opportunity at the Nevada Homeless Alliance. She started as a Peer Vaccine Ambassador and a P.L.E. (Person with Lived Experience) at a modest weekly wage of $200.00. Donica’s dedication, hard work, and commitment quickly propelled her upward within the organization. She eventually assumed the role of Rapid Pop-Up Coordinator, PLE Coordinator, and Lived Experience Consultant for the Nevada Homeless Alliance, significantly contributing to the organization’s mission.

Finally, a life-changing opportunity came knocking, and Donica was offered a position as a Case Manager. This role perfectly aligned with her deep-seated passion to serve individuals who have experienced homelessness, mirroring her own journey. As a Person with Lived Experience, she strives every day to amplify the voices of those who have endured or are currently experiencing homelessness and substance use disorders. Donica is unwavering in her commitment to provide high-quality services with compassion and empathy, ensuring that the individuals she serves receive the support they need and deserve. Through her remarkable journey and tireless dedication, Donica Martinez exemplifies the transformative power of resilience, hope, and unwavering commitment to helping others.

Bryon Johnson is a dedicated professional who has made a profound impact as a property manager within the context of sober living communities. His unique blend of professional expertise, lived experience in recovery, and commitment to fostering positive change sets him apart as a compassionate leader. What truly distinguishes Bryon is his lived experience in recovery. Having triumphed over personal challenges, he brings a deep understanding of the complexities individuals face during their journey towards sobriety. This unique perspective enables him to connect with clients on a profound level, fostering an environment of trust and empathy. Bryon Johnson’s commitment to personal and professional growth is evident in his successful completion of 8th District’s specialty court program. This accomplishment attests to his resilience and determination, showcasing his ability to navigate challenges and emerge stronger. This personal milestone further solidifies his credibility in the field, as he understands firsthand the transformative power of structured support systems. Driven by a passion for positive change, Bryon actively advocates for the well-being and empowerment of those on the path to recovery. His approach to case management goes beyond mere administrative tasks; he actively seeks out opportunities to uplift and inspire clients, fostering an atmosphere conducive to sustained recovery.

Mario Johnson is a dedicated professional with over three years of experience in the behavioral health field, specializing in homeless outreach and case management. As the lead case manager for the homeless outreach partnership with the City of North Las Vegas, Mario plays a pivotal role in connecting individuals experiencing homelessness with essential resources, housing solutions, and Continuity Case Management. His work is driven by a deep personal commitment to helping others, informed by his own journey of long-term recovery from substance use disorder and homelessness. Mario’s leadership and compassion are evident in his daily interactions, where he strives to make a lasting impact on the lives of the individuals he serves. His lived experience offers a unique perspective, allowing him to approach his work with empathy, understanding, and a profound sense of purpose. Beyond his professional endeavors, Mario is a devoted husband and loving father, values that underscore his strong commitment to family and community. His passion for helping others and his unwavering dedication to his role make him an invaluable asset to the outreach team and the broader community.