In her role as Executive Director, Lis has the incredible privilege of helping to ensure that our Clubs are meeting the needs of kids and families throughout Santa Cruz County. Since stepping into the Executive Director role in June 2022, she has worked alongside our staff team and Board of Directors to develop strategy, raise funds, and move our organization forward in service to our Club kids.
Andrew Cunningham
Andy (he/his) joined the Boys & Girls Clubs of Santa Cruz County in April of 2022. He brings experience from careers in both academia and nonprofit programs/grants management that directly transfer to the work and goals of BGCSCC. These experiences shape his approach to resource development and fundraising as he looks to both quantify the outcomes of our work and to uplift and center stories from the youth and families we serve.
Katee Freeman
Katee began her career with the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Cruz as a teen, getting her first job as an Activities Aid in the summer of 2000. Shortly after entering the Club, Katee knew that youth development was her calling. Since that time, Katee has held many roles within the club and is now the Area Director at the Downtown Branch.
Alice Graves
Alice Graves is the Unit Director of the Downtown Clubhouse, bringing a strong background in child development and years of experience working with children and families in educational and community settings. With a degree in Child Development, she is passionate about creating inclusive, supportive spaces where young people feel safe, valued, and inspired to grow. Alice’s calm leadership and holistic approach to youth programming help foster strong relationships, positive behavior, and a sense of belonging for every member who walks through the Clubhouse doors.
Ian Olden
Ian Olden is the Director of the Joe & Linda Aliberti Clubhouse, bringing a strong background in youth development and community leadership. He’s passionate about creating safe, inclusive spaces where young people can thrive through mentorship and meaningful programming. Ian looks forward to building strong relationships with staff, families, and the community to support positive youth outcomes.
Silka Jewell
In her role as Clubhouse Director, she brings tremendous care for our youth, leadership for our Live Oak team, attention to detail, and creative approaches to delivering engaging programs for our members.
Hayden Khalaf
Hayden (He/They) joined the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Cruz County in 2022 and is excited to be on board. He comes from a rich background of administrative expertise and non-profit operations management. After graduating with a Bachelors of Arts in Legal Studies from University of California Santa Cruz, he dedicated himself to serving the community at large through the work of local organizations. Hayden often enjoys hiking through the redwood forest and visiting local cafes.
Vanessa Holly
Vanessa Holly (she/her) is the Administrative Coordinator at the Boys & Girls Club of Santa Cruz County, where she ensures smooth operations and supports the team’s mission. A UCSC alumna, she has been with the organization since graduating in 2022, combining her passion for education and psychology with her goal of becoming a child psychologist. Vanessa loves creating—whether it’s artistic projects or essential documents that keep things running—embracing both the creative and practical sides of her work.
Dayanara Escareno
Dayanara works as Front Desk for the Downtown Boys and Girls Club. She’s in her second year of college majoring in childhood education. She hopes to enrich her understanding of children during these prime developmental years. Dayanara grew up in Santa Cruz County and now wants to give back to her community. During her free time she enjoys reading and coloring.
Leilani Lazaro
Leilani Lazaro works the Front Desk at the Live Oak Clubhouse. She is currently a second year student at SJSU and is studying Social Work. During her free time she likes to read books. As a former club member she is grateful to have the opportunity to work in an environment where everyone is treated like family.
CeCe Ruiz-Rocha
CeCe is our Front Desk Receptionist at our Scotts Valley Clubhouse. She plans to attend Cal State Monterey Bay or San Jose State after graduation. She is interested in studying law and psychology, with the ultimate goal of serving as an advocate for Spanish-speaking children and families involved in the justice system.
Heaven Smith
Heaven Smith serves as a Front Desk Manager for the Live Oak Boys and Girls Club. She is in her second year of college at CSUMB and is studying psychology. As a former club kid of the Live Oak Boys and Girls Club, she is grateful and happy to be able to help out the community that helped raise her.
Daniel Kumasaka
Daniel has been a valuable part of the Live Oak Clubhouse for over ten years, providing guidance, friendship and athletic training to our Live Oak Club kids.