MEET THE TEAM
Supporting Youth, Women & Families
ELAINE CROCKER
FOUNDER / PRESIDENT OF BOARD/ EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Elaine Crocker: A Story of Resilience, Transformation, and Impact
Elaine Crocker’s life is more than just a story—it’s a testament to the power of perseverance, healing, and the unwavering strength of the human spirit. For over two decades, she has dedicated herself to helping others, using her own experiences to inspire and uplift those facing adversity.
Elaine’s journey was shaped by the harsh realities of childhood trauma and sexual assault. Without a strong support system or positive outlets, she struggled through juvenile delinquency and years of drug addiction. Many would have seen these challenges as insurmountable, but Elaine refused to let her past define her future.
Through rehabilitation, community support, mentorship, and faith, she not only found the strength to heal but also the determination to help others do the same. Her transformation is proof that with the right support and resources, anyone can reclaim their life and rewrite their story.
Elaine didn’t just survive—she thrived. She became a mentor to young girls, providing them with the guidance she once longed for. She founded Yet Stand, Inc., an organization dedicated to empowering survivors and advocating for education, outreach, and support for those affected by trauma.
Her impact extends beyond mentorship—she turned her pain into art. Elaine wrote and produced “Yet I Stand”, a powerful stage play based on her own experiences. This annual production has been performed for over a decade, touching countless lives and shedding light on the resilience of survivors.
Elaine’s dedication to advocacy and education is backed by extensive training in sexual assault and crisis intervention. She has worked with Rappahannock Council Against Sexual Assault (RCASA), Darkness to Light End Child Sexual Abuse, Fairfax County Domestic and Sexual Assault Services, and the Fairfax County Schools’ Speak Up Be Safe curriculum. She also educates others on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), helping communities understand the long-term impact of trauma and the importance of early intervention.
Her unwavering commitment to service has not gone unnoticed. She was honored as the first recipient of the Virginia Williams Community Service Award by the Northern Virginia Urban League Guild. In March 2024, Elaine was also named one of Central Virginia’s Most Influential Women, a testament to the lives she has touched and the change she continues to inspire.
Elaine Crocker is living proof that no matter where you come from, you have the power to take control of your future. She is not just a survivor; she is a fighter, a leader, and a beacon of hope for those who feel lost in their struggles.
Her message is clear: Your past does not define you. Your strength does.
Through her work, she continues to break cycles, uplift communities, and reminds us all that no matter how dark the journey, we can still stand.
CHRISTINA HAMPTON
VICE-PRESIDENT OF BOARD & DIRECTOR Of MENTAL HEALTH AND PLANNING
Christina is a devoted Christian and accomplished entrepreneur. She is a resident in counseling under the supervision of a licensed professional counselor and serves as a Christian counselor.
Alongside her husband, she leads the Marriage and Addiction ministry, providing support and guidance to couples in need. Her academic credentials include a Bachelor of Arts in Biblical and Theological Studies and dual Master of Science degrees in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and School Counseling. As the CEO and founder of A Different Cloth Event Staffing, New Dawn Christian Counseling, and Unshakeable Saturday Brunch, Christina demonstrates her entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to service.
A devoted wife, stepmom of three, and dog mom, Christina is passionate about giving back to her community. She focuses on uplifting women who have survived domestic violence, sexual assault, and other challenges. Christina attributes all her successes and blessings to the goodness of God, living her faith through her work and dedication to helping others.
CHARISSA MCCALL
SECRETARY & ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF MENTAL HEALTH & PLANNING
Charissa McCall, a native of Northern Virginia and a resident of Stafford County since 2003, is a dedicated community leader with a passion for service. With over 25 years of experience in Resources, Outreach, and Event Management, Charissa brings a wealth of expertise to her endeavors. Throughout her career, Charissa has made significant contributions to various organizations. In 1994, she served as the Program Manager for Arlington County's Agency on Aging/American Red Cross, overseeing the disbursement of a $157,000 grant, for the launching the pilot program for the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) to assist citizens with disabilities in accessing transportation services. Charissa has served as an AmeriCorps VISTA and AmeriCorps State and Case Manager for local nonprofits, including Bragg Hill Family Life Center, Olde Forge Junction (now known as Stafford Junction), and Birthright of Fredericksburg. In 2013, she founded Rissa's Heart, a ministry committed to giving back to families in need. Charissa'is commitment to empowering women and is a member of the American Business Women Association (ABWA). As a charter member (2018) and Vice President Chair of the Women Inspiring Women Leaders Chapter in Fredericksburg, VA, she actively supports and uplifts fellow women leaders. Charissa is certified in Adult Mental Health CPR, Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training, with additional credentials as an AMEN Clinic Brain Health Trainer. These certifications highlight her commitment to promoting mental wellness, understanding brain health, and providing life-saving intervention strategies.
MAHOGANY HART
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER (CFO)
Mahogany is a seasoned leader, with an MBA in Marketing, she has a background in public relations and marketing and operations management.
She is skilled in Budget Management and Finance Planning, Marketing Strategy, Brand Marketing, Event Planning, Crisis Management, Public Relations, Media Relations, Social Media, and Outreach Programs.
Ms Hart is currently the Treasurer and Associate Pastor for Zion Church of Fredericksburg and is the Contact Center Director at Mary Washington Healthcare.
KATISHA SHIPP
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER(COO)/ DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, MARKETING AND PROMOTION
Katisha is a results-oriented and resourceful Event manager & Director with 20 years of experience in event management, budgeting, and team leadership.
She is a highly effective communicator with business development and Team leadership experience. She has managed organized and planned small and large events valued at $30k - $300k.
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She is skilled in lead generation, customer engagement and cultivating strong relationships with clients and prospective clients to drive business growth. She is the current owner and Ops Manager of The Kreative Firm.
SHANITA NOLAN
DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION AND TRAINING
Dr. Nolan is an accomplished Learning & Development practitioner, Training Program Designer and Instructor, Workshop Presenter, Author, Speaker, Advocate, and Coach with over two decades of experience in leadership, professional growth, leadership development, and
personal development. She holds many professional certifications, including a mental health coach certification from the American Association of Christian Counselors. Her deep commitment to maternal and mental health advocacy extends to her involvement with the March of Dimes, National Alliance on Mental Illness, and Mental Health America. Through her books,
workshops, and speeches, she shares expertise on leadership, life, navigating the complexities of mental and maternal health, and advocating for comprehensive support systems and inclusive policies. She founded Circle of Trust Leadership and L3 Unlimited, platforms that empower personal, professional, leadership, and spiritual growth. These platforms aid women in healing, inspire them to share their stories with others, and promote holistic well-being, self-love, self-care, and resiliency. She is a mentor and champion to diverse groups, including young girls, single mothers, and survivors of sexual assault and domestic violence. Additionally,
she hosts a podcast tailored to Christian widows (The Widows Lounge), offering guidance and support through faith-based discussion and sharing stories of resilience and hope.
SYREETA WRIGHT
PROGRAM DIRECTOR OF MENTAL HEALTH & PLANNING
Syreeta is a Licensed Professional Counselor in VA, DC and GA. She has a Post-Masters EdS degree in Counseling, Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling and Bachelors degree in Psychology with specializations in Marriage and Family Counseling, School Counseling and Substance Abuse Counseling. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision at Virginia Commonwealth University. She is also a Virginia Board approved Clinical Supervisor.
Syreeta has 20 years of experience in the mental health field working with children, adolescents, adults, families and couples in residential, hospital, group home, school, colleges, military bases, outpatient and virtual settings. She currently provides clinical and policy oversight for a program within the DoD. Along with her husband, she co-hosts “Date Night with The Wrights” quarterly, cultivating connection and community for couples. Syreeta is committed to applying her skill set and wealth of experience to improving the mental health and relational health of survivors of intimate partner violence through group work, trainings, workshops, research, leadership, advocacy, and collaborative partnerships.