Our Team

Our Team Culture & Core Values

At Children Rising, our team is united by a shared belief that every child deserves love, safety, and opportunity. We believe that every mother deserves support, dignity, and empowerment. Guided by compassion and purpose, we work together to create lasting change for single mothers and their children.

Core Values

  • Compassion: We lead with empathy, honoring every mother and child’s story.
  • Collaboration: We thrive as a team, building strong partnerships within and beyond our community.
  • Integrity: We act with transparency, accountability, and respect in all we do.
  • Empowerment: We equip mothers with tools, knowledge, and confidence to thrive independently.
  • Sustainability: We design programs that foster long-term growth and break cycles of poverty and trauma.

Together, these values shape our team culture rooted in trust, service, and the unwavering belief that when mothers rise, children rise too.

Empowering Single Mothers and Their Children Together

Meet the dedicated individuals driving our mission to nurture and uplift families.

Jim Drews

President, Board of Directors

Full Bio

Drawing on 23 years of foster care and community leadership, Jim guides Children Rising’s vision with a focus on breaking cycles of trauma and building stronger families.

Meleah Drews

Co-Founder & Board Director

Full Bio

A foster and adoptive parent and Registered Nurse, Meleah brings 23 years of experience championing safe, supportive environments for single mothers and their children.

Raymond Albano

Secretary, Board of Directors

Full Bio

A seasoned financial consultant since 1985, Raymond brings strategic insight and a lifelong commitment to helping young people grow in environments where they can succeed.

Ed Conrad

Treasurer, Board of Directors

Full Bio

With nearly four decades as a Unity minister, Edward offers deep experience in spiritual leadership, community building, and compassionate advocacy for single mothers and children.

Gera Cortez

Executive Director & Board Director

Full Bio

Combining over ten years of cross-sector leadership with personal experience, Gera leads program development, funding initiatives, and community partnerships to help families thrive.

Empowering Single Mothers and Their Families

Hear from the inspiring mothers and children who have grown stronger through our supportive programs.

Children Rising transformed my journey, providing guidance and care that truly made a difference.

Maria Lopez

Community Program Coordinator

Their support empowered me and my child to thrive in ways I never imagined possible.

Liam Nguyen

Volunteer Coordinator