SHIELDS 20th Anniversary Program

LETETXEREFCRUOMTITVHEE
DIRECTOR

Kathryn Icenhower, PhD, LCSW

To our SHIELDS Family and Friends,
Welcome to the Celebration of our 20th Anniversary! Our theme for
this evening is “Build” – a perfect word to use to reflect upon the two
decades that SHIELDS has been in the community building
resources and providing services to families.
Twenty years… it doesn’t seem possible. Just a moment ago I was
sitting in a condemned trailer on the campus of Martin Luther King
Medical Center – putting furniture together and developing forms in
order to start up our first program, Genesis. Believing we could help
families stay together, we opened the doors in September 1990. We
didn’t know if families would come to treatment… but they did… and
they kept coming… and we kept listening and building the agency to
respond to what they said they needed. Now, here we are today,
with 32 programs and 360 staff, providing services to over 7000
families every year… and still growing.
Tonight we are celebrating the many blessings we have received at
SHIELDS and recognizing the people that have made this all
possible: our Board, our Staff, our Partners and the Families we
have been privileged to serve. Without all of you, we wouldn’t be
where we are today. I feel honored to be a part of this agency,
where so many people have given their passion and commitment to
making a difference… and I am humbled to be a part of a team of
Directors that has stayed together for 20 years in order to help guide
and direct our mission and vision.
Tonight, we have tried to capture many of the highlights of our 20
years to share with all of you who have been a part of our history.
We hope you enjoy the memories… the music and... in the
SHIELDS tradition… the dancing. Thank you for Believing, Building
and Becoming with us…

Happy Holidays!

OUR HISTORY DIVISIONS
In 1987, physicians at Martin Luther King Jr./Drew Medical Child Welfare Division
Center delivered 1,200 infants exposed prenatally to drugs—an Children & Youth Division
all-time annual high in Los Angeles and in our nation’s history. Mental Health Division
At the time, few had hope for these children. Even fewer had Substance Abuse Division
hope for their parents and families. There were no programs
designed to serve the special needs of this population, and the Support Services Division
future looked bleak.
PROGRAMS
Full of hope, three women banded together to put an end to this ACT Program - Partnership For Families (PFF) Initiative
epidemic and founded SHIELDS for Families, Inc. in 1991. Administration
Although Kathryn Icenhower, Xylina Bean and Norma Mtume Adoption Promotion & Support Services (APSS)
came from different backgrounds, they shared the belief that Aftercare
they could help shape the future. And they have. Ark
ASK Program - Prevention Initiative Demonstration Project (PIDP)
Today, SHIELDS is a nationally and internationally recognized Best Babies
organization that offers award-winning programs in Los CalWORKs
Angeles’ most challenged communities. The organization has CalWORKs Homeless Families Project
grown to serve more than 7,000 families each year, employing Child Development
more than 360 full-time staff, with an annual budget of more Clinical Training
than $24 million. SHIELDS operates 32 programs, including Community Assessment Services Center (CASC)
four collaborative networks in which SHIELDS serves as the Eden
lead agency. Educational and Vocational Services Center
Exodus
OUR MISSION Family Preservation
To develop, deliver and evaluate culturally sensitive, Family Support
comprehensive service models that empower and advocate for Food services
high-risk families in South Los Angeles. Functional Family Therapy (FFT)
Genesis
OUR VISION GROW
Believing in our families…that they can overcome whatever Healthy Start
challenges they are facing. Heros & Sheros Youth Development
Housing
Building a foundation of hope…that they can acquire the skills HUB Outpatient Mental Health Clinic
and support needed to accomplish their goals. Immunization Project
Jericho Training Center
Becoming empowered…as proud individuals, nurturing parents, Jordan Downs Family Asset Development Program
and productive members of the community. Multi-Disciplinary Assessment Team (MAT)
Multi-Systemic Therapy (MST)
OUR GOALS Place of Family
Promote family reunification and support families remaining Point of Engagement (POE)/Up-Front Assessment (UFA)
intact in the community Ready for School
Revelation
Strengthen families through the provision of comprehensive and School-Based Mental Health (SBMH)
collaborative services Tamar Village
Therapeutic Nursery
Improve the general well-being of families through Transportation
comprehensive health programs and preventative social
services

Encourage self-sufficiency and economic independence.

-Rick Pitino, Lead to Success

LEADERSHIP Kathryn S. Icenhower, Ph.D., LCSW
Directors Executive Director
Kathryn S. Icenhower, PhD, LCSW, Co-Founder and Executive Director of SHIELDS for Families, has worked in the
Board of Directors substance abuse and child welfare fields for over thirty years in both clinical and administrative positions and has remained
Xylina Bean, M.D. at the forefront of the field as an advocate for comprehensive and collaborative services for high-risk communities. Kathy
President sits on numerous local, state, and federal coalitions and advisory boards, was a founding member of the California Perinatal
Gerald Phillips Treatment Network and the National Family Centered Treatment Director’s Coalition, she serves as a consultant for the
Chairperson Substance Abuse and Mental Health Administration (SAMSHA) and has assisted the Office of National Drug Control Policy
(ONDCP) with policy development for Family Centered Treatment. She is a member of the California Child Welfare Council
as well as a State Commissioner for First 5 California. Kathryn received her BSSW from Ohio State University and her MSW
and PhD from the University of Southern California. In addition to Dr. Icenhower’s innovation and leadership, she is also
most known for her skills at playing Spades and her love of THE Ohio State University – Go Buckeyes!

Norma Mtume, MA
Associate Director and Chief Financial Officer
Norma Mtume, MA, Co-Founder, Associate Director and Chief Financial Officer for SHIELDS for Families, is also a co-
founder of the SHIELDS Housing Corporation and UMMA Community Clinic in South Los Angeles. Norma received her
Bachelors and Masters degrees in health and safety studies, with an emphasis in administration from California State
University, Los Angeles. In addition, she holds a masters degree in marital and family therapy from Pacific Oaks College,
with a certification in African American family studies. Norma is known for her attention to detail, her passion for health, and
her spoken word, speed-walking and dancing skills!

Sara Tienda
Assistant Director
Sara Tienda, MSW, Assistant Director of SHIELDS for Families, has more than 20 years of experience in both
administrative and direct services, with expertise in resource development and the provision of services in South Los
Angeles. In addition, she has worked in the areas of volunteer services, alternative sentencing, developmental disabilities,
substance abuse and mental health. A Southern California native, Sara was born and raised in Orange County. She holds a
bachelor’s degree in sociology from California State University, Fullerton and a master’s degree in social work from
California State University, Long Beach. Sara started as an MSW intern at SHIELDS in 1992 and has been with us ever
since. Sara is known for her infectious laugh and fun spirit and is a converted Ohio State Buckeye fanatic!

Charlene Smith
Director of Child Development/Healthy Start
Charlene Smith, MA, Director of Children and Youth Programs for SHIELDS for Families, first joined SHIELDS for Families
in 1991 to run the child development services for Genesis Day Treatment Program, and then successfully ran the Healthy
Start Program for many years, and now oversees all children and youth programs – her areas of expertise and passion. An
Ohio native, Charlene attended Kent State University, where she received a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education.
She holds a master’s degree in marriage, family and child counseling from Phillips Graduate Institute. Prior to joining
SHIELDS, Charlene taught kindergarten for many years in Oberlin, Ohio, where she developed her passion for young
children and high-quality education. Charlene is known for her infamous wink, she has a big heart and caring spirit and is
also a serious Buckeye.
Darnell Bell
Director of Research and Evaluation
Darnell Bell, MA, Director of Research and Evaluation for SHIELDS for Families, joined SHIELDS in 1992 as the director of
youth services and has led the organization’s research and evaluation efforts since 2007. During his tenure, he designed
and implemented SHIELDS’ renowned Heros & Sheros program, which serves at-risk youth. Affectionately known as the
“grandfather of prevention” in Los Angeles County, Darnell has more than 38 years of experience leading culture-based
alcohol and drug-prevention programs. Before joining SHIELDS, he directed youth programs at the Watts Health
Foundation and the Avalon-Carver Community Center. Darnell frequently presents at local and national conferences on his
culturally specific curriculum, Winners, and on the importance of culture-based and culturally-specific service models.
Darnell holds a bachelors degree in ethnic studies, sociology and education from the University of Redlands, and a masters
degree in urban education and ethnic studies from California State University, Los Angeles. Darnell is famous for being the
only male director for 20 years and his love of salsa dancing!

Kerry English, M.D. Susan Haynes, Ed.D Lou Orr
Vice-Chairperson Treasurer Charlotte Burnett

Bunny Withers Gussie Schlegel
Secretary

EMPLOYEES
YEARS OF SERVICE

21 Years 12 Years 8 Years

Kathryn Icenhower Shalanda Body Elia Astudillo
Norma R Stoker-Mtume Ragon Duffy Sandra Barajas
Katherine Erickson Selvin Peterman
20 Years Kimberly D Medvin David Whitman
Phyllis Story
Darnell Bell Cheryl Williams 7 Years
Esther Hardaway
11 Years Maria Casarez-Romero
19 Years Tracye Jones
Kellie Chandler Evonne Mack
Gwendolyn Johnson Margaruite Evans Rosa Vynette Moore
Patrick C Kennedy Louis Jacinto Earlene Paschel
Charlotte Mims Shelly Kinsey Katherine Ross
Lillian Murray Ronnie Randall Mariy Tapia
Charlene Smith Cynthia Reese Janice Thomas
Shelia Smith-Cook Reginald Van Appelen Denise Walker
Marshall Sullivan
Sara Tienda 10 Years 6 Years

18 Years Deborah Kay Carter Patricia Alba
Kwadigi Cason Renee Becraft
Alison Quals Marcus Holcombe Manuela Castellanos
Da Londa Sampson-Groenow Dorell Johnson Ronnita Darnell
Doneka Johnson Elnora Dower
17 Years Wanda Lawson Marcela Garcia
Ruth Raybon Patricia Haley
Deborah Lands Danita Reed-Henderson Alfred Jr Howard
Claudia Summers-Eason Jeri Sprewell Colette James
April Mclaughlin
16 Years 9 Years Jonathan Ousley
Jaime Sheehan
Dominic Biddle Robert Alvarado Claribel Villaviray
Ennis Howell Rokeyba Bacon Torrionda Wallace
Sahara Lutz George Bell
Kimberli Cebrun 5 Years
15 Years Malcolm Cooper
Tatiana Gale Diane Q. Argo
Carmen Gonzales Riham Haddad Jeremy Argo
Patricia Mckenna Kelly Johnson Kenneth Bayliss
Murray S Kaufman Wesley Carlin
14 Years Beverly Kellum Douglas Hernandez
Tony Livingston Danielle Lowe
Mercy Gonzales Alejandra Ramirez Wanda Mccrary
Anita Hall Jenny Ramirez Samuel Munoz
Brenda Sifuentes
Dionesha Simmons
Javiera Sobalvarro
Joyce Stone
Darrell Straight
Wilmajean Walker
Kendra Wilkins

4 Years Trinidad Ramirez Takisha Clark
Hector Reyes Lindsey Cordova
Felix Aguilar David Saucedo Colleen Davidoff
Claudia Chavarria Fawn Smith Sydney Loraine Davis
Lucia Contreras Jamelle Edwina Smith Nikki Ector
Jenifer Curiel Melissa Tamayo Tamara Fisher-Lindsey
Trevor Daniels Jonathan Thomas Tasheaka Fleming
Kathy Eliassian Ella Todd Kevin Frank
Jermaine Francis Audrey Tousant Mayra Garcia
Candida Giron Gill Walker Miguel Garcia Jr
Aldercy Guzman Maria Garcia Yepes
Frances Jennings 2 Years Tamieka Gonder
Geoffrey Jones Ozge Guvercinci
Sonja Juniel Sonia Barrales Dwaine Jackson
Stevon Lewis Maria Patricia Burton Tonya Javadi
Daney Moore Althea Cayonne Danielle Jenkins
Terry Payne Karol Duarte Cynthia Johnson
Angelica Rojas Geron Flynn Sharon Jones
Antoinette Simpson Larrisa Gonzales Danielle Kayne
Leticia Siordia Mariela Gutierrez Clarissa King
Maria Guadalupe Soto Erika A Hartman Anderson Tsuilei Lam Mace
Kanika Todd Kameron Hightower Corinna Lopez
Roslyn Turner-Clark Michele Johnson Marjuan Lucas
Patrice Walz Andre Mcpherson
Nailah Wilder Stephanie Moss Kijoma Marsh
Shelia Nelson-Griggs
3 Years Brenda Perez Cassandra Martinez
Sara Rodas Michelle Matthews
Leticia Aguayo Susan Schlag Julieta Mejia Pedroza
Lashawnda Anderson Melissa Shepard Wilma Mendoza Dela Cerda
Jorge Caballero Cleante Stain Katherine Moore
Walter Cardenas Jejuan Stoot Lizbeth Nava
Larry Carter Marib Villanueva-Quezada Nicholas Nunez
Vic Contreras-Valdovinos Kimya Wilson Maribel Peralta
Esmer Delacruz Velazquez Kimathy Phelps
Camille Forby 1 Year Albert Rivas
Karmen Foster Sharron Rivers
Narciso Hernandez Jose Alvarez Lauren Rochelle
Teresa Howser Candace Anderson Mayra Rodriguez
Christopher Igonia-Mock Gabriela Ayala Blanca Romero
Linda Johnson Omar Bautista Karla Sandin
Fred Johnson Jr. Michelle Beard Samuel Spear
Nancy Larson Gregory Black Char'Le Stewart-Zenarosa
Erica Lester Deanette Brewer Sally Tapia
Georgea Madeira Donald Brown Lidia Valadez
Patricia Makonen Javier Caldera Stephanie Valencia
Myra Mayberry Victoria Cameron Ana Velasco
Luis Miranda Gloria Cardenas Claudia Villalta
Araceli Nunez Maria Carrillo Catherine Webb
Julie Roxane Payne Natali Cervantes Janine Williams
Stephanie Peoples Jacob T. Chacko Ebonee Winston
Helen Price Elidia Cisneros Tabitha Youngman
Karen Yrigoyen

-Rick Pitino, Lead to Success

20th Anniversary Celebration
PROGRAM

OPENING

Call to Order
Tommy Davidson
Master of Ceremonies

Welcome
Kathryn Icenhower, PhD, LCSW
Executive Director, SHIELDS for Families

Gerald Phillips
Board Chairperson, SHIELDS for Families

Invocation
Pastor Tommy Brown, MSW

IMHP

DINNER IS SERVED

Opening Remarks
Assemblymember Holly Mitchell, 47th Assembly District

Congresswoman Karen Bass, 33rd District of CA

Video Presentation
SHIELDS for Families 20th Anniversary

Alba Visuals

RECOGNITION

Founders & Directors

Believing
Board & Partners

Building
Alumni Award

Becoming
Staff

ENTERTAINMENT

Margo Thunder
Luke James
Johnny Gill
MLKM
DJ & Dancing

20th Anniversary Celebration

PRESENTERS AND SPEAKERS

TOMMY DAVIDSON Showtime, is one of Netflix’s surefire hits enjoying and their families, while fundraising and meeting
Master of Ceremonies a continual surge as a favorite with consumers. a monthly payroll for hundreds of employees.
Davidson scored big with reviewers and As mother of a middle-schooler, Holly Mitchell
Tommy Davidson’s audiences alike opposite Michael Jai White in the understands the concerns of working families and
exceptional range – stand- critically-lauded spoof comedy, Black Dynamite advocates legislative policy to meet their needs.
up comedy and acting to (Sony Pictures), last year’s big Sundance hit In the Assembly, she seeks to improve the quality
versatile music ability – which is currently being adapted as a cartoon for and accessibility of the state’s health and
have earned him a Adult Swim. education systems. She focuses on job creation
reputation as an He is receiving critical raves for a cameo in and finding a balance between business, human
extraordinary performer. Ahmed Ahmed’s award-winning documentary, and environmental needs that expands economic
Best known as one of the Just Like Us, a feature film masterpiece which is opportunity while protecting natural resources.
original stars of the hit a cross-cultural study of stand-up comedy Mitchell’s commitment to community service and
television show In Living bridging all ethnicities. Tommy travels social justice began in elementary school when
Color, Tommy’s visibility internationally selling out every venue in which he she volunteered in a congressional campaign that
increased rapidly and he headlines. He leaves an indelible, everlasting eventually led to student activism and a Coro
became widely known for his innovative talent. image with all audiences who still chuckle on the Fellowship in Public Affairs, following her
Davidson started his career as a standup way home. undergraduate studies at the University of
comedian in Washington DC, earning an ardent California at Riverside.
following with sheer hard work in various comedy Assemblymember
clubs. As one of the cutting-edge, young stand- HOLLY J. MITCHELL Congresswoman
ups, he was spotted by major concert promoters Honorary Speaker KAREN BASS
who booked him as the opening act for A-list Honorary Speaker
touring acts including Patti LaBelle, Kenny G and Assemblymember Holly J.
Luther Vandross. It wasn’t long before he came Mitchell was elected in Karen Bass is the U.S.
to Hollywood and was performing stand-up at a November 2010 to Representative for
number of clubs, including the Comedy Act represent the 47th California's 33rd
Theatre, where he met Robert Townsend. This Assembly District, which congressional district. She
led to his first national television appearance with includes the Los Angeles has been selected by
a starring role in Partners in Crime and was the communities of Baldwin Democratic Leader Nancy
conduit to Keenan Ivory Wayans, who proved Hills, Cheviot Hills, the Pelosi to serve on the
instrumental in Davidson’s career by offering him Crenshaw District, Ladera prestigious Steering and
an opportunity to audition and join the uniquely Heights, Little Ethiopia, Policy Committee which
talented cast of the most adventurous primetime Palms, UCLA and West sets the policy direction of
variety show of its day, In Living Color. He, Los Angeles, as well as the Democratic Caucus.
Jamie Foxx, Jim Carrey and Damon Wayans Culver City, portions of Democratic Whip Steny
made TV history with their originality. Koreatown, the Fairfax district, Beverly wood and Hoyer of Maryland appointed Bass to serve as an
Tommy’s impressive film debut was opposite South Los Angeles. She chairs the Assembly’s Assistant Whip.
Halle Berry in Strictly Business. He immediately Budget Sub-committee on Health & Human Prior to her serving as the current Representative
segued into select high-profile films starring Services, and is a member of the Committees on for CA-33rd, Karen Bass made history when the
opposite Jada Pinkett Smith in the romantic Accountability & Administrative Review, California Assembly elected her to be its 67th
comedy, Woo (New Line), and in the provocative Appropriations, Budget, Health, and Public Speaker, catapulting her to become the first
urban comedy Booty Call (Columbia Pictures). Safety. African American woman in the country to serve
His credits include numerous feature film roles Mitchell comes to the State Assembly from in this powerful state legislative role.
from Spike Lee’s Bamboozled, where he received leadership in California’s non-profit sector where, While Speaker, Bass delivered change and
acclaim and praise for his turn as “Womack/Sleep as the chief executive officer of Crystal Stairs for results to her constituents in Los Angeles and the
‘N Eats,” to Juwanna Mann (Morgan Creek seven years prior to taking public office, she people of California by jumpstarting infrastructure
Productions’) and the pivotal cameo in Jim championed statewide family-focused projects to create new jobs in the state. Bass has
Carrey’s Ace Ventura II: When Nature Calls, policymaking. also championed efforts to provide quality
which has become a cult favorite. Previously Mitchell worked in the Los Angeles healthcare to Californians and expand
Davidson’s hilarious impressions of Sammy Davis district office of State Senator Diane Watson, opportunities for California’s youth.
Jr., Michael Jackson and other icons have providing community and constituent services. As Under Bass’ leadership the Assembly fast-
become infamous. His visibility on In Living Color a policy analyst for the California Senate’s Health tracked federal economic stimulus legislation that
led to three Showtime specials: On Strength of and Human Services Committee, she sought aided Californians who have been affected by the
New York, Illin’ in Philly and Takin’ it to DC. His fiscally sound ways to expand health care and national economic crisis as well as jumpstarted
elasticity as a performer who delivers on both the other vital services. As the legislative advocate of billions of dollars of infrastructure projects.
big and small screen led to other projects like the the Western Center for Law and Poverty she Former Speaker Bass has proudly authored
lead in the Disney’s animated series, The Proud helped develop the groundbreaking Healthy legislation that expands Healthy Families
Family and as a host on FOX’s The NFL Show, Families program, later serving as executive Insurance coverage to prevent children from
alongside football greats Michael Irvin and Tony director of the Black Women’s Health Project in going without health care. Bass’s legislation also
Siragusa. Davidson also portrays the lead in Will Los Angeles where she fought to further improve included bills to reform schools and improve
Smith’s up-and-coming animated series, access to affordable care. conditions and services for youth.
Youngin’s. At Crystal Stairs she guided one of the largest
Tommy stars – along with 80 other star stand-ups childcare agencies in California, assuring access
– in I Am Comic, opposite Tim Allen, Lewis Black, to quality, affordable services for 25,000 children
Sarah Silverman, Carlos Mencia, Jeff Foxworthy
and Kathy Griffin. The film, which premiered on

20th Anniversary Celebration
ENTERTAINERS

JOHNNY GILL distributed through Fontana Distribution that has Johnny poised to
SHIELDS is honored to change the face of music once again. Loaded with a bevy of instant
present Johnny Gill as our classics like the cd’s debut single “In the Mood” written by Dave
headlining entertainer for our Young, Johnny, and Ralph Stacy along with “Black Box” written and
20th Anniversary Celebration. produced by multiple Grammy winner’s Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis,
Nearly a quarter of a century “Let’s Stay Together” written and produced by hit maker extraordinaire
after his ground breaking Bryan Michael Cox & J. Que, “It Would Be You” produced by Troy
debut the true voice of R&B Taylor and written by R&B sensation Trey Songz, “Trains, Planes, and
the timeless Johnny Gill has Automobiles” written by Wyclef Jean & Johnny, and “Been Loving
returned to reclaim his You”, a song that reunites Johnny with L.S.G. group mate Keith Sweat
position atop of the music and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Eddie Levert. Setting the stage for an
charts and to serve as a album guaranteed to be at the top of both radio station’s and real
reminder that undeniable music lovers’ playlist the world over. Generally considered the number
talent gets better with time. As one R&B crooner alive is a distinction well deserved by a true
if frozen and perfectly gentleman who will undoubtedly go down in the annals of music
preserved for an entire new history as arguably the greatest singer to ever pick up a microphone…
generation to love and The Voice Johnny Gill.—Written by “The Voice” T.P. Frazier for
appreciate the incomparable www.celebritywrtings.com © 2011 All Rights Reserved
Johnny Gill is back sounding,
writing, moving, and looking LUKE JAMES
better than ever before. High
When a new artist hits the scene,
praise maybe, but then again one need only look, listen, or merely adjectives like fresh and honest
observe the extremely humble crooner enter a room to know what frequently get thrown around when, in
ever the “It” factor is Johnny Gill possesses it. A legendary solo artist many instances, it’s more hype than
and member of two iconic R&B groups Johnny’s long list of chart truth. But that’s definitely not the case
topping hits includes: “Let’s Get the Mood Right”, “The Floor”, “Fair when it comes to Luke James.
Weather Friend”, “Perfect Combination”, “Where Do We Go From
Here”, “Can You Stand the Rain”, “Boys to Men”, “I’m Still Waiting”, And just who is Luke James?
“My, My, My”, “Rub You Down the Right Way”, Slow & Sexy”, “My
Body”, and one of the most beloved wedding songs of all time “You He’s a singer/songwriter who truly
For Me” that appeared on the soundtrack to Tyler Perry’s #1 embodies the honesty and fresh,
blockbuster hit Madea’s Family Reunion. Credited with elevating New organic soulfulness that’s been in
Edition to uncharted levels of greatness Johnny also used his relatively short supply of late in contemporary music. Now that sounds
remarkable voice to steer the all star trio L.S.G. that consisted of Keith like a pretty tall order for a newcomer to fulfill. However, the New
Sweat and the late great Gerald Levert to platinum plus success. Orleans native is very much up to the task. In fact, you’ve no doubt
heard his work: he co-wrote Chris Brown’s “Crawl” and has penned
Born in our nation’s capitol Washington, D.C. served as the rearing songs for Justin Bieber (“That Should Be Me”) and Britney Spears
site for a music prodigy who honed his indelible singing skills with the (“Kill The Lights”), among others. And his growing fan base includes
gospel group Wings of Faith before being discovered by R&B great none other than Beyoncé, who selected James to appear in her “Run
Stacy Lattisaw. The very definition of music excellence Johnny’s the World” video.
effortless range and power rather in the studio or on stage is what has
allowed him to work with a who’s who list of A-1 superstars such as: MLKM
Janet Jackson, Stevie Wonder, Shanice, R. Kelly, Boyz II Men, LA & MLKM embodies Rock & Roll. At
Babyface, Jazz legend George Howard, and late funk pioneer Rick its core there is a very simple
James. Cited numerous times over his brilliant career for outstanding philosophy; Music is the last
contributions to the art’s and civic concerns Johnny was appointed communication method. An all
National Spokesmen for the prestigious Points of Life movement that Black Rock Band formed a year
recognizes everyday men and women making a difference in their
communities by then President George H.W. Bush Sr. and a half ago in the Heart of Los Angeles by Malcolm Harvest & Tony
Harvey; these five men, Bobby Whiten, James Townsend, Maxx Diaz,
Never one to sit idle Johnny is one of the few artists regardless of Skip Dixon, and Malcolm Harvest, thrive on musical innovation and a
genres to tour consistently throughout their entire career. Touring most desire to reach the Universe with their sound. Each of them
recently with the leads of New Edition Ralph Tresvant and Bobby individually and charismatically unique form a single living soul whose
Brown as one third of the super group Heads of State. However, it’s
the massive buzz surrounding his latest project; the soon to be only dialect is music. MY LAST KOMMUNIKATION METHOD.
released album entitled “Still Winning” on Notifi Records and

20th Anniversary Celebration

MS. ROBINSON ALUMNI AWARD

From the very beginning, the Alumni of Ms. Robinson truly embodied the spirit of
SHIELDS for Families have played an integral SHIELDS for Families, therefore it is our honor
role in our growth and development – they to introduce the Ms. Robinson Alumni Award.
provide a strong network for our clients and
staff alike. This award is being presented for the first time
this evening to its first recipient, Alison Quals.
Our first client, Ms. Lenora Robinson, was the Alison is a long-time member of SHIELDS as
first client we hired as a SHIELDS employee a client, alumni, and employee and currently
and served as the first President of the Alumni serves as the President of the Alumni
Association. Association. She is being presented with the
Ms. Robinson Alumni Award for her dedication
Ms. Robinson worked for SHIELDS for 18 to the agency and commitment to the Alumni
years and was a caring, devoted, and of SHIELDS for Families.
influential person whose legacy lives on today
in all we do.

2011 Recipient

ALISON QUALS

Alison Franklin Quals was born and raised in started the next rollercoaster ride of her life as a
Los Angeles. Alison was raised in a middle SHIELDS employee, a ride that enriched her,
class home, attended private school, and ignited her passion, and fulfilled her in ways
graduated high school when she was sixteen. she’d never imagined. Working for SHIELDS for
Growing up she remembers dancing on Soul 18 ½ years, Alison has successfully ran the
Train when she was 14, and although she Case Management Division, the Housing
wasn’t into drugs she became the protector of Division, Substance Abuse Division and landed
many of her friends who began to drink and use the VOC, WIC and Section 8 contracts for
drugs. That all changed when she turned 21 SHIELDS, and now runs the Specialty
and found “the rock” which took her through the Substance Abuse Division for DUI, Domestic
biggest roller coaster of life until she was 33, Violence and Anger Management. Alison has
when she found herself homeless, helpless, completed her Bachelors Degree and will
and pregnant. On March 17th in 1992, Alison obtain a Masters in Social Work in a year.
found SHIELDS for Families and started Alison attributes all her success to finding
treatment with her happy and healthy baby boy. SHIELDS, a place where she was cared for,
At the time, Alison also had a 6 years old son nurtured and encouraged to be the best she
that was being kept away from her. Alison can be. Alison states, “In all my years at
completed the Genesis Program December 4th SHIELDS I can only pray that I have given at
1992 and officially graduated January 27th least half of which was freely given to me.
1993, with both her children in her custody and From the bottom of my heart I thank those who
hopes in her future of becoming a member of were always there for me because it has made
SHIELDS staff. Alison started volunteering with me stronger, wiser and more committed. So
SHIELDS and eventually became a Child thank you to my mentors Kathy, Norma,
Development worker at the Genesis Program Charlene, Sara, Darnell, and especially my big
on February 8th 1993. At that point, Alison sister who is never lost to me - Lenora.”















Shields 20 Year

RETROSPECTIVE

1990 1991

1990 will come” kind of journey, we did no outreach or recruitment for
staff or for clients other than our linkage to Martin Luther King Hospi-
After leaving the County Drug Abuse Program Offices Kathy began tal.
designing SHIELDS’ first program – Genesis. With the help of Dr.
Xylina Bean whom had been working on legislation for programming, 1991
SHIELDS was contracted under a fiscal entity - the Public Health
Foundation - and received $300,000 and a trailer to open the first day- SHIELDS officially incorporated in 1991 and started the journey of
treatment program for women and children in the nation. Norma family-centered treatment by expanding services to all children in the
worked for the County but left to join Kathy in this adventure as they family. Early-intervention was implemented in the program and was
did whatever it took to get the program up and running. Together they such a success that it remains a part of our programming today.
ran the program and even assembled furniture, hired staff, and
cooked meals as necessary. Charlene worked a case manager for the Our first clients, Lenora and Doris, both graduated this year and be-
South Los Angeles Regional Center and remembers seeing Kathy and came SHIELDS employees. The community asked us to outreach to
Dr. Bean in action at ADPA meetings and thought they were some pregnant women in Imperial Courts so Lenora helped write a March of
movers and shakers. Once Kathy and Charlene realized they were Dimes grant that we received and she implemented the Good News
both Buckeye fans it sealed the deal and Charlene came to work with program.
Kathy and Norma. Shortly after, Sara joined the team as an MSW
intern from CSULB and Darnell, who had worked with us at the Coun- SHIELDS received the National Association of Counties Achievement
ty in Prevention, came on board to run our Heros and Sheros Youth Award.
Program which we received federal funding from the Administration for
Children and Families (ACF). We held our first Christmas party and received a donation of Barbie
Dolls and the mothers were so excited they wanted to have dolls of
Our first employee – Ms. Ester Hardaway, and our first client – Ms. their own!
Lenora Robinson, literally just walked into the trailer one day and
we’ve never stopped since. It has truly been an “if you build it, they

1992 1993 1994

1992 SHIELDS actively participated in the new Exodus Program, prevention ser-
Sara Tienda was officially hired and famous “gang truce” by helping to lead vices for Heros and Sheros Youth Pro-
wrote the grant for Family Preservation the peace march and even hired local gramming, treatment services at Imperi-
and SHIELDS worked with DCFS to gang leaders. al Courts and Jordan Downs, and the
develop all the policies and procedures; Project Support/Early Intervention Pro-
we were selected as one of the first nine The County calculated that SHIELDS gram. SHIELDS decreased out-of-home
Family Preservation providers in the services had saved them approximately placement this year by 30% through its
county. 60 million dollars so we officially moved Family Preservation services in Comp-
the Genesis Program out of the con- ton.
This same year we received a grant demned trailer and into our new facility
from ACF to implement the original ARK built for us by the County. 1994
Program which was a comprehensive SHIELDS purchased its first housing
child development program for sub- 1993 complex – Keith Village - and moved the
stance abusing families. SHIELDS received many grants this Exodus Program on-site and was able to
year to expand our programming includ- enhance its clinical services through a
ing grants from CSAT, SAPC, and Stuart CSAT grant.
Foundation. These grants funded our

1995 1996 1997

1995 1997 Due to our success with reducing out-of-
SHIELDS purchased its second housing SHIELDS officially became a DMH pro- home placement through the Family
complex – Naomi Village – through a vider and wrote the grant to receive Preservation Program, we received
grant from LAHSA. SHIELDS received funding to transform the Eden Program funding through the Edna McConnell
the C. Everett Koop National Health into the first co-occurring disorders pro- Clark Foundation to collaborate with
Award for being the most cost effective gram in the County. DCFS to pilot the Families First Pro-
non-profit in the nation. gram, which provided early intervention
SHIELDS began services at 102nd services to DCFS Families. This was the
1996 Street school, was selected as the pilot for Alternative Response which is
SHIELDS purchased its third housing Compton Drug Court Provider and be- now a county-wide component of family
complex – Saraii Village – through an- gan services at the ARK Program, and
other grant from LAHSA. SHIELDS re- opened our Vocational Services Center preservation.
ceived funding from State Office of Juve- through funding from a Family Support
nile Justice Programs to implement a grant from DCFS
multi-faceted collaborative Juvenile Jus-
tice Program – our original Revelation
Program at Jordan Downs. SHIELDS
featured on “48 Hours.”

-Henry Ford (1863 - 1947)

1998 1999 2000

1998 1999 2000
SHIELDS received many grants this SHIELDS received funding from HRSA SHIELDS received a grant from First 5
year to expand on and implement many for a full Healthy Start Program targeting to implement enhanced services at our
more programs including a planning and substance abusing pregnant and post- child development centers in our treat-
outreach grant from HRSA to start the partum women and children 0-2. We ment programs and received funding to
Healthy Start Program, another grant were also funded by Columbia Universi- implement our Community Assessment
from CSAT and a drug elimination grant ty CASA to provide treatment and voca- Services Center. SHIELDS received a
from HUD to provide substance abuse tional services to substance abusing Certificate of Special Congressional
treatment at Jordan Downs, funding women. Recognition from the South Central Pre-
from CSAP to provide services for Heros vention Coalition.
and Sheros, and funding to implement SHIELDS Mental Health Services ex-
the HUB clinic to work with DCFS chil- panded to School Based services and
dren from DMH. SHIELDS also received the Therapeutic Nursery and received
the Special Recognition Award from The funding for CalWORKs Mental Health
White House Office of National Drug and Substance Abuse programs.
Control Policy and was an Inaugural
Award Recipient from California State SHIELDS was featured on a Ch. 11 spe-
for the International Athena Award for cial “Preserving the Family: A Collabora-
tive Effort.”
our work empowering women.

2001 2002 2003

2001 Charlene began to oversee the Healthy cialists to the perinatal treatment pro-
SHIELDS received funding by SAPC to Start program with a full staff of Out- gram in order to conduct the home visit-
provide an adolescent co-occurring pro- reach Workers and Case Managers that ation model. SHIELDS was also funded
gram (Revelation), funding by LA City provided intensive case management for by CSAT to provide AIDS education and
CDD to provide gang prevention and 200 substance abusing, pregnant and services in collaboration with Charles
mental health services at YO High post-partum women and their children. Drew University.
School, and funding from United Way for
Tomorrow’s Leaders for our Heros and SHIELDS received the Innovation in the 2003
Sheros Program. Co-occurring Disorders Award for our SHIELDS received the Excellence In
EDEN program from the Los Angeles Safety Award from Non-Profits United.
SHIELDS took over the Equipoise Fami- County of Department of Mental Health
ly Preservation Program, making them Began planning with DCFS to expand
the sole provider of services in Comp- 2002 community based services for families.
ton. SHIELDS was funded by First 5 CDI
grants to fund the child development
centers in all of our treatment programs
and we added Child Development Spe-

2004 2005 2006

2004 2005 2006
SHIELDS started a pilot program at their
own cost with the DCFS Compton Offic- SHIELDS received funding from First 5 SHIELDS became a partner of the
es – Up-Front Assessments (UFAs) re- to implement our ACT Program, a Part- First5LA Best Babies Collaborative as a
duced out of home placement by 60% nership for Families (PFF) Initiative that member of the South Los Angeles Best
and are now utilized county-wide. is a collaborative early-intervention mod- Babies Collaborative (SLABBC) through
el to divert families from DCFS. The SLAHP.
SHIELDS Child Development added the program was based on our original Fam-
Ready for School Initiative through ilies First program and we began part- SHIELDS also began its Multi-
LAUSD and the Los Angeles Education nering with The Institute for Maximum Disciplinary Assessment Team (MAT)
Partnership so families with children 0-5 Human Potential (IMHP) and Para Los Program and took over the King Drew
received hands-on case management Niños (PLN). First 5 Program to begin serving high-
services in order to better prepare their risk pregnant mothers and teens.
children for Kindergarten. Kathy received the Innovator Award
from the U.S. Department of Health and SHIELDS was awarded the Most Effec-
Human Services, Center for Substance tive Community Based Organization by
Abuse Treatment for her pioneering the Compton Drug Court Foundation.
work in family centered treatment.

2007 2008 2009

2007 2008 2009
SHIELDS received a grant from ACF to SHIELDS was awarded grants from In 2009, SHIELDS received the Special-
fund our Tamar Village Program to work DCFS to implement the Adoption Sup-
with substance abusing women involved port and the ASK Program, a Prevention ty Family Foundation Grant for Heros
with the criminal justice and child welfare Initiative Demonstration Project (PIDP) and Sheros, was featured on Vh1’s Ce-
systems. which implemented four Family Re- lebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew, and Kathy
source Centers in SPA 6. Our program received The James Irvine Foundation
Dr. Icenhower became a member of the model is now being utilized as the model Leadership Award.
CA State Child Welfare Council. for the new countywide plan for DCFS
services. SHIELDS took over the Place
SHIELDS started the Spanish-speaking of Family Program from King Drew and
program at our Genesis Program. began providing DUI services in the
community.

2010 2011

2010
SHIELDS received the Medical/Legal Partnership grant from HRSA, started their own UA Lab, and was featured a second time on
Vh1’s Celebrity Rehab with Dr. Drew.

2011
SHIELDS received a grant from HACLA to implement the Jordan Downs Family Resource Center Program and received a grant from
the Department of Labor to implement a re-entry program – the Jericho Training Center - to provide vocational and case
management services.

-Katherine Mansfield (1888 - 1923)

EMPLOYEE
RETROSPECTIVES

DANEY MOORE

One of my favorite memories is when the SHIELDS Healthy Start Program celebrated the
Inauguration of the 44th President Barack Obama on January 20, 2009 by watching it
live on television while wearing Obama T-Shirts and enjoying our Salad Bar potluck – it
was truly a staff lunch to remember!

LILLIAN MURRAY

September 1,1992 was my first day at SHIELDS and it happened to be the day of the
staff picnic. I remember feeling like I was a part of something special that first day and I
still feel proud to be a part of SHIELDS. At that time there were less than 20 staff
members and only one program (Genesis) and one Child Development Center. I can’t
believe there are over 300 staff members, 30+ Programs, and 6 Child Development
Centers today. It is a unique experience to be a part of the healing process in a
community that needs people who genuinely care about and believe in its families. It is a
privilege to see many of the children grow up and go off to college, have a job, and raise
their own healthy family. It takes a village to raise a child, and we do that here at
SHIELDS!

ANITA HALL

I just wanted to say that SHIELDS has dedicated their 20 years to building up the self-
esteem and self-worth of addicts like myself to ensure we become all that we are capable
of. It is a miracle that someone like me who came from the streets was provided the
opportunity and support to obtain 3 higher education degrees and be hired and move up
within the organization after being a client. Today, I am able to give back to individuals
like myself because of SHIELDS. From me, my family, and other addicts out there -
Thank You for the support, encouragement, your helping hands, your love, your
discipline, and the “You Can Do Its". I am a better person because of you - EACH ONE
TEACH ONE!

SARA RODAS

I've worked at SHIELDS for almost 3 years and love it! SHIELDS offered me the
opportunity to enroll in the SHIELDS Masters in Social Work program at California State
University-Dominguez Hills and supported me throughout my internship placement. I am
thankful for SHIELDS for giving me the opportunity to further my education, grow as a
professional, serve others, and ultimately be part of a team for a greater cause.

MURRAY KAUFMAN

I believe that SHIELDS and its employees adopt a “whatever it takes” approach to
serving its clients and community. One example is when I first started at SHIELDS as a
therapist at the HUB and my clients were at Exodus. One client was about 8 years old
and refused to go to school due to difficulties with separation anxiety from her mother. I
walked her through the community all the way to school, even though I was stopped and
questioned numerous times by members of the community because I was Caucasian
and she was a young African-American girl who was crying uncontrollably most of the
way. One community member even followed us all the way to the school and asked the
school officials to confirm that they knew me. I appreciated the community member’s
concern for a young member of their community and I wasn’t going to give up along the
way to getting this client to school. Several years later, when the client was a teenager,
she sent me a card thanking me for helping her go to school. It’s moments like this that
keep you going at SHIELDS, no matter what it takes!



SERVICES LOCATIONS Congratulations SHIELDS for
Families on your 20 years of
Customized Training Development Mid City success and innovation. The
Training Needs Assessment 3450 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 507 SOAPwriter applauds your
dedication to children, families,
Customized Instructional Materials Los Angeles, CA 90010 and communities and admires
Human Resources Lynwood your passion and heart for
changing lives and impacting
Temporary-Regular Employment 2620 Industry Way, Suite A the field and future of social
Resume & Job Search Preparation Lynwood, CA 90262 work.
Mailing Address
Career Transition [email protected]
Government Training Funds 2554 Lincoln Blvd., Suite 695 #(424) 781-SOAP (7627)
Training Administration and Tracking Marina del Rey, CA 90291

Training
Office Skills
Computer Network Management
Fiber Optics/Telecommunications

Jon Adrian Williamson
Tel: (310) 503-6487 Fax: (310) 396-8207

Email: [email protected]

Denise Watts
REALTOR®

DRE# 01334900

23900 Hawthorne Blvd. Suite 200
Torrance, California 90505
Cell 323.574.2883
Office 310.371.6330 Ext. 3206
Fax 310.370.7265
[email protected]
www.C21Union.com

HAPPY 20TH ANNIVERSARY TO
SHIELDS FOR FAMILIES.

WE APPRECIATE YOUR 20 YEARS OF SERVICE
IN THE COMMUNITY!

FROM CLIFF DELFOSSE AND INCORPORATED
INSURANCE SERVICES.

13636 Burbank Blvd., Sherman Oaks, Ca 91401
SPECIALIZING IN: DUI’S/SR22, SUSPENDED LICENSE, NO LICENSE,

OUT OF STATE LICENSE, MULTIPLE VIOLATIONS

Cliff Delfosse
…it would be an honor to be your Insurance Agent

818.626.3100 Direct Line
818.979.0865 Personal Fax Number
FEEL FREE TO TEXT ME: 323.391.0357

[email protected]
visit us on the web: www.iisinsurance.com

Congratulations

Thanks Norma and SHIELDS
for allowing us to be a part
of your history!
Stay strong Alison!
Sincerely, Samyr Cibio

MTB Accountancy Group L.L.C.
5120 Gold Leaf, Suite #180
Los Angeles, CA 90056
Office (323) 296-4366
Fax (323) 296-4365
www.mtbagllc.com
[email protected]

CONGRATULATIONS!

Anslem Bible Church wants to thank Congratulations SHIELDS for Families
Kathy, Alison and SHIELDS for your
support over the years. Your outstanding Project!
work in the community continues to
renew faith in those who would have For the past 20 years you have been a community of
given up without SHIELDS. purpose and support for women and children in need. The

Sincerely effective leadership of Dr. Kathryn Icenhower and the
Pastor John Coleman Board of Directors is an example to all of us. We are proud
And the Anselm Family
to celebrate this milestone with you.

God Bless and Harambee!

David P. Fuller and Cheryl A. Branch-Fuller

Community Minded Business

“It’s been a pleasure being a
member of the SHIELDS Family!

Happy 20th Birthday!”

-Cheryl Gully, LCSW



MJB Transitional Recovery
Congratulates

SHIELDS for Families

For 20 Years of Service!

MJB Transitional Recovery, Inc
Substance Abuse Treatment Program

11152 So. Main Street, Los Angeles, Ca 90061
323-777-2491 Phone / 323-417-5025 Fax. / [email protected]

To My Friend Alison,
Continue The
Good Work!

USC School of Social Work congratulates
SHIELDS for Families on its 20 years of service
to children, families, and communities!

Congratulations

To Alison and SHIELDS
You fix lives! Let it always be your passion for life

Eula’s House has space available: Congratulations Helen, Alison
1243-1243 ½ Wexham, and Roz! Keep up the good work!
Inglewood, CA 90302
Contact Cynthia (310) 677-5221 / (310) 213-3075 or
220-220 ½ W. 49th Street John Grisby, Chief Executive Office (310) 612-7525
Los Angeles, CA 90037
Meeting and Social Facility
814 E. 97th Street 2714 W. Florence, Los Angeles, CA 90043
Los Angeles, CA 90002

Eula’s House is a California Nonprofit Organization

Nothing stops a woman who desires to achieve.
Every obstacle, every setback was just a setup for a
comeback and simply a course to develop your
record of success and achievement. It’s a
strengthening of the powers that be and allowing
you everyday of life and your accomplishments
thereof. Nothing or no one can stop you or all
that you chose to desire and to achieve.

We Love You, We Also Honor You and We Applaud
You and I and every other person should be and are
grateful for the wonderful job you have done today and the
days beforehand.

Love,
your lil’ sis, mother,
father and family

Place of Family

Congratulations Helen andAlison

SHIELDS for Families, your dedication
and service to the community changes

lives and builds families.

South Central Los Angeles is a better
place because of your relentless
involvement and support.

As ever,

Joy Branch

Institute for Maximum Human Potential

Congratulates our partner

SHIELDS For Families, Inc.

on your 20 years of
dedicated service to the
children and families in our community!

We Thank You
for being willing to endure the work.

IMHP: Leaving Families, Individuals, and Communities
Better than we found them

Special Thanks
SHIELDS would like to thank:

OUR ANNIVERSARY EVENT SPONSORS OUR ANNIVERSARY EVENT SPECIAL THANKS TO
Silver Anniversary Sponsor ($5,000) PLANNING COMMITTEE Jake Alba
Three Cohens Construction Rokeyba Bacon Rafael Angulo
Believing Building Becoming Sponsor Malcolm Cooper Congresswoman Karen Bass
($500-1000) Da-Londa Groenow Aracely Chavez
Omowale & Norma Mtume ($1000) Marcus Holcombe Andre Jamal Cohen
Economic Resources Corporation ($750) Francis Jennings Tommy Davidson
OUR ANNIVERSARY EVENT VENDORS Kelly Johnson Johnny Gill
Alba Visuals Miriam Long Luke James
DJ Pro Events Patricia McKenna Michele Johnson
Hilton LAX Hotel Daney Moore MLKM
Sanchez Awards Vynette Moore Assemblymember Holly Mitchell
Spring Flowers & Events Stephanie Moss Katherine Moore
United Printers Lillian Murray Elena Morales
Alison Quals Margo Thunder
Fawn Smith Carlos de la Vega
Cheryl Williams

AND VERY SPECIAL THANKS TO THE FOUNDERS, DIRECTORS, BOARD,
STAFF, CLIENTS, ALUMNI AND PARTNERS OF SHIELDS FOR FAMILIES

Graphic Design: Malcolm Cooper
Cover Design: QuantumMethod
Printing/Lithographics: United Printers