PRINCIPAL

For 27 years, Sylvia Barnard has led Good Samaritan Shelter, growing it into the largest homeless services and drug treatment provider in Santa Barbara County. Under her leadership, the organization operates 40+ locations with 1,000+ beds, serving over 5,000 people annually. Good Samaritan provides emergency shelter, detox, permanent housing, intensive case management, and trauma-informed care, including specialized services for human trafficking survivors and gender-based needs.

Sylvia has spearheaded major expansions, including the Isla Vista Pallet Shelter, Hedges House of Hope, two Stabilization Centers, and the Dignity Moves Santa Barbara bridge housing project. She also launched a 20-bed Step Down Housing Program and led pandemic response efforts, including the Santa Maria High School Emergency Shelter.

A recognized leader in housing, public health, and reentry services, Sylvia serves as Chair of the Santa Barbara County Continuum of Care, Co-Chair of the CBO Coalition, and holds key roles on multiple local and national boards. Her work continues to drive innovative solutions for homelessness and community health.

CONSULTANT

With 13 years at Good Samaritan Shelter, Alexis Nshamamba has been a key leader in homeless services, supportive housing, and nonprofit capacity-building. She oversees all permanent housing programs, CalAIM initiatives, data management, policy development, and staff training, ensuring efficiency and compliance across 25+ programs serving thousands annually.

Alexis played a vital role in launching the Emergency Housing Voucher Supportive Services Team, expanding housing support for vulnerable individuals. She also serves as Co-Chair of Santa Barbara County VOAD, enhancing disaster response coordination between nonprofits and emergency management.

A Certified HIPAA Professional and trauma-informed care instructor, Alexis holds dual B.S. degrees in Elementary Education and History from the University of Mobile and is completing an M.S. in Nonprofit Administration at Louisiana State University Shreveport.

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

Jessica Berrih is a nonprofit development professional specializing in donor engagement, grant research, and fundraising strategy. In her three years at Good Samaritan Shelter, she has led donor communications, proposal writing, and marketing efforts, including a full rebranding of the organization with a new logo, website, and outreach materials.

Previously, as an AmeriCorps VISTA, Jessica helped secure $1.5M+ in funding through grant support and event coordination. She holds an M.A. in Arts Administration (University of Kentucky), a B.S. in Visual Communication Design (University of Evansville), and a Graduate Certificate in Environmental Sustainability (University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign). She also holds a Google UX Design Certificate.