FOUNDER/CEO

For 25 years Rhonda Holbert served as Director of Special Projects for the Los Angeles Urban League where she collaborated with business community leaders to form LA Collaborative. She also facilitated and lead business development learning, managing and implementation of new business opportunities in addition to facilitating educational workshops and programs. Ms. Holbert obtained a Masters of Ministry and was ordained as a Pastor of Christian Education in 2001. She launched Celebrate Life Cancer Ministry after her completing treatment for breast cancer.

PROGRAMS CHAIR

Ms. Morris is currently the Program Director for Community Outreach for the UCLA School of Medicine, UCLA CTSI Community Engagement & Research Program and Co-Director of Intergenerational Initiatives, UCLA Division of Geriatrics & Internal Medicine oversees health initiatives for UCLA. In her professional work her goal is to aid in the establishment, strengthening and leveraging of linkages among families, health providers, schools and other community institutions to improve health outcomes. In her 30+ years as a health advocate and community leader, Ms. Morris has become an expert collaborator in the development of a holistic and innovative approach to tackling health barriers. Ms. Morris is unequivocally committed to the positive development of youth, families, and communities.

MEDICAL ADVISOR

(Associate Professor of Medicine, in the Division of General Internal Medicine at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Adjunct Associate Professor, Charles Drew University, and Associate Natural Scientist, RAND Corporation.) Dr. Vargas has conducted research to reduce disparities in cancer outcomes, improve detection and treatment of kidney disease, and evaluate care for patients with diabetes. In addition to conducting policy analyses and health services research he is also engaged in community-partnered research projects to reduce disparities in cancer care and to address negative social determinants of health in South Los Angeles.

FINANCIAL CHAIR

Crystal Mitchell is a business professional and the owner of Mitchell Business Solutions with a successful 20 year track record operating a profitable small business which specializes in accounting, bookkeeping, and business consulting solutions for small businesses and non-profit agencies. She is also the co-director of Recycling Black Dollars, a non-profit business that aids in the economic development of the African American community by encouraging support of Black businesses. As a small business coach and consultant, she provides entrepreneurs with access to the necessary tools, mentorship, and resources that support each stage of their business’ development to ensure growth and success.

PLANNING COMMITTEE & COMMUNICATIONS

Willie Duncan is a nonprofit specialist with over 20 years of experience serving the community of Greater Los Angeles. Formerly Senior Manager of Programs and Operations at Black Women for Wellness, Willie specializes in operational support, grant writing and management, event planning, and program development. Other skills include copywriting, website and social media content, and communications. As a cancer survivor herself, Celebrate Life has a special place in her heart and focus.