The Board of Directors
Jena Lea Barrios, BSN, RN, PHN – Founder & Executive Director
Jena Lea Barros is currently a cardiovascular nurse at a local acute care hospital whose mission is to improve the health of the communities they serve through quality care and compassion. She graduated from San Francisco State University where she received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing, subsequently obtaining her Registered Nurse and Public Health Licenses. Throughout the course of her high school and undergraduate studies, Barrios incessantly dedicated her time and efforts to the homeless community in the Bay Area and beyond through a wide array of volunteer work for various organizations including Project Homeless Connect. In addition, she is EMT-B certified and completed her preceptorship at Highland Hospital ’s Emergency Department in Oakland . Eventually, her genuine concern for the human condition combined with her relentless desire to alleviate, if not eliminate, homelessness formed a vision: to form an organization in her very own community dedicated to connecting the homeless population to resources to improve quality of life. In 2010, her vision became reality as she founded Spare for Change, Inc.
"I believe that every person deserves to live at the highest quality possible. Some people have all the resources needed to thrive, but others need a little help to get back on their feet."
Monica De Vera – Director of Administration & Services
Board Secretary
Monica De Vera is currently working in administration for Contra Costa County whose mission is to provide public services that improve the quality of life of residents and the economic viablity of its businesses. She graduated from San Francisco State University with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism, where she honed her skills and furthered her passion in community action through written media, volunteer work and activism. Upon graduation, she became a freelance writer for Oakland Tribune, San Mateo County Times and Contra Costa Times where she wrote activism, community and human interest pieces, among others, that addressed global issues such as poverty and providing viable solutions, while raising awareness in the community. De Vera has always been passionate about empowering underprivileged peoples, especially youth, by bridging them to the right information, resources and learning opportunities that equip them with the necessary tools to combat perpetual social stigmas, and help defy the flaws of the social mirror. As a Board Member and Director, De Vera hopes to provide that same empowerment to the homeless population and the community of Solano County.
Carina Marie Caccam - Chief Financial Officer
Board Treasurer