MEET THE SPARKLE INITIATIVE LEADERSHIP TEAM

From passion project to compassion platform, we are honored to introduce the Team of people that volunteer their time, hearts, and minds to make this initiative tick, tock, and take comprehensive healing straight to the community.

MARIA AYALA, LSWAIC
Founder & President

Born in Prosser and raised in the Lower Valley, Maria is the proud daughter of immigrant parents who learned the power of resilience early and often. Achieving her Master's in Social Work, Substance Use Certification, and Independent Clinical Social Worker Associate status, she has shared professional shine in diverse settings such as community organizations, crisis response centers, and school systems. She not only utilizes compassion and forward thought as the Founder of this Initiative, but helps others understand that they too can make sure no one, for any reason, has to carry emotional burdens or environmental challenges in silence.

STEVEN COX
Founder & Vice President

Steven is a submarine veteran, a dedicated father and, a passionate advocate for empowerment and emotional wellness. As a Social Work student, he brings a unique mix of life experience, heart, and leadership to our mission. He believes every person deserves to feel seen, heard, and hopeful - and he is committed to building a future where all can shine. Recently honored as the Community Ally of the Year by the Tri-Cities Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Steven is able to combine modern treatment theories with a deeply embedded drive to make a difference, and understands that strengthening the systems that shape our society is how we build stronger people and communities.

YEIMI RAMOS
Treasurer

Yeimi is a devoted mother, preschool teacher at Benton Franklin Head Start, and passionate advocate for young children and families. Originally from Mexico, she brings warmth, dedication, and heart to everything she does both personally and professionally. Yeimi is excited to take on a new role as treasurer at Sparkle Initiative, where she'll support community empowerment and emotional growth by ensuring our donations are having the highest impact possible. Her attention to detail, osmotic optimism, and local connections allow her to maximize Sparkle Initiative's community influence in full.

BETH POULIN
Engagement & Events

With a background in Non-Profits, Mental Health, Substance Use Recovery, and Small Business Start-Ups, Beth utilizes authentic energy and evocative strategies to share stories and spread messages. She is thrilled to bring a focus to the nuances between connection, communication, and compassion. She loves being outdoors, loves her rescue Pitbull Piglet even more, and loves bringing to life the ideas of those that want to make a difference the most. She was drawn to the Sparkle Initiative because she believes that when it comes to wellness, everyone deserves not only a chance, but a choice.

ANYLA MCDONALD
Secretary

Anyla is a local author, peer counselor, student advocate, consultant, motivational speaker, poet, journalist, and activist dedicated to uplifting BI-POC communities in Washington. She has shared insights on diversity, social equity, and inclusion at Whitman College, WSU, Walla Walla High School, and other respected institutions. She leads the Academic Achievement program with AACCES, serves as Youth Advisor for the NAACP Tri-Cities, and chairs the DEIA committee. With over 10 certifications through the Walla Walla School District, Anyla continues to empower youth and communities, advocating for change and fostering inclusion in education and beyond.

DR. NIKI HARRIS
Board Member

Dr. Harris is a Human Resources Business Partner at Amazon, using her Ph.D., Master of Public Administration, and SHRM certification to provide expertise in leadership development and organizational dynamics. Her research focuses on leadership identity development, with emphasis on the lived experiences of Black women leaders - her work contributes to the broader conversation about diversity, equity and inclusion in organizational leadership. An avid reader, she is an advocate for public libraries and their power to transform lives through knowledge access. With her husband JP, son Theo, and mother Carole, Niki embraces the richness of multi-generational family life.

NOE CASTILLO JR.
Board Member

A proud third-generation carpenter, Noe learned his trade early and alongside family and mentors who instilled in him the values of hard work, humility, and service. He has built a deep respect for the craft and the people who dedicate their lives to it. Today, as the leader of a locally renowned commercial construction company in Pasco, Noe approaches each project as more than just a job - it’s a way to serve his community and uplift others. His passion lies in helping people get on the right track, whether by offering guidance, sharing opportunities, or working side-by-side to bring out the best and brightest in those around him.

TJ LEE
Board Member

TJ is a loving husband, devoted father, and passionate mentor who brings his heart and hustle to everything he does. With a decade-long professional football career in the CFL, TJ has used the power of sports to connect with youth, inspire change, and uplift communities. He has spent several years working in schools, mentoring students, and teaching life skills through real-life experiences with authentic connection. His commitment to empowering young people - especially those facing tough odds - aligns perfectly with our mission. TJ reminds us that leadership isn’t just about being seen, it is truly about seeing others.

KRISTAL SOLORZANO
Intern

A successful Social Work student at Heritage University, Kristal is passionate about advocating for minority communities and breaking the stigma around mental health. Growing up she saw firsthand the impact of limited access to support, which fueled her dedication to create safe and inclusive spaces for individuals to feel heard, understood, and empowered. Through her work in her own studies, the classrooms of others, and the community as a whole, Kristal is committed to promoting mental wellness, resilience, and equity for all. She brings a fervent focus on ideas generation and an enhanced recognition to Sparkle's local impact.

BRICEYDA MEZA ZURITA
Intern

Briceyda's maturity and cultural outlook goes far beyond her 21 years, and she is currently working toward her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work at Heritage University. When she’s not studying, Briceyda enjoys going to the gym, fishing, and spending quality time with her family. Her passion for helping others drives her goal of advocating for individuals, families, and communities to improve overall well-being. She is poised to combine her community knowledge, formal education, and genuine disposition to enhance the lives of all that need it.

ARACELI SANCHEZ
Intern

Araceli has a strong passion for helping others, which shines through her love for volunteering, spending time outdoors, and connecting with people through shared experiences. She is currently working toward her Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work and is committed to advocating for families and empowering communities - especially within school settings. Her goal is to support students and families by promoting access to resources, fostering inclusion, and creating environments where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. She is able to make people comfortable from all backgrounds, and willing to take on any task that supports our success.

LOOKING TO LEAD? Connect with us to explore joining our Board, our Team, or our Community of Volunteers!