Our team

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Dr. Cío Hernandez

I love helping people reach their goals by helping them believe in themselves. I started helping people reach their goals way before I was a professionally trained therapist.  I’m originally from all over Texas and am honored to work to provide opportunities to lift our South Texas residents to our highest potential.  I’ve helped start and run all sorts of projects and programs working with the homeless, disabled, health, education, equity and inclusion for communities of color, aging, youth, interfaith, sports, children’s running clubs, immigrants, mental health, public policies, violence prevention, opioid reduction, and even pioneered healthy efforts for county fairs.   That’s how I know that if we set the right goal, we can reach that goal, even if it takes some time to get there.  In my spare time, I like visiting my son in college, traveling, and running half marathons around the world with my friends and family. 

Maria Cristina Criollo, 

I’m María Cristina Criollo, “Cris.” I was born and raised in Quito, Ecuador. I hold a Bachelor's Degree in Sustainable Development, a Master's Degree in Environmental and Social Studies, and I am a certified specialist on climate change and strategic planning. I am the co-founder of La Cuchara Cultural and Gastronomic Center, an award-winning organic plant-based restaurant and fair trade store in Quito. I moved to the Bay Area in 2017 with my family, and currently work in social media marketing, sustainable business development and fundraising. I am a Board Member of the San Geronimo Valley Community Center, and live in West Marin with my husband and two children.  I love helping organizations and individuals think more strategically and sustainably about their goals for optimal success.

David Capune

As a lifelong student and occasional teacher, I am always looking for ways to make learning and student life less stressful and more fun!   I live in Seattle, Washington and enjoy taking public transportation everywhere I need to go.   My favorite goal I’ve reached, though, is probably traveling the UK by myself right after graduating high school with a tight budget.   In my spare time, I play several instruments and read anything I get my hands on.

Marcella Favarato

I was born and raised in San Antonio Texas. I attended college at Franciscan university of Steubenville in Ohio. I studied communication arts with a minor in digital broadcast and production. In 2021, my senior year of college,  I had the opportunity to apply for a scholarship with the be it foundation and I was so thankful to have been one of the first recipients for the award. After I graduated in may 2022 I continued to be a part of the be it family by taking on the job of field coordinator. I have learned many things in my time so far working for be it, and I can’t wait to see what the future has in store.

Amari Herrera

My name is Amari Herrera! I was born and raised in Laredo, Texas, where I then attended J.B. Alexander High School. Currently, I'm a freshman majoring in psychology at The University of Texas at Austin! I am very passionate about maintaining a healthy state of mind and making sure everyone receives the help they need. Therefore, I hope to work as a mental health professional in the education system, bringing assistance to students who are struggling. All in all, my goal is to make a difference in the lives of those who need support. 

Gabriela Herrera

I am a hardworking, dedicated, and motivated third year Business Administration college student. I am experienced as a professional assistance in communication skills, looking to learn more about marketing, and finance. I am a former Girl Scout and spent 13 years as a part of this organization. Within those years, I earned my Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Presidential Volunteer Service Awards. I hope to continue my education and earn a masters in Finance. I want to empower my community to achieve financial literacy. In my free time, I enjoy reading, spending time with friends and family, and playing tennis.

Carmen Guana