Our Team, Enhanced Care Managers, Housing Navigators.
Our Team, Enhanced Care Managers, Housing Navigators.
Executive Director
Veronica Lara
Veronica Lara is a seasoned executive leader with a strong passion for improving community health and well-being. As an experienced Chief Executive Officer, she has a proven track record of developing and managing healthcare and social service programs that address the needs of vulnerable populations. Bilingual in English and Spanish, Veronica excels in strategic leadership, stakeholder engagement, and program development, ensuring sustainable impact through innovative solutions. Currently Veronica provides strategic oversight and leadership for Enhanced Care Management(ECM) and Community Supports (CS) services, along with (CHW) Community Health Worker services at a local Community Based Organization. She drives program success by engaging healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies, fostering strong collaborations that improve service delivery and expand organizational impact. With a Master of Arts in Psychology from Chapman University, Veronica’s background in counseling, case management, and social work informs her expertise in mental health, community outreach, and social determinants of health. She has held key roles in care management, social work, behavioral health, and housing navigation, supporting diverse populations, including justice-involved individuals, youth, and people experiencing homelessness. Veronica is a State Certified Peer Support Specialist and Community Health Worker, bringing a holistic, trauma-informed approach to leadership and service delivery. She is deeply committed to mentorship, workforce development, and strengthening culturally responsive care models that promote health equity. Her leadership philosophy is rooted in collaboration, empowerment, and advocacy, ensuring that individuals and communities receive equitable access to care, essential resources, and opportunities for long-term stability and well-being.
Our Organizational Chart
Our Team
Our team consists of skilled lead care managers, housing navigators, community health workers and outreach specialists who are passionate about making a difference. We collaborate closely with local healthcare providers, social workers, and community organizations to provide a comprehensive network of support.
Executive Director Veronica Lara brings a wealth of experience in case management, housing navigation and program development. Alongside David Balch, a licensed attorney providing free legal service and Dr. Christa Balch, a medical doctor specializing in addiction medicine, the HATS team is well-equipped to tackle the complex needs of our community.
Get to Know a little bit more of the HATS team below:
Meet the Team
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Miguel Davalos
Director of Operations
I am a Director of Operations with over six years of experience in technology, focused on building strong teams and creating systems that support effective work and positive, sustainable change. I care deeply about helping staff succeed while ensuring the organization remains strong and responsive to the members we serve.
Growing up with firsthand exposure to trauma, addiction, and homelessness shaped my resilience and outlook. These experiences influence a leadership style grounded in accountability, compassion, and consistency. Rather than positioning myself as an inspiration, I believe in showing what is possible when someone takes ownership of their direction and commits to growth. I value collaboration and enjoy connecting with community organizations to build stronger partnerships across counties. I lead with integrity and purpose, serving as an advocate for dignity, opportunity, and lasting progress within the communities Health Advocacy Team Support serves.
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Martha Chavarria
Director of Human Resource & Compliance
Human Resource Management is the backbone of any successful organization, extending far beyond hiring and payroll. With over 25 years of leadership experience in talent acquisition, performance management, employee development, customer service, and effective communication, I am eager to support the team. Promoting fairness, inclusion, and compliance is critical in shaping workforce culture.
My background includes over 13 years as a Board Trustee for the North Monterey County Unified School District and over a decade serving as President of a local LULAC chapter. These roles align closely with the mission of HATS, and I am excited to contribute both my professional experience and my passion for community advocacy to the organization.
Best regards,
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Derek Valencia
Intake Coordinator
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Lilly Brandon
Billing Specialist
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Sonia Moreno
Lead Care Manager
May you be proud of the work you do, the person you are, and the difference you make.
10 years of working with my community.
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Bianca Nieto
Lead Care Manager
Bianca Nieto is a dedicated resident of Hollister with a strong passion for helping others. As a recovering addict, she has transformed her life and committed herself to making a positive impact in her community. Bianca holds an Associate of Arts (AA) degree in Addiction Studies, equipping her with valuable knowledge to support individuals struggling with substance use issues. In addition, she has earned a State Certified Peer Support Specialist Certificate and a Community Health Worker Certificate, further enhancing her ability to connect with and assist those in need. Raised in both Hollister and Salinas, Bianca has a deep connection to Monterey County as well as San Benito County and is passionate about serving her community, working tirelessly to promote health, recovery, and well-being for its residents.
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Adriana Lerma
Lead Care Manager
I am an ECM provider and CNA with over 15 years of experience working with the elderly. Throughout my career, I’ve dedicated myself to giving back to my community and helping those in need. I firmly believe in showing compassion, respect, and dignity to everyone, no matter the situation.
My passion for caregiving goes beyond just providing services—it’s about making a difference in people’s lives and ensuring they feel valued. I am a family-oriented individual, outgoing, and bring a sense of humor to everything I do. When I’m not working, I enjoy listening to music, attending concerts and events, hiking, and hosting BBQs.
"May you be proud of the work you do, the person you are, and the difference you make."
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Chantal Velazquez
Lead Care Manager
I was born and raised in the Salinas Valley, the daughter of parents who immigrated to the U.S. as children and the granddaughter of hardworking fieldworkers. Growing up in a world filled with love and resilience taught me early on to lead with compassion and to truly understand the heart of every person I meet.
My journey in service began at age 17 as a CNA, and over the years, I have intentionally sought out diverse experiences to better help my community. From gaining pharmacy and medical knowledge as a Veterinary Technician to working in a maximum-security psychiatric unit—where I gained firsthand insight into the complexities of mental health—I have learned how to care for people in their most vulnerable moments.
As a Certified Community Health Worker (CHW), I am deeply grateful to return to my roots and give back to the valley that raised me. I am here to be your advocate, your partner, and a welcoming hand to help you navigate your journey to wellness.
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Catalina Torres
Lead Care Manager
As a dedicated member of the Health Advocacy Team Support, I serve as an Enhanced Care Management (ECM), providing compassionate and coordinated support to individuals navigating complex health and social challenges. With a background as a Licensed Vocational Nurse (LVN), I bring a clinical foundation to my advocacy work, allowing me to approach care with both empathy and expertise.
Since stepping into ECM in March, I’ve been committed to helping individuals who need a strong advocate in their corner—regardless of background or circumstance. I collaborate closely with clients, providers, and community partners to ensure access to the services and support systems they need to thrive. My approach is person-centered, strengths-based, and grounded in the belief that everyone deserves to be heard, supported, and empowered in their care journey.
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Michelle Campa
Lead Care Manager
Michelle Campa brings a powerful blend of professional expertise and lived experience
to her role as a Lead Care Manager at HATS. With an extensive background in serving
diverse and vulnerable populations, Michelle has dedicated her career to supporting
individuals facing addiction, homelessness, and the complexities of re-entry for the
justice-impacted community.
Michelle holds an educational background in Alcohol and Other Drugs (A.O.D.) and is
deeply passionate about the life-changing impact of Enhanced Care Management
(ECM). She is a lifelong learner who remains committed to evolving her practice to
better serve those in need.
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Natalie Vargas
Lead Care Manager
As someone who was born and raised in Salinas, I have spent over a decade working closely with individuals and families in our community. With experience in the medical field and a Bachelor’s degree in Social and Behavioral Sciences from California State University, my work is rooted in service, compassion, and advocacy. Giving back to the community that raised me has always been my goal, and I remain deeply committed to supporting and uplifting those around me.
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Janette Amezcua
Lead Care Manager
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Karina Ramirez
Lead Care Manager
I’m an Enhanced Care Manager with two years of case management experience, working closely with individuals from diverse backgrounds. My experience includes supporting individuals with disabilities and working with veterans, helping them navigate services and access the care they need. I’m passionate about person-centered care, care coordination, and advocating for people to reach their goals and improve their overall quality of life.
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Teresa Gonzales
Lead Care Manager
I have worked in the mental health field for over 10 years and committed to bettering my community by providing support services.
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Angel Leyva
Lead Housing Navigator
Angel Leyva, Lead Housing Navigator with HATS—Health Advocacy Team Support—is a committed community advocate who uses his lived experience to inspire hope and drive meaningful change. A devoted father of five, Angel draws strength from his faith in Jesus Christ and the unwavering support of his life partner.
Having overcome addiction, homelessness, and the threat of incarceration, Angel successfully completed his recovery through an outpatient program. Today, he is passionate about helping others find stability, purpose, and a second chance through compassion, connection, and advocacy.
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Arturo Sanchez
Housing Navigator
My name is Arturo Sanchez Sr. I am a Housing Navigator for HATS Health Advocacy Team Support.
I wanted to share a little bit about myself. I was born in Mexico and came to the Salinas Valley when I was four years old. I have been a resident of Salinas for the past 48 years. Growing up, I had a strong passion for trucks, which led me to a 27-year career in trucking.
Recently, thanks to the support of God, my family, and friends, I decided to embark on a new journey. I am now dedicated to helping my community by working with the homeless population. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing the people I assist with finding housing and witnessing their happiness – that is what truly motivates me to continue this important work.
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Diego Lara
Housing Navigator
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Maria Long
Housing Navigator
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Esmeralda Lopez
Housing Navigator
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Naomi Corona
Housing Navigator
Naomi Corona is an Enhanced Care Manager and Housing Navigator with over eight years of experience working in the social services field. She has a strong background in housing navigation and has supported many individuals and families in finding housing, accessing resources, and working toward stability.
Naomi is passionate about serving her community and enjoys building genuine connections with the people she works with. She takes pride in advocating for others, meeting people where they are, and helping them move forward with dignity, support, and encouragement.
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Jazzlyn Rodriguez
Housing Navigator
I am a dedicated Housing Navigator with over 8 years of community collaborative work supporting individuals experiencing housing instability. Born and raised in East Salinas, I bring a strong understanding of the local community and its resources. I work closely with members, care teams, and community partners to identify housing options, coordinate documentation, and navigate supportive services while advocating for stable housing outcomes.
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Brandon Guerrero
Housing Navigator
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Cyanna Serrano
Housing Navigator
I’m a Lead Care Manager with five years of experience specializing in advocacy for individuals with disabilities. Growing up in a very small town, I learned early on that community and personal connection are everything. That 'neighborly' perspective is exactly what I bring to my work in Enhanced Care Management (ECM). With my educational background in Communication Sciences and Disorders, I am passionate about ensuring that every member—regardless of their challenges—has a voice and feels truly heard. My goal is to bridge the gap between complex healthcare systems and the real-world needs of the people I serve.
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Vicenta Solorzano
Housing Navigator
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Fernando Valdez
Lead Care Manager
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Zoe Mendez
CSUMB Intern