The Advance OC Story

Our History

Our journey began with a simple yet profound realization: that an individual’s potential should never be determined by their zip code. Since 2019, we have been inspired by our experiences witnessing the disparities in opportunity across Orange County, California (and surrounding communities), and set out to create innovative community solutions that harness the power of data and strategic philanthropy to drive meaningful change. 

Our mission is clear: to close the gaps in opportunity and foster thriving communities. We envision a future where opportunity is a right for all, not a privilege.

Today, we are a dynamic organization committed to identifying and addressing inequities while empowering communities across the nation. We strive to create a future where everyone, everywhere, has the opportunity to achieve their full potential.

Our Staff

We are proud to be a 100% BIPOC organization, led by a dedicated team of passionate community advocates. With expertise in data science, public health, theology, family law, social work, and technology, we bring together diverse perspectives that enrich our work. Our personal stories and shared vision unite us, forming a committed team that deeply understands the complexities of inequity and harnesses the transformative power of collaboration.

Together, we are not just addressing health equity; we are forging a path toward lasting change and a more equitable future for all.

Torhon Barnes
Elsy Mejia
Hac Henderson
Mike Marmolijo
Irma Gil
Kevin Huang
Antonio Rodriguez

Torhon BarnesProject Coordinator

Bio
Torhon is a former foster child and social work professional with over 20 years of leadership experience in public health and non-profit administration. He has a proven track record of promoting equity and supporting underserved communities. Recognized for his effective program management and team leadership, Torhon has received several awards, including the 2024 Future Leaders Award from the OC Black Chamber. He serves on the Advisory Board for the California Department of Public Health’s Black Health Equity Advisory Group and the Calbright College Healthcare Advisory Council. Torhon is a published co-author of “Teaching Hope: Stories from the Freedom Writer Teachers.”
Torhon holds a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Southern California and a Bachelor’s degree in Child and Adolescent Studies from California State University, Fullerton. He is also a champion of adult intramural sports and is dedicated to helping others turn their tragedies into triumph!

What would you do on a free Saturday?
Take an early morning hike, pick-up flag football game in the afternoon, and a nice dinner with family/friends.

If you could teach any class, what would it be?
I would teach a cooking class.

What is one thing about your hometown that you would brag about?
Sacramento, CA – Our golden nuggets are Dr. Cornel West, LeVar Burton, and the Sacramento Kings along with many Olympic athletes and stars.

Elsy MejiaEquity Consultant

Bio
Elsy is a proud graduate of Cal State University, Long Beach, where she earned both her Master of Public Health and Bachelor of Science in Health Science with a focus on Community Health Education. A dedicated public health professional, Elsy has extensive experience serving underserved communities. Bilingual in Spanish and English, she specializes in bridging language and cultural barriers to ensure equitable access to health resources. Elsy has a strong background in community outreach, data collection, research, and translation. Passionate about promoting health equity, she has collaborated on needs assessments and health education projects, leaving a positive impact on community well-being.

What would you do on a free Saturday?
I would go on a long hike with my family, followed by a coffee date and a relaxing massage.

If you could teach any class, what would it be?
I would love to teach a nutrition class, especially for moms-to-be. I believe that everything we eat impacts us, whether in the short or long term. Healthy eating habits established early in life can significantly influence health outcomes in the future.

What is one thing about your hometown that you would brag about?
My hometown is Puerto de La Libertad in El Salvador, known for its beautiful beaches that are popular among surfers. Puerto la Libertad has even hosted the World Masters Surfing Championship, organized by the International Surfing Association, making it one of the top surfing destinations.

Hac HendersonAdministrative Coordinator

Bio
Hac has experience in hospitality and event planning and enjoys supporting others through organization and service. Married for over 20 years and a proud mother of two, she values commitment, connection, and community. She stays involved in her children’s school and contributes to several fundraising committees throughout Orange County. With a personal passion for health and wellness, Hac is excited to support Advance OC’s mission and help create meaningful, lasting impact in the region.

What would you do on a free Saturday?
On a free Saturday, I would play pickleball in the morning and curl up with a book in the afternoon.

If you could teach any class, what would it be?
If I could teach any class it would be a strength and weight lifting class.

What is one thing about your hometown that you would brag about?
Denton, Texas is a small college town with a laid-back vibe and a surprisingly big jazz scene.

Mike MarmolijoIT Administrator

Bio
I am currently a 2nd year MPH student at the University of Southern California. I enjoy learning about community health promotion and made a career switch because of it!

What would you do on a free Saturday?
Watching college football in the fall or watching baseball in the spring or summer.

If you could teach any class, what would it be? 
Ceramics!

What is one thing about your hometown that you would brag about?
Waco, Texas – we love our sports and the people are nice!

Irma GilOffice Manager

Bio
Irma is the office manager at Advance OC. She is a first-generation Mexican American and loves to engage with the community and help those in need. With a proven track record in community engagement, particularly within the Latinx population, Irma’s contributions to projects like the COVID-19 and Older Adults Needs Assessments have been invaluable. Her bilingual skills, coupled with a genuine passion for community enhancement, make her an essential part of our team, ensuring that diverse voices are heard and accounted for in our initiatives.

What would you do on a free Saturday?
I like to go hiking

If you could teach any class, what would it be? 
Cooking class ( Mexican food )

What is one thing about your hometown that you would brag about?
It has the biggest celebration for Dia de Los Muertos

Kevin HuangEquity Consultant

Bio
Kevin Huang is a Project Coordinator at Advance OC, where he supervises interns and supports various data and research initiatives. He began his time at Advance OC as an intern, where he developed an interest in research and data collection. He graduated from California State University, Fullerton, in 2026 with a B.S. in Public Health and plans to pursue a career in occupational health and safety. Bilingual in Cantonese and English, Kevin is committed to supporting Advance OC’s broader goals.

What would you do on a free Saturday?
On a free Saturday, I like spending my time outdoors, either hiking or fishing with friends.

If you could teach any class, what would it be?
I would love to teach a swimming class!

What is one thing about your hometown that you would brag about?
One thing I would brag about is the food scene in the San Gabriel Valley. It’s home to some of the most diverse and authentic Asian food in the country, from Cantonese and Sichuan to Taiwanese and Vietnamese cuisine. Whether you’re craving dim sum, hot pot, or boba, there’s something for everyone, and you don’t have to travel far to find it.

Antonio RodriguezData Analyst

Bio
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Antonio is a recent graduate from the University of California, Irvine, with a master’s degree in data science and a bachelor’s in computer science from California State University, Dominguez Hills. He is passionate about machine learning, data engineering, and analytics, eager to leverage my skills to drive meaningful insights and innovations.

What would you do on a free Saturday?
Relax and enjoy college football.

If you could teach any class, what would it be?
“Advanced Overthinking: When ‘What If’ Is Your Default Setting.” No final exam; just a multiple-choice quiz where every answer seems equally wrong.

What is one thing about your hometown that you would brag about?
The Rock bands to come from the Los Angeles Area.

Board Members

1
Th
Tim Henderson
Tim Henderson
2
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Katherine Amoukhteh
Katherine Amoukhteh
3
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Katie Kalvoda
Katie Kalvoda
4
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Dr. Clayton Chau
Dr. Clayton Chau
5
Kg
Kelita Hull-Gardner
Kelita Hull-Gardner
8
Jc
James Chisum
James Chisum
9
Km
Kim Monti
Kim Monti
10
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Derek Angelo Serrano
Derek Angelo Serrano
11
Kk
Karin Kalk
Karin Kalk

Advisory Committee Members

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our Advisory Committee Members, whose domain expertise significantly enhances our engagement and reach into the community. These independent advisors play a crucial role in supporting our efforts, though they do not convene, serve on the Board of Directors, or influence our operational decisions.Their insights help us effectively connect with and uplift the voices of those we serve.

1
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Barry Ross
Executive Director, Justice Partnerships, Sisters of St.Joseph Healthcare Foundation & Sisters of St. Joseph of Orange Fund
Barry Ross
2
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Dr. Connie Bartlett
Chief Medical Officer at National Healthcare and Housing Advisors
Dr. Connie Bartlett
3
Am
Alexandria Macias,PH.D
Professor of Political Science California State University Northridge
Alexandria Macias,PH.D
4
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Shirish Dayal
Executive Vice President, Tarsadia Foundation
Shirish Dayal
5
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Yemi Adeyanju
Vice President, Deputy General Counsel and Corporate Secretary
Yemi Adeyanju
6
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Robert V. “Bobby”McDonald
President/CEO Orange County Black Chamber & Black Chamber Education Fund
Robert V. “Bobby”McDonald
7
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Padhraic Smyth
Chancellor’s Professor, Department of Computer SCience and Statistics, University of California, Irvine
Padhraic Smyth
8
Ac
Antonia Castro-Graham
Vice President Policy and Regulatory Affairs at Avantus
Antonia Castro-Graham
9
Sc
Suzanna Tashiro Choi
President/Owner at Tashiro Choi & Associates
Suzanna Tashiro Choi
10
En
Elysabeth Nguyen,PH.D. MBA
Social Entrepreneur, CEO of OLLV Foundation
Elysabeth Nguyen,PH.D. MBA
11
Dc
Denise Carter
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Expert
Denise Carter
12
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Karen Williams
Expert in Housing and Homelessness
Karen Williams
13
Hc
Helen Cameron
Expert in Housing and Homelessness
Helen Cameron
14
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Paul Wyatt
Former City of Dana Point Council Member; Orange County Commission to End Homelessness
Paul Wyatt
15
Cg
Cathleen Greiner
Center for Entrepreneurship, NOCCCD
Cathleen Greiner
16
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Jennifer Robinette
Chapman University Assistant Professor of Health Psychology
Jennifer Robinette