Mr. Lee Wallace is a passionate and visionary leader dedicated to uplifting and empowering others. Having overcome homelessness and hardship throughout his life, Lee brings a unique combination of lived experience and professional expertise to the nonprofit and healthcare industries. His commitment to service began in his youth, guided by his faith in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. Mentored by leaders in the nonprofit and faith communities, Lee cultivated a deep passion for helping others and developed the skills to make a broad impact.

With over eight years of executive leadership and strong entrepreneurial acumen, Lee is a solution-focused professional with a proven track record of success. He has extensive experience in strategic planning, program management, and nonprofit administration, with a consistent focus on building strategic, lasting relationships across sectors.

In addition to his nonprofit work, Lee has served as Owner/President & CEO of a private residential care business. Mr. Wallace's experience as an owner-operator reinforced his ability to provide holistic and sustainable services in any setting. His consulting work has also given him expertise in areas from financial management and regulatory compliance to strategic planning and implementation for a wide range of organizations, including home health, transportation, and property management.

Since 2018, Lee has served as the Founder/President and CEO of United Social Services Inc. (USS). Under his guidance, USS has provided housing and essential services to over 3,400 individuals. He has also managed more than $1.1 million in unrestricted funding to support USS's programming and mission. Lee's leadership in this role extends to directing vision and strategy, partnering with the Board of Directors on governance, and leading day-to-day operations, fundraising, and donor relations. He is also an expert at designing, executing, and assessing programs to meet the needs of diverse populations.

Recognized as a respected leader, Lee is known for his strategic thinking, persuasive communication, and ability to build sustainable partnerships. His work has earned the trust of donors, partners, staff, and stakeholders throughout the community. Lee's long-term vision is to build strong, inclusive, and thriving communities where every individual has access to stability, opportunity, and support. As he says, "I want to build a world where a person's past doesn't define their future. Everyone deserves chances at stability and hope.

Training Specialist VI /Texas Health & Human Services Commission & Business Owner -Transportation Company

Mrs. Nze Mebiame currently serves as a Training Specialist VI with the Texas Health and Human Services Commission, specializing in training and development for Long-term Care (LTC) Regulation staff. With a background as a Healthcare Facility Surveyor for Ascellon Corporation and Health Science Technician at the Center for Toxicology and Environmental Health, Mrs. Nze Mebiame brings extensive experience in regulatory compliance, health education, and customer service. 

Mrs. Desiree's career experience as a Nutritionist at The Social and Health Research Center, where she educated students on nutrition before advancing to regulatory roles with Texas Health and Human Services. She has supported healthcare compliance during the COVID-19 pandemic and developed a strong foundation in data management, program development, and community health. 

Mrs. Nze Mebiame joined the board of USS due to her dedication to public health and social support. She is passionate about the organization’s mission to serve marginalized communities, aligning with her values of inclusivity and empowerment.  Mrs. Nze Mebiame's goal is to help USS expand its reach, maintain high standards for program quality, and uphold compliance. 

Holding an M.P.H. in Social and Behavioral Health with a focus on Community Health and Management, as well as bachelor’s degrees in Biomedical Science and Nutritional Science from Texas A&M University, Mrs. Desiree is based in Texas and actively supports her community outside of work. Mrs. Nze Mebiame's vision is for USS to grow its services and partnerships to create a comprehensive support system for those in need. She hopes her work will contribute to lasting changes, ensuring that vulnerable individuals have the resources and opportunities to thrive. 

Desiree is particularly proud of her role in training new LTC staff and supporting healthcare compliance. "The strength of a community is measured by its support for those most in need. Together, we can create a future where everyone has the resources to build a fulfilling life." Volunteering or supporting USS is a meaningful way to make a difference. Even a small effort can bring hope to those in need, and each contribution helps build a stronger, more inclusive community. 

Business Owner-Entrepreneur/Life Insurance/Fitness

Mr. Al brings a wealth of experience and passion for community service to the board of directors at United Social Services Inc. (USS). As a life insurance adjuster servicing clients across seven states, including Texas and Georgia, and a pre-need funeral counselor for members in the Metro Atlanta area. Mr. Jervier dedicates his career to supporting families through emotionally challenging times. 

Mr. Al has a Bachelor’s Degree in Occupational Education, specializing in Financial Management, and is a licensed Financial Management Craftsman. He possesses expertise in fiscal policy, budgeting, financial analysis, and resource management, having managed multimillion-dollar budgets supporting military operations. These vital skills strengthen United Social Services Inc. (USS) organization’s ability to meet the needs of our community. 

Mr. Al Jervier is originally from the island of Dominica in the French West Indies. He migrated to the United States at age ten. His journey brought him to an Army base in Germany and then to Chicago, where he completed high school before joining the U.S. Air Force. Mr. Jervier's global experience sparked a lifelong passion for helping others, honed through travel, diverse perspectives, and service to communities. 

Mr. Al Jervier retired from the U.S. Air Force. He is a service member and a disabled veteran. Al understands firsthand the unique challenges faced by many USS consumers. Mr. Jervier's commitment to inclusivity and compassion drives his dedication to impacting those in need, particularly vulnerable communities facing hardship. Outside of his professional life, Al J. enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, traveling, live music, and the performing arts, as well as relaxing with his beloved pet. 

At United Social Services Inc. (USS), Al leverages his financial and resource management expertise, hoping to see the organization’s vision thrive and expand. Mr. Jervier firmly believes that with the ongoing support of United Social Services Inc. (USS), communities of donors, every individual served will find dignity, support, and hope for a brighter future.

Executive Operational Planning Director/USAA

Ms. Brown leads the efforts to influence policy, drive change, and expand access to critical resources for San Antonio’s vulnerable communities with USS. Ms. Brown is originally from a small town in Iowa and moved to Texas in 1985. She graduated in 2020 with a Bachelor's in Leadership Studies and a minor in Psychology (summa cum laude) from the University of the Incarnate Word.

Ms. Brown empathizes with USS’s mission statement as she did not grow up with a good support system, and there were times when housing, transportation, and meals were not readily available. With Laura's educational and legal background, mostly in the corporate governance realm, Ms. Brown brings a strategic and people-centered approach to advocacy. This experience has given her a strong foundation in strategic planning, organizational development, effective decision-making, and insight into human behavior, motivation, and the challenges faced by vulnerable populations.  Passionate about fostering collaboration, Ms. Brown will work closely with policymakers, nonprofit leaders, and community stakeholders to craft solutions that address both immediate needs and long-term challenges. The opportunity to serve USS was an opportunity for Ms. Brown to contribute and help others. By fostering stronger partnerships and increasing resource accessibility, we can ensure that people receive the support they need, not just for temporary relief but for long-term stability and dignity. 

We must accept finite disappointment, but never lose infinite hope.  ~ Martin Luther King, Jr.

Senior Business Operations Manager/American Red Cross

Mrs. Fernandez is an accomplished operations leader with over two decades of experience with people, programs, and budget management across various sectors. Currently serving at a national nonprofit, Laura brings profound expertise in operational strategy, program execution, finance, and community outreach, honed through a career that began in the Dominican Republic and progressed through logistics, project management, and nonprofit leadership.

Her connection to USS is deeply personal and mission-driven. As an immigrant and dedicated advocate, Laura has witnessed the life-changing impact of inclusive spaces where individuals feel seen and supported, echoing USS's commitment to uplifting marginalized communities. She is eager to contribute to the Board by enhancing operational strategy and championing sustainable, community-led initiatives, especially those focused on stable housing, minority rights advocacy, and services for people with disabilities.

With an MBA and a strong business background, Laura is originally from the Dominican Republic and now calls the U.S. home. Outside of her professional life, she enjoys running, writing, and volunteering. Laura serves on multiple nonprofit boards with a steadfast commitment to service and justice. Her vision for USS is to see it flourish as a compassionate community hub that empowers long-term, resilient change. Laura's notable achievements include leading teams through multimillion-dollar budgets and complex transitions, and being recognized as co-chair of VIDA, a Latino leadership group. Her guiding philosophy is: "If you feel the pull to give back, follow it. You don’t need to be perfect to make a difference, just present and willing."

Cybersecurity and Technical Strategy Professional/Defense Sector

Mr. Johnson is a seasoned cybersecurity and technical strategy professional primarily working in the defense sector. His career spans over two decades, evolving from a Software Engineer into roles as a Data Scientist, Reverse Engineer, and, most recently, a Security Architect, showcasing his progression into network security and cybersecurity leadership. His journey has equipped him with deep expertise in cybersecurity, web development, risk management, data system implementation, technology operations, project management, and strategic planning. Jonathan was drawn to the USS board by its commitment to combining direct service with advocacy to tackle systemic inequities. The mission to serve marginalized communities and promote dignity resonates deeply with his personal values of equity, empowerment, and inclusion. While Mr. Johnson hasn't had direct personal experience with all the issues USS addresses, he actively supports affected individuals and organizations through volunteering, mentoring, and providing pro bono technology guidance to expand access to services.

As a Board Member, Jonathan aims to identify innovative solutions that expand outreach and community engagement, improve data systems for more effective impact measurement, and build digital tools that make services accessible for all clients and communities. He is particularly passionate about USS initiatives focused on digital inclusion and technology equity, homelessness prevention services, strengthening data-driven reporting and transparency, and building partnerships to improve technology resources for underserved communities. Originally from Maryland, Jonathan holds degrees in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance, along with professional certifications in cybersecurity and project management. Outside of work, he enjoys exploring new technologies, tackling DIY projects, and uplifting the community. He actively mentors young professionals entering the tech field and loves spending time with his family and discovering local restaurants.

Jonathan envisions USS expanding its services in the coming years, becoming a leader in supporting marginalized communities, strengthening partnerships, and increasing its impact through innovative programs and data-informed strategies. Mr. Johnson hopes to help USS operate more efficiently, tell its story through data, and ensure every client can access support without technological barriers. His professional commendations for cybersecurity leadership and innovation, along with leading multi-million dollar technology modernization projects (including managing over $2 million in IT operations, security, and technology upgrades), underscore his capacity for significant impact. Jonathan's guiding message for others is: "Progress doesn't happen by accident. It happens when people come together with purpose, empathy, and the courage to act." He advises those looking to get involved to "Start small, stay consistent, and remember that your effort matters. Whether you share your time, your voice, or your skills, you are part of the change."

Graduate Student Leader/Illinois State University

Mr. Mutengwa brings a fresh and insightful perspective to the USS board, as he's currently pursuing his Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Analytics at Illinois State University. Beyond his studies, he's an active graduate student leader, deeply involved in various campus diversity and community engagement initiatives. His professional journey began in Zimbabwe, where he earned an Honors degree in Property Development and Estate Management. At Mashonaland Holdings Limited, a leading property investment and management firm, he honed his skills overseeing lease negotiations, property development projects, risk mitigation strategies, and investor relations. This experience ignited his passion for strategic decision-making, community upliftment, and inclusive development.

Nokutenda offers a strong foundation in finance, data analytics, real estate, project coordination, and stakeholder engagement. His expertise will be invaluable in strategic planning, resource development, and analytical decision-making. He also brings a vital cross-cultural perspective and a deep commitment to supporting marginalized communities through inclusive policy and outreach. His connection to USS is profoundly personal. As an international student from Zimbabwe, he's navigated financial and systemic limitations, making him acutely sensitive to the social and economic barriers others face. His personal journey fuels his empathy for individuals experiencing poverty, housing instability, or exclusion, driving his commitment to being part of the solution.

Nokutenda was inspired to join the USS board by its mission to serve underserved populations and create a lasting impact through community empowerment. He believes in uplifting individuals through practical support, education, and resource access, aligning perfectly with USS's work in homelessness, LGBTQ advocacy, and disability services. As a Board Member, he aims to contribute to strategic planning, strengthen operational systems, and help scale programs that change lives. He's also dedicated to supporting USS's efforts in securing grants and building sustainable partnerships. His passion lies particularly with the housing and economic empowerment programs, seeing immense value in helping people achieve independence through stable housing, career development, and education. Beyond his academic and professional pursuits, Nokutenda is actively involved in campus diversity initiatives that support international and underrepresented students, a testament to his ongoing commitment to equity. His proud achievement includes managing a 24-unit residential housing project that attracted over 10 investor bids while streamlining operational costs by over 30%. He also assisted in overseeing multi-million-dollar property development budgets and maintenance projects during his tenure at Mashonaland Holdings. Looking ahead, Nokutenda envisions USS expanding its digital footprint, scaling community programs across multiple states, and developing innovative partnerships to serve broader populations, ultimately becoming a national leader in social impact for marginalized groups. He hopes to contribute to USS’s strategic development, helping build a model that is both scalable and sustainable, empowering individuals through opportunity, mentorship, and access to vital resources.

His guiding philosophy is: "Empowerment begins when one person believes that every life holds value—and acts on it." For those considering getting involved, he advises: "Start where you are. You don’t need to have all the answers, just a willing heart, a listening ear, and a commitment to helping others rise."