Meet The Team

I am a native Pittsburgher born and raised in the Hill District with a love affair for the Homewood-Brushton Community. During my tenure as the Homewood-Brushton YMCA’s Program Director I was under the leadership of then Executive Director, Oliva Jones. Oliva “OJ” granted me the opportunity to develop my passions for community organizing, program development, mentorship & leadership development.

During my first week of working at the YMCA Oliva told me “Rick, I need you to learn and know the names, schools, grades, address & families of 15 kids in the Homewood Community". I replied, "Ms. Jones, I got four of my own kids". OJ looked me straight in my eyes and said “Rick, they're all our kids and all our families” No truer or wiser words were ever spoken to me.

After three months of working at the YMCA, I proudly walked in Oliva’s office and said “OJ, I know the names, address, grades & families of 50 kids!!!" I was hooked! At the Homewood–Brushton YMCA, we were the epitome of the African saying, “it takes a village”.

During my 40-year career, I’ve had the proud distinction to prove honest and authentic leadership services at the following agencies, (including my current position as Director of Coaching and Reentry at Reimagine Reentry):

·     Marketing Rep & Continuing Care Coordinator, Ligioner Valley Treatment Center

·     Program Director, Homewood-Brushton YMCA

·     Associate Director, Youth Place

·     Fatherhood Coordinator, Healthy Start

·     Operations Director, Homewood-Brushton YMCA

·     Black Male Leadership Initiative, Coordinator (BMLDI)

·     SET& BCM Supervisor, Allegheny Family Network

·     Fatherhood Coordinator & Trainer, Allegheny Family Network

·     Program Director, Parental Stress Center  

·     Human Resources Rep, Rivers Casino

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I hold a Bachelors in Education/Special Education from Slippery Rock University. In the past, I was Employed with Pittsburgh Public schools for 5 years, and I have 10 years’ experience working with at risk youth. I joined the violence prevention team at the graduate school of public health in December 2014, and have been coordinating the homicide review for Allegheny County, GRIPS interventionist and outreach work in Allegheny county neighborhoods. Where our key objectives of the project are to: Stop the spread of violence. In 2019 joined in on the Reimagine Reentry team I work with the men and women reentering back into society. I have a passion for our city and want to see everyone here living to their potential. 

Julia Donnelly is the Director of Data & Evaluation at Reimagine Reentry.

Before being named Director, Julia was Reimagine Reentry’s Data & Project Manager and was responsible for all the organization’s data systems including designing, building, and maintaining their Salesforce CRM, website, and automated workflows. Since becoming Director, Julia now works alongside Reimagine Reentry’s Director of Violence Prevention and Director of Coaching to strategically evaluate and develop the infrastructure and capacity of each program, as well as continues to oversee all data and communication systems.

With a passion for promoting equity, Julia serves most importantly as an ally to her peers affected by the criminal justice system, specifically as an advocate for racial and social justice.  

Julia earned a Master’s of Public Health (MPH) and Certificate in Health Equity concentrating in Behavioral and Community Health Sciences, where she was a Health Justice Scholar, from the University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health. During her graduate studies, Julia successfully defended her Master’s thesis on the merits of using a strengths-based model in reentry programs and practices. Julia also earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences and a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from the University of Pittsburgh Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences. Julia currently sits on the advisory board for the University of Pittsburgh Bridging the Gaps program.

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As a graduate of Duquesne University, I fell in love with this city and continue to live in awe of all it has to offer and all it can grow to be. My background is in accounting and finance, and it is an honor to work with the Reimagine Reentry team and our community in growing to our highest potential and seeing all that we can achieve together. I also enjoy spending my time as a student and teacher of yoga, traveling with my partner, and hiking around the city trails.

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I serve as the Communications & Project Manager at Reimagine Reentry where I lead all grant writing and management, provide programmatic support, serve as a member of the administrative team, and maintain our social media platforms. I previously served as the Administrative Assistant to the Executive Director.

I earned my Master of Arts in History with a minor in Public History from Duquesne University, where I focused my research on the history of mass incarceration and collecting oral histories of returning citizens. I previously received my Bachelor's Degrees in Theatre and History from West Virginia University. I have worked with a number of social and restorative justice organizations, such as the Elsinore Bennu Think Tank for Restorative Justice, and spent much of my time in graduate school working to educate others on social justice issues. I additionally interned with Allegheny County Anchored Reentry (ACAR) during my time in graduate school.

Deidra .L Washington, CPM, ARM began dreaming more than 30 years ago. Inspired by a book given to her by her grandmother highlighting 75 women who changed the world, she knew that if she ever created an organization, she would name it, "I Dream a World." After this initial spark, Deidra began crafting a career and life that would allow her to gain knowledge and experience for the biggest chapters of her life to come.

Deidra obtained a B.A. in Organizational Leadership fromDuquesne University, and she is a Certified Leader and Instructor with Temple University's Strengths-Based Family Workers Credential Program. She also holds a CPM - Certified Property Manager Designation, with the Institute of Real Estate Management and is a Certified Holistic Life Coach. Most recently she became a Certified Community Mediator.

Deidra served as a Site Manager for the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh for over ten years. As a Site Manager, she understood the delicate balance of managing the property assets and discerning the needs of the residents - individually and collectively. This position found her not only doing property management work, but also social work, as she found her heart encouraged her to offer counseling and mediation, as opposed to enforcing hard and fast rules on the residents. It was clear to Deidra that if someone was struggling with staying current with their rent, it was far better to help diagnose the core issue and work through prevention instead of instantly moving toward the harshest penalties. It is her belief that if you change how a person thinks, you will change how they live.

After her time at the Housing Authority of the City of Pittsburgh, as well as having held various purposeful positions, such as Counselor Advocate, Point of Contact Caseworker, and Instructor/Case Manager, Deidra knew that it was time to bring her experience and expertise to the community at large and created "I Dream a World (IDAW)." IDAW is a holistic, purpose-driven training organization, offering life-changing workshops and professional coaching. IDAW provides expertise in training clients and organizations in the workforce development and human services fields, using a strengths-based approach. IDAW's mission is to provide authoritative leadership training and professional development with a focus on personal accountability and growth. Deidra is highly adept at offering the training and coaching that she does through IDAW because she possesses a unique blend of creative and analytical skills that generate actionable solutions for clients. She is recognized as a compelling motivator, who inspires individuals to realize their potential and to achieve success that is meaningful for them. Deidra is skilled at recognizing and serving individuals at their point of need, skill sets, and readiness for change.

Through IDAW, Deidra has had the opportunity to work with a wide variety of organizations. Specifically, she has facilitated customized workshops for each client, which has included The Energy Innovation Center Institute, AHRCO, Temple University Harrisburg, UPMC, Highmark, Consol Energy,Allegheny County Dept. of Human Services, The Builders Guild of SWPA, Pennsylvania Women Work, EARN Program, Providence Family Support Center, SmallSeeds Inc., Bethlehem Haven, Holy Family Academy, The Hill House Association and The Foundation of Hope - Allegheny County Jail Release Program.

Deidra is still dreaming and her ultimate goal is to create"I Dream a World Enterprises." This will offer three facets to address the underserved in the community - training and employment, social services and affordable housing. It has always been Deidra's passion to serve and inspire others - to encourage them to empower themselves through faith and perseverance! She gets to live out her dream every single day.

Seasons Williams, a dedicated Pittsburgh native from the Mon Valley, has 25 years of community service experience, specializing in reentry for the past 8 years. Her commitment to family and community drives her work as a Reentry Coach, where she supports individuals during pivotal transitions, helping them overcome barriers and achieve their goals.

Beginning her career with at-risk youth, Seasons has a talent for connecting with those labeled “troubled”, guiding them towards positive outcomes. Her diverse background spans socialwork, youth services, healthcare, housing, case management, and employment services, reflecting her belief in every individual’s potential.

With extensive experience in the reentry populations at organizations like Renewal, Goodwill, and Female Offenders she assisted newly released individuals in securing essential documentation for employment and stability, addressing both practical andemotional needs. Seasons holds certifications as an Offender Workforce Development Specialist and Reentry Employment Specialist, along with additional credentials in Youth Mental Health First Aid and as a certified Mediator.

Seasons is passionate about empowering individuals to overcome obstacles and advocate for their rights, fostering self-worth with empathy and respect. Her professional career is defined by confidentiality and high-quality service. With expertise in managing complex cases and developing individualized care plans, she effectively guides clients through transitions with confidence and dignity.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Seasons is a devoted mother of two, enjoys traveling, and values quality family time. She is an avid learner who aspires to never be the smartest person in the room. Her personal journey as a breast cancer survivor further fuels her dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of others.

Bobby Fletcher is a passionate advocate for change, driven by his personaljourney from adversity to success. Born and raised in Pittsburgh's Point Breezeneighborhood, Bobby grew up in the heart of a city struggling with decades oftoxic behavior and systemic challenges. Despite the hardships of hisenvironment, Bobby’s resilience and determination became the foundation of histransformative journey.

After attending Perry Traditional Academy, Bobby faced the harsh realitiesof growing up in Pittsburgh's East and North Sides during the 80s and 90s,where he not only witnessed but also contributed to the destructive cyclesaround him. Expelled from Penn Hills Sr. High School, Bobby navigated atumultuous period of his life that led him down a path of uncertainty andeventually run-ins with the criminal justice system. His time on the run tookhim to Houston, Texas, where he earned an associate’s degree in computerscience before being apprehended by authorities.

Bobby’s real transformation began during his 16 years of incarceration inPennsylvania State Penitentiary, where he embraced education andself-improvement. He became fluent in three languages—Arabic, Spanish, andAmerican Sign Language—while also delving deeply into sociology, psychology,and business. He became a Master Barber Instructor, earned his CommercialDriver’s License, read over 1,000 books, and even authored a book on emotionrecognition for children. It was during this time that Bobby began preparingfor his future by developing business plans, including one for a Tri-axletrucking company.

Upon his release in 2019, Bobby founded B&B Hauling andTransporting LLC, a successful trucking company that now servesas a cornerstone for his mission to rebuild his community. As the owner andoperator, Bobby uses his business as a platform for creating opportunities andserving as a role model for others who, like him, once felt trapped in a cycleof despair.

Currently, Bobby serves as a Reentry Coach/DigitalNavigator with Reimagine Reentry,where he helps individuals transition from incarceration into society,providing mentorship and guidance to navigate their new lives. His goal is toshow others that the way you start a journey doesn’t determine how it ends,what matters is how you finish. As he passionately states, "I need my DASHto have meant something once I’m gone," referring to the dash between theyear of birth and death, symbolizing the importance of leaving a lasting,positive impact.

Bobby’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance, education, andsecond chances, and he remains a dedicated leader, committed to making adifference in his community and beyond.

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I grew up in the Hill District and started my career when I was 14 working at Ozanam Culture Center (now the Grayson Center). I always had a passion of working with kids and the community. I previously worked with One Vision One Life and now am working with CommUnity Peace at Reimagine Reentry as a Violence Prevention Coach visiting victims of violence and helping them to get set up with services. I hope to help end the cycle of violence.

I was born and raised in St. Louis Missouri. After graduating from high school, I enlisted in the United States Air Force. I had the pleasure of following in my fathers’ footsteps, who also served. After ten years of service, I spent the next ten years in management positions with different organizations. The opportunity was presented to me to work in a support function with Fathers when I joined Allegheny Family Network. It allowed me the opportunity to take my own learned experiences as a father to support and educate other fathers. I’ve spent the last five years working in several hospitals here in the Pittsburgh area. I believe in networking and sharing resources. I am passionate about the opportunities to give back and provide support and education in our communities.

Born and Raised In The Homewood Brushton Community. At A Early Age I Had An Entrepreneur Spirit, I Always Wanted Better For Others Before Myself. A Westinghouse Class Of 91 Graduate, I Enlisted In The United States Marine Corps. After My Honorable Discharge in 1995 I Became A Successful Manager of Sneaker Villa In East Liberty Where I Interacted With Community Members, Students, Activists, and Leaders To Facilitate A Successful Business and Following. I Enjoy Challenges Especially When It Comes To Changing A Person’s Life. I Became A Behavior Specialist For 8yrs At Pyramid Healthcare and 2yrs At Gaudenzia Healthcare on Centre Avenue. I Chose To Leave My Position As A Physical Education Teacher/ Fitness Instructor At Propel Pitcairn To Do Something More Within Our Surrounding Communities. Life is Truly What You Make It, See The Opportunity, Embrace The Opportunity, Pay The Opportunity Forward…

Hello! My name is Akira and I am a licensed associate professional counselor. I received my BS in Psychology from the University of Pittsburgh in 2020 and my MS in Counseling Psychology from Robert Morris University in 2024. I worked as an intern throughout my master’s program in a private practice setting providing outpatient care to teenage and adult individuals struggling with ADHD, anxiety, depression, and adjustment disorder. I also work with Reimagine Reentry as a therapist dedicated to helping individuals recently released from local, state, and federal jails/prisons get re-adjusted to life after incarceration.

I take an integrative approach to therapy bringing a humanistic framework to third-wave cognitive behavioral therapies meaning I will meet you where you are at in your journey and equip you with the lens of acceptance, change, and mindfulness. I work in collaboration with my clients, so that we are working together as a team towards their treatment goals. I believe in giving grace and space for individuals to be vulnerable and have difficult emotions, and in celebrating an individual’s personal strengths and successes. Advocacy, multiculturalism, and social justice influence my counseling framework as well as my career goals.

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I am a Pittsburgh native, I began my career in the 1990’s as a Youth Care Worker at Shuman Juvenile Detention Center during the beginning and height of the gang epidemic in the City of Pittsburgh. Since then I have worked in multiple capacities as a Behavioral Therapist, Domestic Violence Educator, Mental Health Professional, Counselor/Associate Professor at Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC), Psychotherapist and Sole Proprietor of Devin L. Patterson Mental Health Services.

My background created an understanding and passion to provide non-judgmental mental health services to individuals and communities who have been marginalized and have a bad perception of mental health services and the mental health profession.