Meet the Team

Kauai, at just 4 years old, is our dedicated Junior Outreach Counselor at Families United. Since day one, he has been a constant presence at every outreach event, community engagement, fundraiser, toy drive, and health fair. His enthusiasm and commitment to helping others make him an inspiring part of our team, embodying the spirit of community support from such a young age.

Tujan Dalia is the Director of Communications and Marketing at Families United. Born in Palestine, Tujan is bilingual, fluent in both Arabic and English, which enables her to connect with diverse communities effectively. She graduated from California State University, East Bay, with a degree in Marketing, equipping her with a solid foundation in strategic communication and brand development. With a passion for advocacy and community engagement, Tujan leverages her skills to amplify Families United's mission and reach. Her experience in marketing and communication allows her to craft compelling narratives that resonate with families and stakeholders alike. Tujan is dedicated to enhancing access to resources and services for individuals with developmental disabilities, ensuring that every voice is heard and valued within the community.

Cynthia Alonso brings over 40 years of experience working with the disabled community to Families United. With a background as a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor and extensive experience in the mental health field, Cynthia is dedicated to creating meaningful connections and fostering support for individuals with disabilities. Bilingual in Spanish, she has made a significant impact by creating a bridge for service access to Spanish-speaking and bi-racial families, effectively removing language barriers and ensuring equitable support. Cynthia's passion for advocacy, coupled with her ability to connect with diverse communities, makes her an invaluable asset to our organization and initiatives, helping us expand our reach and strengthen our community impact.

Windy Khan is a dedicated advocate and board member of Families United, passionately supporting children with special needs, including her own family members. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology and Business and a Master's in Business Administration from Cal State East Bay. Windy has a wealth of experience in management roles within residential care homes and day programs, where she has consistently demonstrated her commitment to improving the quality of care for individuals with developmental disabilities. Her career also includes working as a Legal Assistant for the Office of Chief Counsel at the Department of Energy and as a Medical Staff Coordinator and Case Manager at American Medical Forensic Specialists. Windy's diverse background in both legal and medical fields, combined with her advocacy and management experience, brings a unique perspective to her role at Families United. Her passion for helping families navigate the complexities of care and her commitment to service make her an invaluable asset to our mission of providing support and resources to the community.

Damian Dorn brings over 11 years of dedicated experience in the field of developmental disabilities, with a background that spans adult day programs, residential care homes, and independent living programs. His expertise lies in working with individuals who have severe behavioral challenges, where his compassionate approach has made a significant impact on the lives of those he serves.For the past two years, Damian has been an essential part of Families United, where he has played a key role in coordinating outreach events and engaging with thousands of individuals at various community events. His natural ability to connect with people, particularly in marginalized communities, has helped build trust and strengthen the organization's presence in these areas.Damian is also a certified CPR and First Aid Instructor with the American Heart Association, providing invaluable community service and contributing to Families United's education and training initiatives. His dedication to supporting underserved communities and his ability to foster strong relationships make him a true asset to Families United as we continue to uplift and empower those we serve.

Dr. James Vaughn, a native of San Francisco, brings over 27 years of experience in education, with a focus on special education. He is passionate about working with students and supporting teachers, aiming to help everyone reach their highest potential. Dr. Vaughn is thrilled to be returning to the San Lorenzo Unified School District, where he will be joining a highly talented and experienced Special Services Team.Throughout his career, Dr. Vaughn has served in various roles, including Principal and Special Day Class Teacher, where he made significant contributions to the educational community. Most recently, he earned his doctorate degree in Organizational Leadership from UMASS Global University. Dr. Vaughn looks forward to serving the staff, students, and parents of the San Lorenzo School District – Special Services Department during the 2024–2025 school year.Dr. Vaughn is a transformational leader known for his kindness, emotional intelligence, and dedication to making a positive impact in the field of education. He is committed to fostering an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students, guiding them on their path to success. Dr. Vaughn brings a wealth of expertise as our IEP specialist with a deep understanding of special educational programs, 504 plans, and academica support available to students. His dedication lies in attending IEP meetings, advocating for families, and ensuring that every student receives that tailored services and supports they deserve.

Dr. Melvin Newton is a distinguished leader in public health, social advocacy, and education, with a lifetime commitment to advancing equity and access for marginalized communities. As the co-founder of the African American Studies Department at Merritt College in Oakland, Dr. Newton has played a pivotal role in shaping educational opportunities that emphasize cultural awareness and social justice. Dr. Newton's legacy is also deeply intertwined with the fight for civil rights, as he is the brother of Huey P. Newton, the founder of the Black Panther Party. This connection underscores his lifelong dedication to social justice, community empowerment, and advocacy for African American communities. With over 30 years of experience as a social worker, Dr. Newton has dedicated his career to helping individuals with disabilities navigate complex support systems, ensuring they receive the care and resources they need to lead fulfilling lives. His personal experience as a parent of a daughter with a developmental disability drives his passion for advocacy and his deep understanding of the challenges faced by families in similar circumstances. Beyond his work in social services, Dr. Newton also served as a sociology professor at Merritt College, where he inspired countless students to engage with critical issues of inequality and community empowerment. His influence as an educator has made a lasting impact in both academic and community circles. As a board member of Families United, Dr. Newton brings his rich background in social work, academia, and grassroots activism to our mission. His expertise in developing culturally competent programs and his dedication to eliminating disparities in service delivery are crucial to our efforts to empower underserved families, particularly those from marginalized communities. Dr. Newton's leadership and vision continue to guide our initiatives, fostering strong community partnerships and driving meaningful, lasting change in the lives of those we serve.

Jennie Ngo is a dedicated advocate and leader in the field of developmental disabilities, with over a decade of experience in training and management within Independent Living Services (ILS) and Supported Living Services (SLS) agencies. A graduate of the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), Jennie holds a degree in Psychology, which has been the foundation of her work in supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. Fluent in both English and Vietnamese, Jennie is passionate about breaking down language barriers to ensure that individuals from diverse backgrounds receive the support and services they need. Her bilingual skills enable her to connect with and advocate for Vietnamese-speaking and bi-racial communities, making services more accessible and culturally responsive. Throughout her career, Jennie has been committed to empowering individuals with developmental disabilities by helping them build the skills they need to live independently and thrive in their communities. Her expertise in designing and implementing personalized support plans has made a significant impact on countless lives, enabling individuals to reach their full potential. Jennie’s deep understanding of the challenges faced by those with developmental disabilities, combined with her passion for advocacy, drives her to create more inclusive environments. Her experience in managing teams and training staff within ILS and SLS programs has equipped her with the skills to develop effective strategies that promote self-sufficiency and enhance quality of life for the people she serves. As a board member of Families United, Jennie brings her wealth of knowledge in person-centered planning, community-based services, and innovative support models to our mission. Her leadership and dedication play a vital role in guiding our efforts to provide high-quality services, expand outreach, and build partnerships that advance our goal of equitable access for all individuals and families in need.

Assata Olugbala, originally from New Orleans, Louisiana is a prominent advocate in the City of Oakland, tirelessly advocating for children with special needs. With a background in special education, she actively supports schools and families, notably in 2023, she was very supportive of families during the Oakland school closures. Known for speaking truth to power, Miss Olugbala is deeply passionate about equity and inclusion and has provided hands-on support to families within Families United since our inception.

Hayley Garr is a dedicated behavior analyst with a passion for serving individuals with disabilities that began in high school when she found immense joy working with people with special needs. She actively participated in inclusive summer camps for children and adults, which sparked her lifelong commitment to the field of special education. Hayley pursued her bachelor's degree in Behavioral Science while working as a para-professional in schools and as a behavior therapist. Falling in love with the field of special education, she went on to earn her master’s degree and teaching credential in Moderate/Severe Special Education. Hayley has over seven years of teaching experience, providing lessons and training to students in grades 4-6 with disabilities, focusing on academics, community, vocational, leisure, domestic, and social skills. While teaching, Hayley continued her education and became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA). She worked with various ABA companies providing services through private insurance and regional centers, and then transitioned to consulting for group homes. Over the past six years, Hayley has successfully grown her consulting business, Apex Behavior Consulting, which serves a diverse population with a special focus on Enhanced Behavior Support Homes (EBSH). Her extensive experience includes working as a Clinical Director and Program Director for autism centers, as well as serving as an SDC (Special Day Class) and RSP (Resource Specialist Program) teacher for both San Francisco Unified School District and Spectrum Center. Hayley’s commitment to individualized education and behavior strategies is evident in her work, where she implements curriculums and behavioral strategies tailored to each student's Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and Positive Behavior Intervention Plan (PBIP). Hayley is passionate about empowering individuals with developmental disabilities to reach their highest potential, both in educational settings and in the community. Her background in teaching, behavior analysis, and consulting, combined with her compassion and dedication, makes her an invaluable asset to Families United.

Dr. Rollington Ferguson is a highly respected cardiologist with a private practice based in Oakland, California, and is also affiliated with Alta Bates Summit Medical Center. Specializing in cardiovascular disease and adult congenital heart conditions, Dr. Ferguson has devoted his career to delivering exceptional care to all his patients, with a particular focus on individuals with developmental disabilities.With over 20 years of experience in clinical practice, Dr. Ferguson has a reputation for his compassionate, patient-centered approach. He has been at the forefront of advocating for equitable healthcare access, ensuring that even the most vulnerable populations receive the quality care they deserve. His dedication to reducing health disparities and improving outcomes in underserved communities has been a cornerstone of his work.Dr. Ferguson has also played a significant role in medical education, mentoring the next generation of cardiologists and healthcare professionals. His leadership extends beyond his practice, as he continually works to integrate preventative care and early intervention strategies into his treatment plans to improve long-term heart health.As a board member of Families United, Dr. Ferguson's expertise and commitment to supporting individuals with developmental disabilities are invaluable. His involvement in Families United aligns with his lifelong mission to empower communities by providing comprehensive support, advocacy, and access to essential health and educational resources. His extensive knowledge and specialized care for those with developmental disabilities bring a unique perspective that enhances Families United's impact on the community.

Maria Ramirez is a co-founder of Families United, driven by her lived experience as a parent to a bi-racial daughter with Down syndrome. With a vision to improve Regional Center service access and equity for marginalized and underserved families, Maria has been a guiding force in shaping the mission of Families United. She holds a Master of Science in Educational Counseling from Cal State East Bay and a Bachelor of Science in Chicano Studies with a minor in Drama.With over 40 years of experience as a family advocate and activist, Maria is deeply engaged in her community. She actively participates in racial equity committees, the Puerto Rican Club in Union City, and volunteers at various cultural events around the Bay Area. A gifted performer, Maria has traveled the world sharing the powerful stories of Chicana Herstory, using her voice to celebrate cultural heritage and empower others.Maria’s extensive experience, combined with her commitment to advocacy, community engagement, and cultural representation, makes her a vital leader in the fight for equity and inclusion in developmental services. Her passion for creating a brighter future for underserved families lies at the core of everything Families United stands for.

Dominique Mellion is the visionary Executive Director of Families United, with over 20 years of experience specializing in developmental disabilities. As a Licensed Nurse, Dominique has dedicated her career to creating pathways for underserved communities, focusing on advocacy, education, and access to services. Her innovative approach and unwavering commitment have made a significant impact in the lives of countless families. Dominique's exceptional work has earned her recognition, including her induction into the 2024 Alameda County Women's Hall of Fame for her groundbreaking educational initiatives. She also received a Special Congressional Recognition from Congressman Eric Swalwell for her tireless efforts in advocating for his constituents, helping them navigate complex systems to gain access to essential services. As an approved instructor for the California Department of Social Services, Dominique provides continuing education for staff working with individuals with developmental disabilities. She is also a CPR and First Aid instructor with the American Heart Association and a certified Master Level Instructor with the Crisis Prevention Institute for over 15 years, where she teaches courses including Autism Spectrum Disorders. Under Dominique’s leadership, Families United has grown into the sole minority-owned nonprofit resource and service center in Northern California, known for its deep ties to the community, from local, state, and federal leaders to the most marginalized neighborhoods. Her grassroots approach, coupled with her innovative vision, drives the organization's mission to uplift communities of color while providing comprehensive services to all individuals in need. Dominique’s commitment to excellence, her collaborative spirit, and her dedication to creating equitable opportunities for all have made her a true leader in the field of developmental disabilities. She continues to inspire change and transform lives through her work at Families United, leading with compassion and integrity every step of the way.