Meet the Team

Alma began her career as an intern at Option House, Inc., where she served as a domestic violence advocate in San Bernardino County. Through her dedication, compassion, and leadership, she has grown within the organization and now serves as the Interim Shelter Director, overseeing shelter operations and supporting survivors on their path to safety and stability.

She holds an Associate of Arts in Human Services and Behavioral Science from San Bernardino Valley College and a Bachelor's degree in Human Services from Simmons University. Alma is currently pursuing her Master's degree in Social Work, further strengthening her expertise in trauma-informed care and advocacy.

Alma is deeply committed to empowering survivors and walking alongside them on their journey toward healing and independence. Her leadership is rooted in empathy, lived experience, and a strong belief in creating safe, supportive environments. She is passionate about being a voice for the silenced and works tirelessly to promote dignity, safety, and hope within her community.

Alma comenzó su carrera como pasante en Option House, Inc., donde se desempeñó como defensora de víctimas de violencia doméstica en el condado de San Bernardino. A través de su dedicación, compasión y liderazgo, ha crecido dentro de la organización y actualmente se desempeña como Directora Interina del Refugio, donde supervisa las operaciones del albergue y apoya a los sobrevivientes en su camino hacia la seguridad y la estabilidad.

Cuenta con un título de Asociada en Servicios Humanos y Ciencias del Comportamiento de San Bernardino Valley College y una licenciatura en Servicios Humanos de Simmons University. Actualmente cursa su maestría en Trabajo Social, fortaleciendo sus conocimientos en atención informada por el trauma y en defensa de las víctimas.

Alma está profundamente comprometida con el empoderamiento de los sobrevivientes y con acompañarlos en su proceso hacia la sanación y la independencia. Su liderazgo se basa en la empatía, la experiencia vivida y una firme convicción de crear entornos seguros y de apoyo. Le apasiona ser la voz de quienes han sido silenciados y trabaja incansablemente para promover la dignidad, la seguridad y la esperanza en su comunidad.

LaTeara Barnes serves as Prevention and Outreach Supervisor at Option House Inc., where she leads comprehensive programs aimed at preventing teen relationship abuse and empowering youth. She oversees trainings, community outreach initiatives, and the coordination of volunteers and interns, ensuring programs are both effective and accessible.

In addition to program management, LaTeara actively contributes to community-wide efforts as a member of the Child Abuse Awareness Committee, Women’s Awareness Subcommittee, and Community Policy Advisory Committee, driving policy development, advocacy, and public awareness initiatives.

With a Master’s in Public Administration with a concentration in Nonprofit Leadership, LaTeara brings over 15 years of experience in nonprofit service, including 10 years in domestic violence and human trafficking prevention and 7 years in youth empowerment, applying her expertise to create safer, more resilient communities.

Erica Green

Prevention & Outreach Specialist

Vacant

Prevention & Outreach Assistant

Christina has been employed with Option House for over 6 years in various positions at the Agency. She started as an Intern at Option House Inc while pursuing my degree in Social Work. Christina enjoys working with people and educating people about Domestic Violence. 

Christina ha sido empleada de Option House durante más de 6 años en varios puestos en la Agencia. Comenzó como pasante en Option House Inc mientras cursaba mi licenciatura en Trabajo Social. A Christina le gusta trabajar con la gente y educar a la gente sobre la violencia doméstica. 

 Anais began her career as an intern at Option House, where she developed a strong foundation in advocacy, client support, and community services. As a certified Domestic Violence Advocate and legal advocate, she is dedicated to empowering individuals and families by providing guidance, resources, and compassionate support during difficult times.

Currently pursuing an Associate degree in Human Services and Social Work at San Bernardino Valley College, Anais is committed to expanding her knowledge and skills to better serve her community. Her passion for advocacy, social justice, and helping others drives her continued professional and academic growth, with a focus on creating positive outcomes for those in need.

Anais comenzó su carrera como pasante en Option House, donde desarrolló una base sólida en defensa de derechos, apoyo a clientes y servicios comunitarios. Como defensora certificada de víctimas de violencia doméstica y defensora legal, se dedica a empoderar a individuos y familias ofreciendo orientación, recursos y apoyo compasivo en momentos difíciles.

Actualmente, Anais está cursando un grado asociado en Servicios Humanos y Trabajo Social en San Bernardino Valley College, y está comprometida a ampliar sus conocimientos y habilidades para servir mejor a su comunidad. Su pasión por la defensa de derechos, la justicia social y ayudar a los demás impulsa su crecimiento profesional y académico continuo, con un enfoque en crear resultados positivos para quienes más lo necesitan.

Vanessa began her journey at Option House Inc. as an intern and has since served as a Case Manager and Certified Domestic Violence Advocate. She is currently pursuing her Associate’s Degree in Human Services at San Bernardino Valley College, with plans to graduate this fall, and holds a Certificate in Case Management in the Public Sector. Now working as a Legal Advocate, Vanessa is dedicated to providing guidance, advocacy, and support to individuals seeking safety and justice. She is passionate about empowering others and contributing to a safer, more resilient community.

Vanessa comenzó en Option House Inc. como pasante y ha trabajado como Administradora de Casos y Defensora Certificada de Violencia Doméstica. Actualmente cursa su título de Asociada en Servicios Humanos en San Bernardino Valley College, con planes de graduarse este otoño, y cuenta con un Certificado en Gestión de Casos en el Sector Público. Ahora, como Defensora Legal, está comprometida a brindar orientación, defensa y apoyo a personas que buscan seguridad y justicia. Le apasiona empoderar a otros y contribuir a una comunidad más segura y resiliente.