Staff

Mr. Bryan Jones, BBA

Title: Founder & Board Member (Non-Operational Role)
Email: jones@newlifefacility.com
Phone: 760-981-7449

Biography

Mr. Jones is the Founder and a current Board Member of New Life Facility, Inc., serving in a non-operational, volunteer capacity to support the organization’s governance, ethics, and strategic vision.
With over 12 years of experience in addiction recovery, anger management, and crisis response, Mr. Jones has built a reputation for fostering community-based approaches to behavioral health and restorative practices.

He began his career working with individuals on probation and parole, dedicating himself to helping clients navigate challenges of personal growth, emotional regulation, and substance-use recovery.
His commitment to ethical intervention continues through his service as an AOD Specialist with the San Bernardino Community Crisis Response Team, where he provides crisis intervention and critical support for individuals in distress.

Professional Instruction & Credentials

Outside of his governance role with New Life Facility, Mr. Jones is a Certified Crisis Intervention Specialist Instructor (CCIS-III) with Growth Central Training, where he teaches national certification courses in Crisis Intervention, Domestic Violence, and Anger Management. He is passionate about the practical application of de-escalation, safety, and trauma-informed techniques in both clinical and community settings.

Mr. Jones is also recognized for his expertise in the ethical integration of technology and artificial intelligence in telehealth, presenting at major conferences such as:

39th Annual Children's Network Conference – “Raising Resilient Youth in an AI World: Empowering Parents With Tools for Digital Literacy and Ethical Boundaries”

CCAPP 10th Annual California Addiction Conference – “The Ethical Use of Artificial Intelligence in Substance Abuse Recovery Treatment”

CCAPP 11th Annual California Addiction Conference – “The Ethical Use of Artificial Intelligence in Reaching Marginalized and Rural Populations through Telehealth”

CCAPP 12th Annual California Addiction Conference – “Integrating AI Ethically Under Laura's Law”

ACA Professional Practice Summit – “Reaching Marginalized and Rural Populations Through Ethical Use of AI in Telehealth”

ATSA Research and Treatment Conference – “Transparency in Treatment: A Case Study of High-Risk Client Work”

Certifications and Credentials

SAP • CADC-II • CADC-CS (CA) • BIPF • CAMS-III • CDVS-III • CPTS-II • CPI • CCIS-III • CCIS Instructor (EDGE System) • CSRF • CAMS (Collaborative Assessment & Management of Suicidality) • MATS • DIP • GCEL-1

Professional Associations

Board of Directors, High Desert Child, Adolescent & Family Services Center, Inc.
Treasurer, California Association of Anger Management Providers (CAAMP)
Professional Development Coordinator, International Association of Addictions & Offender Counselors
Director, California Association for Artificial Intelligence
Member: NAMA, CCAPP, ACA, NAADAC, CALPCC

Community and Teaching Philosophy

Mr. Jones’s teaching and leadership style are described as engaging, empathetic, and grounded in empowerment. He emphasizes active listening, accountability, and trauma-informed practice—helping individuals and professionals alike to develop emotional awareness, compassion, and practical resilience.

Based in Apple Valley, CA, he continues to serve the community as an advocate for equitable access to behavioral health education and restorative justice programs.

Disclaimer

Mr. Jones serves on the Board of Directors of New Life Facility, Inc. in a non-operational, volunteer capacity. His nonprofit service is entirely independent of his County employment and complies with all applicable ethics and conflict-of-interest guidelines.

Name: Laura Sharp, CAMSI, CCISII, BIPF

Title: Program Manager

Description:
Laura Sharp is the backbone of New Life Facility, ensuring its daily operations run smoothly and efficiently. With over a decade of experience in county medical offices as both a medical assistant and front office professional, she brings a wealth of administrative expertise, organizational precision, and a deep commitment to client service. Her ability to balance structure with compassion makes her an essential pillar of the facility, keeping everything on track while providing unwavering support to both staff and participants.

In her role as Program Manager, Laura oversees critical aspects of the facility’s operations, from managing client communications and coordinating schedules to handling payments and ensuring compliance with administrative protocols. She is the first point of contact for many, offering guidance, assistance, and a reassuring presence to those seeking support. Whether answering phones, resolving logistical challenges, or streamlining workflows, Laura’s attention to detail and problem-solving skills keep the facility running at its highest standard.

In addition to her core responsibilities, Laura serves as a Training Monitor for credentialing with Growth Central Training, where she upholds the highest standards of integrity and compliance in the issuance of professional credentials. Her oversight ensures that all training processes meet regulatory requirements and ethical benchmarks, further strengthening New Life Facility’s commitment to excellence in education and professional development.

Beyond her administrative duties, Laura is a trusted advocate for participants, ensuring they feel heard, supported, and empowered on their journey toward personal and professional growth. She embodies the mission of New Life Facility by fostering an environment of efficiency, organization, and care, ensuring that every individual who walks through the doors receives the assistance they need.

Her ability to anticipate challenges, implement solutions, and maintain a seamless operational flow is what makes her an irreplaceable force within the organization. More than just a manager, Laura is the heartbeat of New Life Facility, dedicating her time and expertise to maintaining the structure and stability that allows the entire program to thrive.

email: admin@newlifefacility.com

Phone: 760-713-3720

Name: Kareem Starkes, RADT I
Title: Director of Reentry Engagement & Violence Prevention

Description:
Kareem is a seasoned reentry and rehabilitation professional with over two decades of lived experience navigating the justice system. He brings a uniquely impactful perspective to his role as Director of Reentry Engagement & Violence Prevention for New Life Facility’s Community Empowerment and Violence Reduction Initiative (CEVRI).

Having served 25 years of incarceration, Kareem emerged as a transformative leader, developing and facilitating evidence-based programs including “Goal Keepers,” “TAKE FLIGHT,” and the “Concentric Circle” parole hearing preparation support group. His initiatives have empowered hundreds of justice-involved individuals to break cycles of violence, addiction, and recidivism.

Kareem is a certified SMART Recovery Inside Out facilitator and trainer, as well as a CDCR YOP Mentor and trainer, having led high-impact recovery and mentorship programs across California’s prison system. He currently serves as the Prison Coordinator for the Ten Toes In Nonprofit Organization and is a registered Alcohol and Drug Technician (RADT I) through CCAPP, actively pursuing his SUD Counselor certification.

In his daily role outside New Life Facility, Kareem oversees the facilitation of the Home After Harm program at CSP–Los Angeles County, guiding returning citizens through trauma-informed reentry pathways that reduce violence and promote long-term stability. His leadership ensures that New Life Facilities CEVRI’s street outreach and reentry services are credible, compassionate, and grounded in the lived realities of those most at risk.

Certification:
Registered Alcohol and Drug Technician I (RADT I)
SMART Recovery Inside Out Facilitator & Trainer
CDCR Youth Offender Program Mentor & Trainer

Waylon Kreneck, BIPF, CAMS-II, CADC-I

Title: Operations Manager – Needles Branch | Public Outreach & Program Coordinator, Education & Counseling program - Steward of  Education & Counseling Program

Email: Kreneck@newlifefacility.com

Description:
Waylon Kreneck serves as the Operations Manager for the Needles, California branch of New Life Facility, where he oversees outreach, coordination, and program operations. With more than five years of experience in addiction recovery services, Waylon acts as a bridge between agencies, participants, and community partners to ensure effective communication and a seamless network of care.

Dedicated to reducing barriers in rural and marginalized communities, Waylon works to expand access to recovery, rehabilitation, and personal growth services throughout the Needles region. His leadership emphasizes collaboration, equity, and sustainability—helping individuals build the tools needed to thrive beyond adversity.

In addition to his operational and outreach responsibilities, Waylon actively supports New Life Facility’s conference presentations and community engagements alongside Founder Bryan Jones. In this role, he helps ensure that emerging needs within the community are identified and addressed through coordinated outreach, effectively bridging the gap between Bryan Jones’ strategic vision and the facility’s on-the-ground operations. This collaboration reflects New Life Facility’s commitment to aligning leadership vision with local action.

Waylon remains most fulfilled when working directly with clients as an instructor in Anger Management, Parenting, and Domestic Violence programs, where he applies evidence-based approaches to promote emotional regulation, accountability, and personal growth.

Certifications

Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor I (CADC I), Batterer's Intervention Program Facilitator (BIPF), Certified Anger Management Specialist-II (CAMS-II), Certified SMART Recovery Facilitator (CSRF), Certified Training Specialist Intern, (CPTS-II (Intern))

Waylon’s work embodies the heart of New Life Facility’s mission: Connecting people, programs, and purpose to create meaningful, lasting change within every community he serves.

John Aguilar 

Title: Spanish-Speaking Program Intern | Substance Abuse, Batterer’s Intervention & Anger Management
Additional Role: Steward of Earned Income & Events Program
Email: Admin@newlifefacility.com

Título: Interno de Programas Bilingüe (Habla Español) | Abuso de Sustancias, Intervención para Violencia Doméstica y Manejo de la Ira
Rol Adicional: Encargado del Programa de Ingresos Generados y Eventos
Correo: Admin@newlifefacility.com

Description:
John Aguilar serves New Life Facility in a dual capacity, supporting both direct service programming and organizational sustainability initiatives. As a Spanish-speaking Program Intern and Steward of Earned Income & Events, John contributes to client services while also helping maintain the operational strength of New Life Facility’s community-based programs.

As a Program Intern, John is currently completing supervised training and internship hours in Substance Use Services, Batterer’s Intervention, Anger Management, and Parenting programming. Under direct professional supervision, he assists with facilitation of groups using approved, evidence-based curriculum and structured lesson plans. All services are delivered in accordance with program guidelines, ethical standards, and supervisory oversight.

As a Spanish-speaking team member, John helps support language access for participants who prefer services in Spanish, assisting with communication, engagement, and program participation when appropriate and under supervision. He supports group facilitation, participant engagement, and skill-building activities focused on emotional regulation, accountability, relapse prevention, healthy communication, and behavior change. He also assists with program documentation, attendance coordination, and maintaining structured, respectful group environments. His internship is designed to build competency in structured intervention services, group facilitation, and client support within a supervised professional setting.

In addition to his clinical internship role, John serves as Steward of Earned Income & Events Program, where he plays a key role in overseeing New Life Facility’s event operations and the day-to-day functioning of the New Life Thrift Store. In this capacity, John helps ensure both areas operate consistently, professionally, and in alignment with the organization’s mission.

From coordinating community events and managing inventory to maintaining clear operating hours and supporting financial accountability, John helps create structure and sustainability within these public-facing programs. His leadership supports dependable staffing, transparent processes, and organized operations, allowing earned income efforts to generate reliable funding that directly supports community services. Through thoughtful oversight and steady management, he helps ensure that both events and the thrift store remain strong, mission-driven pillars of support for New Life Facility.

Descripción:
John Aguilar presta servicios en New Life Facility en una doble función, apoyando tanto los programas de atención directa como las iniciativas de sostenibilidad organizacional. Como interno de programas de habla hispana y encargado del programa de ingresos generados y eventos, John contribuye a los servicios para participantes mientras fortalece las operaciones comunitarias de la organización.

Como Interno de Programas, John se encuentra completando horas de capacitación e internado supervisado en servicios de abuso de sustancias, programas de intervención para violencia doméstica (Batterer’s Intervention), manejo de la ira y crianza positiva. Bajo supervisión profesional directa, apoya la facilitación de grupos utilizando planes de estudio estructurados, aprobados y basados en evidencia. Todos los servicios se brindan conforme a las normas del programa, estándares éticos y supervisión establecida.

Como miembro del equipo que habla español, John también apoya el acceso lingüístico para participantes que prefieren recibir servicios en su idioma principal, facilitando la comunicación, la participación y el entendimiento del programa cuando es apropiado y bajo supervisión. Apoya la facilitación de grupos, la participación de los asistentes y actividades de desarrollo de habilidades enfocadas en regulación emocional, responsabilidad personal, prevención de recaídas, comunicación saludable y cambio de conducta. También colabora con la documentación del programa, control de asistencia y mantenimiento de entornos grupales estructurados y respetuosos.

Además de su rol clínico en formación, John se desempeña como Encargado del Programa de Ingresos Generados y Eventos, donde supervisa las operaciones de eventos comunitarios y el funcionamiento diario de la tienda New Life Thrift Store. En esta función, ayuda a garantizar que ambas áreas operen de manera consistente, profesional y alineada con la misión de la organización.

Desde la coordinación de eventos comunitarios y manejo de inventario hasta el mantenimiento de horarios claros de operación y responsabilidad financiera, John contribuye a crear estructura y sostenibilidad dentro de estos programas abiertos al público. Su liderazgo promueve personal confiable, procesos transparentes y operaciones organizadas, permitiendo que los esfuerzos de ingresos generados apoyen de manera constante los servicios comunitarios. A través de una supervisión responsable y una gestión constante, ayuda a asegurar que tanto los eventos como la tienda continúen siendo pilares sólidos y alineados con la misión de New Life Facility.

Certifications & Status:
Substance Abuse Services Intern (Supervised)
Batterer’s Intervention Program Facilitator (Supervised Trainee)
Anger Management Facilitator (In Training)
Parenting Program Facilitator (Supervised Intern)
Earned Income & Events Program Steward
Spanish-Speaking Client Support (Program Intern Status)

John’s work reflects New Life Facility’s mission: strengthening individuals, families, and communities through structured intervention, practical skill development, and responsible program stewardship. By supporting both direct service programming and sustainable funding efforts, he contributes to a comprehensive model of accountability, growth, and long-term stability.

Certificaciones y Estatus:
Interno en Servicios de Abuso de Sustancias (Supervisado)
Facilitador del Programa de Intervención para Violencia Doméstica (Aprendiz Supervisado)
Facilitador de Manejo de la Ira (En Capacitación)
Facilitador de Programa de Crianza Positiva (Interno Supervisado)
Encargado del Programa de Ingresos Generados y Eventos
Apoyo a Participantes de Habla Hispana (Estatus de Interno)

El trabajo de John refleja la misión de New Life Facility: fortalecer a individuos, familias y comunidades mediante intervención estructurada, desarrollo de habilidades prácticas y administración responsable de programas. Al apoyar tanto los servicios directos como los esfuerzos de sostenibilidad financiera, contribuye a un modelo integral de responsabilidad, crecimiento y estabilidad a largo plazo.

Erika Marquez, 

Title: Bilingual Program Intern | Spanish-Speaking Life Skills Counselor 

Email: Admin@newlifefacility.com

Description:
Erika Marquez is a Bilingual Program Intern and Life Skills Counselor at New Life Facility. She has over five years of experience in substance use services, mental health support, and administrative operations.

Erika provides services under direct professional supervision while completing required internship and training hours. In this role, she assists with facilitation of Anger Management, Parenting, and Batterer’s Intervention Programs using approved, evidence-based curriculum. All services are delivered within program guidelines and supervisory oversight.

In addition to group support, Erika provides Life Skills and Career Development counseling for Spanish-speaking clients, including resume preparation, job search assistance, and employment readiness. She also supports program documentation and administrative coordination.

Erika’s role supports language access and program compliance by ensuring Spanish-speaking participants receive services in their primary language in accordance with New Life Facility standards.

Certifications & Status:
Batterer’s Intervention Program Facilitator (Supervised Trainee), Anger Management Facilitator (Bilingual, In Training), Parenting Program Facilitator, (Supervised Intern), Life Skills & Career Development Counselor, Administrative Operations Specialist.

Descripción:

Erika Marquez es Interna de Programas Bilingües y Consejera de Habilidades para la Vida en New Life Facility. Cuenta con más de cinco años de experiencia en servicios de abuso de sustancias, apoyo en salud mental y operaciones administrativas.

Erika brinda servicios bajo supervisión profesional directa mientras completa sus horas requeridas de práctica e internado. En este rol, apoya la facilitación de los programas de Manejo de la Ira, Crianza Positiva e Intervención para Violencia Doméstica, utilizando planes de estudio aprobados y basados en evidencia. Todos los servicios se proporcionan conforme a las normas del programa y supervisión establecida.

Además, Erika ofrece consejería en habilidades para la vida y desarrollo laboral para clientes de habla hispana, incluyendo elaboración de currículum, apoyo en búsqueda de empleo y preparación laboral. También colabora en tareas administrativas y documentación del programa.

Su función contribuye al acceso lingüístico y al cumplimiento del programa, garantizando que los participantes reciban servicios en su idioma principal conforme a los estándares de New Life Facility.

Certificaciones y Estatus

Facilitadora del Programa de Intervención para Violencia Doméstica (Aprendiz Supervisada), Facilitadora Bilingüe de Manejo de la Ira (En Capacitación),  Facilitadora de Crianza Positiva (Interna Supervisada), Consejera de Habilidades para la Vida y Desarrollo Profesional, Especialista en Operaciones Administrativas

Erika’s work reflects New Life Facility’s mission: by expanding access to services through language support, structured programs, and practical guidance—helping Spanish-speaking participants engage meaningfully in accountability, growth, and stability.

El trabajo de Erika refleja la misión de New Life Facility: al ampliar el acceso a los servicios mediante apoyo lingüístico, programas estructurados y orientación práctica, ayudando a los participantes de habla hispana a involucrarse de manera significativa en procesos de responsabilidad, crecimiento y estabilidad.

Mrs. Yvette Hammer, CADC-CAS

Title: Legacy Advisor & Board Emeritus
Email: admin@newlifefacility.com
Phone: 760-713-3720

Biography

Mrs. Yvette Hammer serves as Legacy Advisor and Board Emeritus for New Life Facility, Inc., offering ethical, cultural, and clinical guidance to the Board of Directors. With over 20 years of experience in the field of substance use disorder treatment, Mrs. Hammer brings a deep understanding of recovery systems, professional ethics, and culturally responsive approaches to behavioral health.

As a Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor–Clinical Addiction Specialist (CADC-CAS), she has dedicated her career to helping individuals and families overcome addiction through education, compassion, and accountability. Her work spans program development, community advocacy, and mentorship for emerging professionals in the recovery field.

Recognized as a leader in the drug and alcohol recovery community of the High Desert region, Mrs. Hammer has served as a keynote speaker and panelist at numerous events focused on addiction recovery, family systems, and community-based prevention. Her lived experience and professional insight continue to inspire both practitioners and clients to pursue sustained recovery and emotional healing.

Ethical & Cultural Advisory Role

In her advisory role, Mrs. Hammer provides ethical oversight, cultural consultation, and programmatic guidance to ensure New Life Facility’s initiatives remain inclusive, trauma-informed, and grounded in professional standards. Her contributions strengthen the organization’s commitment to integrity, cultural humility, and community trust.

Professional Instruction & Contributions

Throughout her two decades of service, Mrs. Hammer has collaborated with treatment centers, faith-based organizations, and community agencies to expand access to care and reduce stigma surrounding addiction. She has trained and mentored many professionals now working across Southern California’s behavioral health network, continuing to shape the next generation of substance use counselors and advocates.

Certifications and Credentials

Certified Alcohol & Drug Counselor – Clinical Addiction Specialist (CADC-CAS), Substance Use Disorder Specialist (SUDS), Continuing Education Lecturer and Speaker on Addiction Recovery

Community and Leadership Philosophy

Mrs. Hammer’s leadership philosophy is rooted in empathy, ethics, and empowerment. She believes that healing begins with understanding, and that sustainable recovery is built through community connection and cultural awareness. Her ongoing mission is to help break cycles of addiction while promoting dignity, education, and hope across every level of care.

Disclaimer

Mrs. Hammer serves in an honorary and advisory capacity as Legacy Advisor and Board Emeritus for New Life Facility, Inc. Her role is non-operational and volunteer-based, providing ethical and cultural guidance to support the organization’s long-term vision and community integrity.

Margie Martinez

Title: Food Distribution and Donations Coordinator, Steward of Food & Basic Needs Program

Since the launch of New Life Facility’s food distribution program in 2023, Margie Martinez has been at the heart of its success. As the Food Distribution and Donations Coordinator, Margie manages the day-to-day operations of the pantry,  from organizing volunteer teams to coordinating donation pickups and overseeing the logistics that make each distribution possible.

Through her dedication and leadership, Margie has helped provide food to more than 2,500 individuals and families in need. Her commitment to compassion, organization, and community connection ensures that every family served by New Life Facility is met with dignity, respect, and hope.

“Lucky” Martinez

Title: Pick-Up and Delivery Coordinator

“Lucky” Martinez plays a key role in keeping New Life Facility’s food distribution efforts running smoothly. As the Pick-Up and Delivery Coordinator, Lucky oversees the transportation and handling of donations,  ensuring food and essential items are safely collected, organized, and delivered where they’re needed most.

Since the start of the food distribution program in 2023, Lucky has worked tirelessly behind the scenes, coordinating routes, assisting with loading and unloading, and supporting volunteers and community partners. His dedication and reliability help make it possible for New Life Facility to reach hundreds of families each month with compassion and consistency.

Alysia Webb, MA, CRC

Title: Director of Vocational Training & Rehabilitation

Description:
Alysia is a dedicated professional with a Master’s degree in Vocational Rehabilitation Counseling and a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) designation. With extensive experience in career development and rehabilitation, she specialize in guiding individuals toward sustainable and fulfilling employment opportunities.

In her role, Alysia oversees educational training programs and instructional methodologies to ensure they align with the high standards upheld by New Life Facility. Her focus is on equipping participants with the skills and resources necessary to secure and retain careers in fields that align with their passions and are targeted for industry growth.

By fostering a structured and supportive learning environment, Alysia helps individuals build confidence, develop essential professional competencies, and navigate the workforce with success. Her goal is to empower every participant with the tools and guidance needed to achieve long-term career stability and personal fulfillment.

Certification:
Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC)

Stephanie West, PPE

Title: Instructor

Description: I am a dedicated parenting instructor and a proud mother with over 4 years of experience working closely with children and parents. For the past 2 years, I have specialized in learning, applying, and instructing Positive Discipline Parenting techniques. This approach emphasizes mutual respect, connection, and problem-solving, offering parents tools to nurture cooperation and responsibility in their children without resorting to punitive measures.

My passion lies in empowering parents to navigate the complexities of both co-parenting and independent parenting in a positive, effective manner. By fostering communication, understanding, and empathy, I help parents build stronger relationships with their children and create environments where everyone thrives. My goal is to share practical strategies and life lessons to support families in building respectful and harmonious dynamics.

Certification:

PPE (Positive Parenting Educator )

Michelle Villanueva, SCM

Title: Instructora/Instructor

Soy bilingüe y estoy profundamente comprometido con apoyar a los clientes en su crecimiento personal, trabajando directamente con ellos como instructor o traductor. Me esfuerzo por asegurar que reciban la instrucción de mayor calidad en áreas críticas como la crianza de los hijos, el manejo de la ira y la intervención para agresores (violencia doméstica), las cuales son a menudo esenciales para cumplir con los requisitos ordenados por el tribunal. Mi objetivo no es solo ayudar a los clientes a cumplir con estos mandatos, sino también proporcionar un entorno compasivo y comprensivo donde puedan aprender y aplicar genuinamente estas habilidades para mejorar sus vidas. Tengo una gran pasión por ayudar a las personas a reconstruir su autoestima y crear un futuro más brillante para ellos y sus seres queridos. Al ofrecer clases diseñadas con empatía y experiencia, busco equipar a los clientes con las herramientas necesarias para enfrentar sus desafíos y fomentar relaciones más saludables y positivas en el futuro.

I am bilingual and deeply committed to supporting clients in their personal growth by working directly with them as either an instructor or translator. I strive to ensure they receive the highest quality instruction in critical areas such as parenting, anger management, and batterer's intervention (domestic violence), which are often essential for meeting court-ordered requirements. My goal is not only to help clients comply with these mandates but to provide a compassionate, understanding environment where they can genuinely learn and apply these skills to improve their lives. I am passionate about helping individuals rebuild their sense of self and create a brighter future for themselves and their loved ones. By offering classes designed with both empathy and expertise, I aim to equip clients with the tools they need to navigate their challenges and foster healthier, more positive relationships moving forward.

Certification: 

Certified Professional Supervised Visitation Monitor 

email: admin@newlifefacility.com