My name is Yaro Garcia. I have been a mental health provider for years. I have also been teaching in higher education and counseling in clinical practice since 2013. I still enjoy both (treating and educating). In the past, I served as a clinical director of a shelter for survivors of violent crimes for seven years.

My Ph.D. is in General Psychology with an emphasis on Cognition. I am a Licensed Mental Health Counselor. I have been regionally and nationally recognized as an expert and advocate concerning human trafficking. I won a Purple Heart Award for my work with this population.

I am currently the executive director of my group practice called Therapy Treatment Team and a non-profit called Counseling for Community Wellness (CCW), where we provide on-site counseling services at rural and underserved organizations. Currently, the CCW team provides counseling at 10 sites, including shelters-adult and minors, after-school programs, children experiencing grief, and families in crisis.

Hi, my name is Dannie Rodriguez and I’ve been married for 10 years to my wife Christina, but we have been a couple for almost 29 years. I am 46 years old with 5 children, 2 girls 22 and 18 years old, and 3 boys 13, 9, and 5 years old. Presently I am employed by LeeTran Public Transportation as a customer service representative, and I enjoy my job very much.

I am very involved in my community. I volunteer at my local church as well as other local churches. I also volunteer at the local men’s and women’s shelter. I enjoy playing sports and having gatherings with family and friends.

Finally, I have a passion for families to be whole. I desire to walk alongside fathers and mothers alike, towards their purpose through encouragement and mentorship. I strive to be an example, as well as a resource, who can point families towards other resources and to possibly view circumstances from a different perspective, which hopefully can help them meet their goals and may lead them to experience joy and peace. I look forward to working and growing alongside fathers and families as they prepare to reach their potential.

Exciting Update: Meet Sally and Cleshay – A Family Mentor Program Power Duo!

In December, Sally, a seasoned mentor, and Cleshay, a bright FSW student, were paired up, and the connection was instant! Cleshay is already reaping the rewards of Sally’s valuable mentorship, making strides toward her goals.

The Family Mentor Program is all about forging meaningful connections like Sally and Cleshay’s, creating a supportive network within our community. Our mentors play a crucial role in empowering individuals to thrive personally and make positive impacts on the community.

Curious about becoming a mentor or discovering the benefits of this incredible program? Join us in making a difference, one mentoring match at a time! #FamilyMentorProgram #CommunityConnections #MentorshipMatters

Hi, my name is Gardner. I am married and have two children who are grown and married. One lives locally with his wife and two daughters. The other lives in PA with her spouse and three sons. I retired from the military in 1995 after 23 years of service. After military retirement I joined the Social Security Administration as a Service Representative. I also held additional positions as a Claims Representative, Technical expert, Office supervisor and finally as a Group Supervisor in the downtown Pittsburgh Disability Hearings Office.

I enjoy traveling with my wife Wendy, spending time with our grandchildren, biking, playing handball and doing family history research. I am a volunteer with United Way VITA program, and I spend a great deal of time helping at our church – Gateway Trinity Lutheran Church, as a sort of handyman and jack of all trades. I have traveled all over the world and the US and look forward to using my extensive life experiences to assist others as needed.

For more information on the Family Mentor Program and how to become a Mentor please visit: Family Mentor Program or email us at: familymentorprogram@cnswfl.org.

Being a family mentor for The Children’s Network of Southwest Florida fills my heart with joy.

In the journey of daily life, mistakes are inevitable, yet some individuals internalize them as defining flaws. My role transcends judgment; it’s about providing unconditional love and demonstrating that everyone is inherently worthy and enough. Guiding families through challenges, I find fulfillment in fostering a sense of belonging and helping them embrace their worth, despite life’s imperfections. I get so much joy from watching people grow and love themselves again!”

Sally

For more information on becoming a mentor please email us at:

familymentorprogram@cnswfl.org.