Meet the team.
Juan Chavez
President
Juan Chavez is an Arizona native, born and raised in South Phoenix. At age 19, his life radically changed, and since then he has dedicated himself to helping change the lives of others and see his community and city restored. Juan is married to Christina Chavez, and together they have three beautiful children.
Outside of his role with AZ Reach, Juan serves actively at his church, Beloved South Phoenix, and in the broader South Phoenix community. He taught high school for 7 years and has worked in the non-profit sector and on high school campuses since 2010. Juan holds a Master’s degree from Covenant Seminary and Leadership Development training from the DVULI foundation. An avid coffee enthusiast, you can often find him sipping on cold brew at various local cafes.
Christina Chavez
Business Administrator
Experienced, trustworthy, and personable – these traits aptly describe Christina Chavez, a key member of our team. With her Bachelor’s degree in business accounting, Christina plays a crucial role in maintaining the trusted and successful operations of our non-profit organization behind the scenes. Beyond her professional contributions, Christina is also a loving mother, devoted wife, and a wonderful role model for the young women we work with in the community.
Rochto Joassin
Mentor
Rochto, known to some as RJ, is our Project Manager at AZ Reach. With over 10 years of experience, Rochto brings invaluable skills and expertise to our team. In his role, he oversees the successful execution of key initiatives and programs, ensuring we deliver maximum impact for the youth and families we serve.
Rochto’s deep roots in the local community also make him a trusted advisor and connector. He leverages his connections to forge partnerships that expand our reach and resources. Additionally, Rochto runs a community center in Central Phoenix where many AZ Reach students participate in after-school activities. This allows him to provide continuity of support and mentorship outside of our regular programming.
Through his dedicated leadership and ability to relate to our participants, Rochto has become one of the most beloved figures at AZ Reach. His passion for empowering young people is truly inspirational.
Sarah Ritorto
Mentor
Sarah has the remarkable ability to light up any room she enters. She brings a distinctive leadership style that encourages students to be open, vulnerable, and authentic. Sarah’s deep love and unwavering passion for this work manifests in the powerful impact she has as a mentor. We are truly grateful to have Sarah as part of our team.
Dawit Kebede
Mentor
Dawit Kebede joined AZ Reach with a clear vision and unwavering drive to make a meaningful impact on the lives of young men. Drawing from his own experiences of being on the wrong path earlier in life, Dawit deeply understands the importance of positive male role models in guiding those astray towards a better way. Our students frequently pass by the classroom, eagerly asking “Is Dawit here today?” – a testament to the strong connections he has forged and the difference he makes in their lives.
Dana Dailey
Mentor and Board Member
With over two decades of experience serving youth and young adults, Dana Dailey brings a powerful blend of love, passion, and expertise to her role as a mentor. Her own compelling personal story deeply resonates with and inspires the lives of those she works with. Beyond her professional contributions, Dana is a highly respected leader in our community. Driven by a strong desire to see healthy homes and families thrive across Arizona, Dana is a transformative force in the lives of all she encounters.
Anthony Hall
Mentor
Anthony, affectionately known as Coach Anthony, brings a wealth of mentoring experience to our team. He is incredibly intentional about getting to know the students he works with on a personal level. Those he mentors soon discover that Anthony is always available to provide a listening ear, an encouraging word, and the motivation and wisdom needed to help them make the right choices. Anthony is truly a great gift to our organization and the students we serve.
Gabrielle Clark
Mentor
Gabrielle Clark is an exceptional educator and youth mentor who is a tremendous asset to AZ Reach. Her deep commitment to empowering underserved students aligns perfectly with our mission. Gabrielle has a unique gift for connecting with and supporting students who may often fall through the cracks. Gabrielle also runs her own non-profit, TRUCE Basketball, which provides mentorship and athletic opportunities for at-risk youth.
Emma Tautolo
Mentor
Emma knows how to ask good, thought-provoking questions that help our students reflect and grow. She goes above and beyond to serve and love the young people we work with. Emma’s expertise and passion for our youth and community development is invaluable as we continue to grow and serve more communities.
Josiah Stewart
Mentor
Josiah Stewart is a passionate advocate for youth development and community engagement. His infectious energy and empathetic leadership style make him an invaluable member of the team. Josiah’s ability to listen deeply and find creative solutions is a major asset as we continue expanding our impact.