About
Whittier Area First Day Coalition (First Day) was founded on a vision of a healthy, safe, and vibrant community; one where every person is treated with dignity, has a safe place to call home, and the opportunity to thrive. Inspired by this vision, and rooted in a spirit of compassion and service, our work reflects a deep belief in caring for our neighbors and walking alongside those in need.
Our mission is to help individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness transition toward stability and self-sufficiency. Founded by a coalition of concerned Whittier residents, our programs now serve communities across Los Angeles County, including both SPA 5 and SPA 7. Guided by values of compassion, respect, integrity, collaboration, empowerment, and innovation, we remain committed to meeting people where they are and supporting their journey forward.
Enduring Legacy
Since 1989, First Day has been a trusted presence in the greater Whittier community, serving approximately 2,000 individuals each year. Our work continues the legacy of our founder, Thaddeus “Ted” Knoll, whose unwavering belief that no one should have to live without shelter still shapes everything we do. We are dedicated to reaching those most in need, including LGBTQ+ and justice-involved individuals, with care that is both inclusive and person-centered.
Evolving Impact
Originally established as the Social Services Coalition through a partnership between the Whittier Area Interfaith Council, the City of Whittier, and the Salvation Army, First Day began by providing cold weather shelter and referrals for services. Today, we are a front-line provider offering a comprehensive continuum of care that supports individuals on their journey from homelessness to
permanent housing.
Holistic Support
Through interim housing, intensive case management, clinical services, employment support, and community-based supportive services, we address both immediate needs and the underlying causes of homelessness. By supporting the whole person: mind, body, and circumstance; we help individuals restore stability, rebuild their lives, and move toward lasting independence.
Mission
Whittier Area First Day (First Day) was founded on a vision for a healthy, safe, and vibrant community, which encompasses everything from secure housing, stable health, and productive employment to resident engagement, civic involvement, and respect for one’s neighbors. First Day’s mission is to help homeless and at-risk individuals and families transition toward self-sufficiency.
Our Model
First Day recognizes that addressing homelessness requires more than just services; it necessitates building strong relationships within the community. Our programs blend the principles of Housing First with trauma-informed care, adopting a “whatever it takes” approach to tackle the multifaceted challenges of homelessness. By incorporating harm reduction strategies, we ensure that individuals struggling with substance abuse have the opportunity to come indoors and address their underlying issues in a supportive environment.
Our Commitment
We are governed by the following values and shared commitments:
- Each person is treated with respect, dignity, fairness and compassion.
- Each person displays loyalty and pride in First Day and upholds the confidentiality of residents, visitors and co-workers.
- Each person demonstrates commitment to open communication.
- Each person presents themselves as an ambassador of First Day and the agency’s mission.
Leadership
Dr. Lupe Rivera
Chief Executive Officer
Dr. Belen Gonzalez
Chief Clinical Officer
Randall Trice, MSW
Chief Program Officer
Paul Oh
HR Generalist
Kassandra Perez
Operations Director
Savera Ahmad
Quality Assurance Director
Rudy Garcia
Program Director – Pathway (Santa Fe Springs)
Yessenia Sigala
Program Director – Ted's Place (Whittier)
Stacy Jauregui
Program Director – Hondo (Downey)
Board of Directors
At Whittier First Day, our Board of Directors is a dedicated group of community leaders, advocates, and supporters who share a commitment to ensuring that every person is treated with dignity, compassion, and hope. Their leadership, guidance, and passion help strengthen our mission and expand our impact as we work together to support individuals experiencing homelessness across Los Angeles County.
Rene Licon
Chair
Certified Financial Planner™
RSL Wealth Management
Rebecca Campos
Treasurer
Human Resources Professional
Retired
Ana Lilia Barazza
Secretary
Director of Donor Experience and Philanthropic Communications
AltaMed Foundation
Luis S. Garcia, EdD, LCSW
Member-at-Large
Senior Consultant
Advocates for Human Potential, Inc.
Steven Hernandez
Member-at-Large
Chief Deputy
Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors
Aubrey Lebard
Member-at-Large
Businessperson
California State University, Fullerton
Francine Hathaway Rippy
Member-at-Large
President
Fred R. Rippy, Inc.
Martin Tourville
Member-at-Large
Market President SVP
BMO US
Ming Wright
Member-at-Large
Asst VP, HR Data Analytics,
Systems, and HCM Budget
Chapman University
Join our Board
We believe that everyone deserves the opportunity for a new beginning, regardless of their background, circumstances, or past challenges. As a member of the Whittier First Day Board of Directors, you can help guide our mission and support our unhoused neighbors on their journey toward stability, self-sufficiency, and permanent housing. If you are interested in creating a lasting change in our community, we invite you to complete the interest form and explore board service opportunities.