Meet Our Board of Directors

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 Board Chairperson

Kimberley is a model of inspirational leadership who plays a crucial role, as Board Chair of I AM A BETTER ME! Her background as an attorney strengthens the role of senior management. Her professional background aligns with the mission of the organization. She has done extensive work in the nonprofit sector, serving The marginalized communities. Currently, she is a staff attorney at

RiseBoro influencing and changing the lives of seniors. Previously Kimberley served as the Staff Attorney and Foreclosure Services Manager at Neighborhood housing services of Jamaica, in Queens New York. She was at the forefront of assisting individuals facing foreclosure, provided legal guidance, advocated for homeowners, and protected their rights, during challenging times. Her commitment contributes to empowering community members, ensuring housing stability, and fostering financial well-being. 

Kimberley started her career in banking at Bank of New York. She has served as a Trustee on the

Roosevelt School Board. And served as Chair for various committees on the New York State

Neighborhood Preservation Program in Albany, New York

 Board 1st Vice-Chairperson 

 It is an amazing opportunity to have Felita serve on our board, as 1st Vice Chair of I AM A BETTER ME! She echoes our vision and goals for the clients we serve. She is an experienced Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with over 20 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families, helping them cope with anger, grief, depression and various relational issues. Her slogan is, Today you are one step closer to a new you where you feel empowered and on a positive path to growth and well-being. Her goal is to help you uncover your true potential and lead a life that is worth celebrating. While we cannot change difficult situations of the past, we can work together to better understand and resolve challenges in our lives. By applying complementary therapy approaches and techniques, we will unearth long-standing behavior patterns or negative perceptions that may hamper you from experiencing a more fulfilling and productive life. 

 Board 2nd Vice-Chairperson 

Avril is a strategic addition to the team who plays the vital role of 2nd  Vice-Chair of I AM A BETTER ME! Avril is a champion of social change who uses her voice and community influence to highlight the issues of the day. A marketing pioneer, who is the founder and host of the Avril TV/Radio Talk Show. Since 2002, The Avril Show 93.5 FM. markets and promotes local businesses and speaks on current issues. Avril is a firm believer in education who started the Avril Show Foundation, Inc. to award scholarships to community youth leaders, for positive impact and empowering them to seek higher educational opportunities. At her Annual Dinner Dance fundraiser, she connects, educates and celebrates the youth, cancer survivors, business leaders and exemplary individuals. The proceeds from this event are used for sending children to summer camp, back to school supplies, charitable causes and support the NYPD Explorers Program. Avril started her career as a Nurse Assistant at North Central Bronx Hospital. Later, trained as a Medical Technician, working at Montefiore Hospital in Care for the Homeless, impacting the lives of many who felt hopeless. She currently Chairs the Board of Directors at the Montefiore Hospital Wakefield Campus. At Community Board 11 she chairs the Sanitation Committee. And works closely with the 47th Police Precinct and serves as treasurer for the 47th Precinct Council. Advocating  for the community and police issues.  

 Board Treasurer

Rev. Dr. Nancy Fields brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the program. She is a remarkable professional. She is the Director of Supervised Ministry at New York Theological Seminary Currently serving as Senior Pastor of Eastchester Presbyterian Church in Bronx, NY Her dedication extends to co-supervising the newly approved Clinical Pastoral Education (CPE) program at NYTS, where she imparts her wisdom to future ministers. Additionally, she contributes to the D. Min program by sharing her expertise with aspiring theological scholars. Recognized for her outstanding service. During 2008-2009, she served as a resident chaplain at supported residences in Brooklyn, NY. Has receiver numerous honors and awards.

 Board Secretary

Lisa Alvarez is a high-energy leader. She is resourceful and supportive and brings a wealth of knowledge to the organization. Her background as an educator strengthens the role of senior management. In her role as Board Secretary, she records and transcribes the minutes of the corporation in addition to signing off on important documents as approved by the board. She is the Administrative Director at Escuela Hispana Montessori Inc. Where she Leads and Oversee the day-to-day school operations to allow instructional staff to focus on implementing a high-quality academic program. Demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement and learning through professional development. Assume responsibility for the school’s academic and organizational success and fiscal viability- Collaborate with all stakeholders to create the overall success of the program.

Dean of Programs  

As Dean of Programs Rev. Shabaka brings her 20 years’ management experience from Health and Hospital, She is the Project Manager and Co-Founder Nubian Foundation. Serves as the Assistant to the Dean of the United Missionary Baptist Association & Congress of Christian Education and is the youth pastor at Bethesda Baptist Church in New Rochelle. Confident trainer, public speaker and motivator. Strong experience driving customer centered initiatives. She is a result oriented with metric based sustainable outcomes LEAN.  Competent in managing fiscal budgets and amazingly comfortable with conflict resolutions and customer satisfaction. Strong network and team building skills, fully engaging and collaborative. Excellent record of accomplishment in staff development, implementing and sustaining change. Rev. Shabaka’s passion for mission aligns with A BETTER ME! Mission and endorses the simple yet life-changing message of the Bible. Her journey is rooted in a deep passion for higher education, creating job opportunities, training, empowerment, and mentoring. She tirelessly works to uplift youth, the elderly, and disabled individuals, helping them rise above the circumstances of oppression and poverty.