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Who
We Are

people with passion.

Together empowering under-resourced neighborhoods to thrive. 

Our amazing team is comprised of not only staff members, but also community members who care enough to act. Each one of us has a personal story that led us to this work. 

Monika Grasley 

Executive Director 

Monika founded LifeLine CDC in 2007 with a vision to empower under-resourced neighborhoods to thrive. Her passion for Asset-Based Community Development drives her to discover the gifts, passions, and abilities of neighbors and to work together to build stronger, safer, and more resourceful communities. Monika has been married to her husband, Jim, for 38 years, and in their free time, they enjoy camping and kayaking together.

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Lily Rodarte

Operations Manager

Lily brings a strong background in systems work and customer service, combined with a deep passion for serving others. What stood out most to us is her genuine heart for people. Her personal story reflects a powerful drive to support and encourage others as they move forward in their lives.

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Marcella Moralez 

Community Connector

Marci leads the team in Winton. She came to us in 2016 through the WEX program. Marci has two teenage boys who are a vital part of our work in Winton. Marci's personal story is a great example for others and her passion to help others is contagious. She and her boys got a chance recently to go flying through the EAA Young Eagles program. 

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Desiree Miranda

Community Connector

Desire’s heart for both children and adults was evident from the very first day she joined us. Her energy to serve and her ability to connect with others in meaningful ways make her an inspiration as she walks alongside people, helping them move forward.

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Robert Rosales 

Community Connector

Robert came to us in the summer of 2021 to volunteer with us. By the fall we saw his giftedness with young people and he has been an amazing asset to our team. Robert is creative and loves to change the color of his hair every month. 

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Emanauel Estrada Vera

Community Connector

Emanuel carries a quiet strength, and his heart for the community is evident in the way he interacts with others. He brings a steady, thoughtful presence that helps create trust and connection with those we serve. Since joining our team, Emanuel has contributed many valuable gifts, using his skills and compassion to walk alongside individuals and encourage them as they move forward. His humility and consistency make him an important part of the LifeLine community.

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Martha Olvera 

Community Connector

Martha first joined LifeLine through our SerJobs program and has since become a valued staff member. Her steadfast work ethic and deep passion for the community are a true asset to our mission. She has a special heart for serving our older population, bringing both joy and a wealth of life experience to her work. Martha also teaches our ESL classes, creating welcoming spaces where individuals can grow in confidence and connection.

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Rosemarie Hernandez

Community Connector

Rosemarie has been part of LifeLine since its early beginnings nearly 20 years ago. She later served in the local school district before returning to LifeLine, bringing with her a wealth of experience, a powerful personal story, and a deep passion for helping others move out of poverty. Her journey and commitment continue to inspire both our team and the community we serve.

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Briana Lopez

Community Connectors 

Briana is one of our newest team members, first joining LifeLine as a youth intern. From the beginning, we saw her strength and resilience, as well as her natural ability to connect with others. She has a heart for guiding young people and is passionate about helping them grow into the best version of themselves. Briana brings energy, authenticity, and a deep commitment to the next generation.

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Luis Quintero-Oseguera

Community Connectors 

Luis recently joined our team after faithfully volunteering with us for some time. He has a strong heart for the community and is always looking for new resources that can help people move out of poverty. His own life experiences shape the way he connects with others, allowing him to walk alongside individuals with empathy, understanding, and a genuine desire to see them succeed.

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This is our fourth year partnering with the UC Merced College Corps program, where 10 students serve alongside us for a full year, learning and contributing to our work. Their passion and energy encourage and inspire us, while their fresh perspectives bring innovative ideas to our communities. As many are first-generation college students, their example motivates our youth to dream big, while their presence also brings joy and connection to the adults we serve.

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