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.

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.

Jeremy Flores serves as the ECM Supervisor at LifeLine CDC, where he supports individuals and families by connecting them to healthcare, housing, and community resources. He began his journey with LifeLine as a Community Connector and has continued growing into leadership while staying committed to serving his community. Jeremy is bilingual in English and Spanish and is currently pursuing his education in social work, with a passion for helping people overcome barriers and build a better future

Desiree'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.

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.

Vida is a dynamic Community Connector dedicated to bridging gaps and building meaningful relationships that spark collective action. With a natural talent for spotting shared goals and fostering collaboration, he enjoys bringing diverse groups together, including local leaders, residents, and organizations, to turn shared visions into reality. Vida has a high empathy score and loves networking. 

Nathaniel joined us through the GEO Program in July 2025. Growing up in the Atwater/Winton area, he always wanted to give back and help the community. He brings leadership experience from being a team captain during his time playing college football. After moving from job to job, he says he finally found his home at LifeLine, where he can help community members in need. Through LifeLine, he said he was able to grow and mature as a person, improve his life, and start a family.

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.

Ruth Flores Maldonado, states she is a proud Merced resident.She works as a Community Connector at Winton Life Line CDC, where she enjoys supporting and connecting with people in the community. Ruth states she is kind, resilient, and hardworking, and always willing to help the community in any way she can. Outside of work, she enjoys hiking, going to the gym, and watching scary movies. She is the proud mom to my two boys, who are a great source of strength and motivation in my life. Looking toward the future, she hopes to retire at 70 and move to Mexico to enjoy a peaceful and fulfilling retirement.

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.

Eric is a valued member of our team who first connected with LifeLine through the GEO Reentry Program. His journey has shaped his passion for growth, resilience, and giving back to the community. Through his own experiences, Eric understands the importance of having positive people and opportunities available when they matter most. He is passionate about working with young people, building meaningful connections, and encouraging them to recognize their potential. Eric brings authenticity, determination, and a genuine commitment to helping the next generation make positive choices and become the best version of themselves.

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. 

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.

Samuel Rodriquez has volunteered with us since his daughter was 3 (now 19) and has recently joined our team through the SerJobs program. Sam helps with our food pantries and coffee hour, handles all our maintenance, supports our small gardens, and helps strengthen our communities.