Founders
Vittoria Jimerson
Founder, Executive Director
Vittoria Jimerson has worked for the Department of Defense for over 17 years, focusing on Logistics, Supply Chain Management and Contracting.
Mrs. Jimerson is currently a Professor of Logistics for the Department of Defense (Defense Acquisition University).
Vittoria obtained her Bachelor’s degree from Capital University in Public Administration, her Master’s Degree in Business Administration and Marketing from Franklin University.
She has pursued her Ph.D. in Organizational Development and is currently completing her Doctorate in Supply Chain Management.
Vittoria also owns Five Gems Consulting LLC, where she consults non-profit organizations, as well as provides small business management, focusing on policy and procedures.
She has previously taught at Baker College (Auburn Hills, MI), Northwood University (Troy, MI), and is currently an Adjunct Professor at Lansing Community College in Corporate Trainings.
Vittoria’s passion and purpose is focused on working with youth and women on personal development, mentoring, as well as business and financial education.
Jason Overmyer
Founder, Director of Outreach & Advocacy
Jason is currently focusing his efforts on philanthropy in the Albion and Jackson, Michigan communities.
Mr. Overmyer is a graduate of Michigan State University with a degree in Turfgrass Management and is currently working on an advanced degree from Penn State University in the same field and an Associate Degree in Business Management from Kalamazoo Valley Community College.
Jason is very passionate about teaching life lessons through bowling and golf. He strongly believes that these two games go hand in hand when making decisions in life.
He goes on to say “If someone can call a penalty on themselves while on the golf course, they’re going to be able to hold themselves accountable in life.” Not to mention, while bowling, “Every day is a new frame and every frame is a new day!” “An opportunity to make a better effort, an opportunity to learn from mistakes.”
Bowling and golf are two games that most definitely mirror life.
Andrea Brown-West
Founder, Director
A Disabled Navy Veteran, Andrea Brown-West currently works for Tank Automotive Command (TACOM) as a Technical Writer-Editor.
Andrea has been a Technical Writer-Editor for 18 + years and holds a Dual Master Degree in Business and Global Leadership and Management. Andrea also has several certificates: Project Management, Logistics Management, Supply Chain Management, Network Engineering Management, And International Business.
Prior to working at TACOM Andrea Brown-West joined the USN in 1987 and was assigned to the USS ACADIA AD42 as Radioman (Telecommunications) in the Operations Department.
While onboard the USS ACADIA AD42 Andrea earned several medals and citations such as: Navy Unit Commendation Medal, Navy Battle E, Navy Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Medal, and Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal are just a few.
During tour on USS Acadia
Andrea went on several deployments, while en route to Diego Garcia then the USS Stark was hit by Iraqi Mirage and was severely damaged on May 17, 1987.
The USS Acadia was to provide forward deployment and battle damage repair to the USS Stark. The USS Stark incident sparked the first Gulf War but was later renamed to Operation Earnest Will due to females not being allowed in a War zone.
Andrea has over 28 years of services combined as a Veteran and DOD Civilian. Andrea’s passion is working with other Veterans and Youth who struggle with PTSD, Mental Health challenges and how to be prepared to navigate in a society that does not always understand these struggles.
Andrea feels that we as a society need to #breakthestigma when it comes to dealing with mental health struggles.
Board Members
Candace Graham
Board Member
Ms. Candace Graham has been an educator for over 15 years working in an urban public school district.
Candace earned her Bachelor's Degree in Liberal Arts and a minor in Early Childhood Education from Eastern Michigan University.
Candace furthered her education by obtaining a Masters Degree in Reading from Grand Canyon University.
She currently holds a Professional Teaching Certification for grades K-5th grade as well as a ZA Endorsement.
Candace has a passion for educating children and believes that our children are capable of reaching their fullest potential.
Aaron O. Taylor
Board Member
Mr. Aaron Taylor has been working in Defense & Aerospace for 17 years, and the last 12 as a
Department of Army civilian.
As an Engineer within the Army’s Ground Vehicle Systems Center, Aaron
has supported; major DoD acquisition programs; Army Science and Technology initiatives; and the
Army’s modernization initiative.
Aaron earned his Bachelor’s Degree in Engineering Technology from Central Michigan University, a
Master’s in Manufacturing Engineering from Western Michigan University, and is a certified Project
Management Professional (PMP).
Aaron is a staunch supporter of Science Technology Engineering & Mathematics (STEM) education for
children, and enjoys sharing his knowledge and experience.
Cressie Vargo
Board Member
Information coming soon!
Yolanda "Yogi" Thomas
Board Member
Yolanda Thomas is a MBA Professional with 18 years of federal service to the Department of Defense (Army). As Logistics Manager, she supports the warfighter in leading Acquisition, Technology & Logistics services and projects.
Affectionately called Yogi, she has real heart for humanity and is a standout writer, speaker, and supporter for girls and teens with low self esteem needs.
The focus to live on purpose is also a humbled desire to embrace endless opportunities to H.U.G. (help, understand, give) "everyday" people in need which she believes requires sacrifice, commitment, and partnership with others.
Her inspiration for serving in the WHO is on par with the greater vision for embracing people in underserved areas to live, build, and thrive as empowered individuals in their communities.
Chris Butler
Board Member
Chris manages a local manufacturing company in Jackson, Michigan and is a graduate of Jackson Lumen Christi, Veteran, and was a member of the Bronson City Police Department as well as the Branch County Sheriff’s Department. Chris has a lovely wife and two daughters who attend Queen of the Miraculous Medal Elementary School.
Daniel Phipps (Nile Construction)
Board Member
Information coming soon!
Dr. Kimberly Mitchell
Board Member
Dr. Kimberly J. Mitchell works for Department of Defense in Logistics, she is a Retired Army Veteran and President of a Non-Profit Organization that currently operates in Michigan and Louisiana; which provides food and clothing to Veterans, Seniors, Homeless, and undeserved communities.
Dr. Mitchell has her degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Management, Associates Degree in Theology, and holds a Certified Certificate for Supply Chain Management, Leadership, and Demonstrated Master Logistician (DML).
Dr. Mitchell thrives on improving the lives of those in need and doing it with a pure heart.
Krishaun Harris-Johnson
Board Member
10 years with the State of Michigan with the Department of Health and Human Services. Bachelor Degree in Criminal Justice from the University of Phoenix and Station Master's Degree in Rehabilitation Counseling from Wayne State University. Krishaun is dedicated in servicing the community in areas of mental health, geriatric, child welfare and veterans.
Savage Roots Construction (Carlie Richardson & Josh Elkins)
Board Members
Information coming soon!
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Heather Holleque-Hall
Board Member
Heather is a hometown girl having been born and raised in Jackson, MI. She graduated from Northwest Highschool in 1992, attended Jackson College, Western Michigan and Empire Cosmetology school (Elizabethtown, KY). She returned in 2014 buying her childhood home in Mountie Nation! She has worked with Military Families for over 25 years in both volunteer and professional multiple capacities for the Army and Michigan National Guard. Heather raised 4 children, has supported multiple combat and peace- keeping deployments, an active – duty spouse, mother and sister. Heather has one son who is currently serving with the Michigan Army National Guard and a son who served proudly with the US Coast Guard.
Advisors for Community Outreach, Education, Agricultural Techniques & Civic Engagement
Brandalyn Byler
Brandalyn was born and raised in Michigan and for the past 18 years has fulfilled many different roles. From Project Manager to Small Business Owner, Brandalyn has a passion for serving others.
Brandalyn has been married to Joseph Byler for 19 years and currently assists Joseph with all work pertaining to their business as well as managing the home and various activities of their 3 children.
Brandalyn has a heart for local missions and believes strongly that the family is the backbone of society.
Houston White (Nashville TN)
Father of 2, Career Bowler and Sports Enthusiast with a Bowling Hall of Fame Father began bowling at the age of 2. Bowling has taught Houston how to be a man, discipline, punctuality, preparation, and dedication.
Competition is the best teacher, it doesn't care about your feelings and brings out the best and worst in competitors. Bowling and sports have provided me with a life beyond my wildest dreams. It has challenged me, developed me as a person and man. I feel that it is not only my passion, but my duty to pass on knowledge, experiences and life lessons to the next generation.
Joseph Byler
Born and raised in Michigan, Joseph is a small business owner and entrepreneur. Introduced to carpentry at the age of 10 through the family business, he is a Master Carpenter by trade.
Over the past 20 years, Joseph has pursued education in the areas of Fitness Consulting and Financial Coaching and holds a variety of special certifications. Joseph is also a Best-Selling Author of Zombie Deer and the Brow Tine Buck: A True Story (Amazon).
Joseph is a visionary with a passion for helping people. His enthusiasm and unique expertise, combined with his creativity, leadership, and problem-solving skills, make him a valuable asset to any team (especially at WHO).
Alexander Persons
K.A.R.M.A. Farmer Cooperative, Master Gardner and Jackson MI Native.
Information coming soon!
Shannon Family
Veteran Family Outreach
John Shannon, a Jackson native and retired Green Beret enlisted in the Army in 2002. He began his military career as a paratrooper in the 1/501st Parachute Infantry Regiment located in Fort Richardson Alaska. After deploying in 2003 to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom he volunteered for Special Forces Assessment and Selection. Upon being selected he was assigned to the John F Kennedy Special Warfare Center in Fort Bragg North Carolina where he earned the coveted Green Beret.
John was then assigned to 5th Special Forces Group where he did 5 more combat deployments as well as deployments to Jordan, Kuwait and Lebanon. There he was awarded two bronze stars for his actions in Afghanistan. While serving in Afghanistan in 2014 SFC Shannon suffered injuries and was medically retired in 2016. Since his retirement John has studied at Michigan State University and dedicated himself to help other veterans and families who struggle with the impacts of war.
John Shannon is a brand ambassador for Mission 22 as well as a legacy guardian for the Til Valhalla Project. SFC (RET) Shannon’s passion is serving others as others have served him while dealing with injuries sustained in combat, PTSD and chemical dependency.
John’s new mission is to become more involved with Veterans across Jackson County and beyond. John looks forward to helping veterans and their families heal and reintegrate by sharing his testimony, providing outreach and support as well as provide help through health and nutrition and the positive impacts it can have for veterans and their families.
John is an adventurer, family man, and artist who is currently engaged and will be getting married in the summer of 2023.
Amani Cotton
Youth Ambassador
Amani is a Junior at East Jackson High School who aspires to work with youth on suicide prevention, and sharing her testimony about overcoming depression & suicidal tendencies.
Dr. Thomas Green
W.H.O. Advisory Board Member
Dr. Thomas Green is a post-doctoral research and co-instructor in the Plant,
Soil, and Microbial Sciences department at Michigan State University.
He has more than 26 years of experience in the golf course industry from working as a turf grass intern to conducting research on improving golf
course turf playability.
Thomas has a lot of experience and enjoys conducting community outreach and consulting in the green industry.
More so he has been a teaching assistant and co-instructor within the
Institute of Agricultural Technology for more than 10 years.
Mr. Billy D. Williams
W.H.O. Advisory Board Member
Billy D. Williams is from Detroit, Michigan.
He attended Mumford Senior High School in Detroit, Michigan made famous by Eddie Murphy in Beverly Hills Cop I.
Mr. Williams was awarded a
Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a Master of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan.
Mr. Williams is also a military veteran having served in the United States Coast Guard. He is now retired after working as Corporate Trainer for the law firm of Bodman PLC which has offices located in Detroit, Cheboygan, Ann Arbor, Troy and Grand Rapids, Michigan.
In addition to his work for Bodman, Mr. Williams served as the Park Commissioner for Ypsilanti Township.
He has been married to his wife Andrea for well over thirty years and they have two adult children, along
with two grandsons.
Mr. Williams enjoys travel and has a vast collection of shot glasses from his
worldwide travels.
