Beacons, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) public benefit nonprofit
empowering adults with diverse intellectual abilities!
IMPORTANT DATES & INFORMATION:
SUMMER WORKSHOPS! - Click Here
"DiscARTed" Exhibit Catalog featuring artists and works
Upcoming Events:
4/26/25: Club (5:30 - 8:30 pm) - Theme Earth & Beyond Sci-Fi
5/2/25: Beacons Makers' Market (11 am - 1 pm)
5/3/25: Moms' Succulent Wreath-Making Night! (3 - 5 pm) Sign up!
6/6/25: "Color in Motion" Art Exhibit - Click here to sign up
Beacons Staff
_edited_edited_edited.jpg)
Associate Instructor
Explorer Division
Associate Instructor
Explorer Division
Lead Instructor
PathFinder Division
_JPEG.jpeg)
Voyager Specialist
.jpg)
Lead Instructor
Studio Beacons
Lead Instructor
Explorer Division
_edited.jpg)
Billing Specialist
More coming! Beacons is always looking for new team members. If interested, please click here to learn of available openings.
* = Bilingual (Spanish)
B
MALERIE BAKER, M.S., CCSP
Assistant Director & Lead Instructor (PathFinder)
Malerie has her Masters in Public Accounting, and is also a certified Career Services Provider (CCSP) with a professional certificate in grant writing, including a Google Foundations of Project Management Certificate. She has worked as a career guidance technician at Surfside Educational Academy (Oceanside School District), a mentor and site coordinator with PASS Americorps, and as a resource parent with San Diego Youth Services. She has experience in a wide variety of support services including, but not limited to, academic assistance, career coaching, case management, employment development, and resource coordination.
JANET BANDERAS
Assistant Director & Lead Instructor (PathFinder) • Bilingual (Spanish) • ACRE Certified
Janet Banderas is a dedicated professional with a profound commitment to empowering adults with developmental disabilities. With a strong foundation cultivated over 16 years in customer-facing roles within the food and service industry, as well as memory care retirement homes, Janet possesses a unique ability to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds. Her genuine passion for making a difference led her to four impactful years at another local service provider, where she played a pivotal role as a Resource Counselor, nurturing essential life skills and fostering independence among her participants.
Janet's expertise is complemented by her ACRE certification in Community Employment Services, a testament to her dedication to tailored job placements. At Beacons, she will embrace her role as an associate instructor, skillfully guiding individuals to overcome challenges and supporting them on their path to purposeful and rewarding careers. Janet's empathy-driven communication and unwavering commitment to inclusivity exemplify her mission to create a positive, lasting influence on lives, making her an indispensable asset to the team.
ALEXIA BEELER, B.S. (Education)
Program Director of Passport Division
Alexia Beeler serves as the Director of the Passport division at Beacons, where she brings her expertise in individualized education to support trainees in achieving their personal and professional goals. With a strong background in teaching and curriculum development, Alexia is dedicated to creating engaging, effective learning experiences tailored to diverse needs.
Alexia began her career as a high school math teacher in Las Vegas, where she developed strategies to make complex concepts accessible and meaningful for students. After relocating to her hometown of Carlsbad, California, she transitioned to individualized education, spending the next ten years helping students with diverse learning needs build confidence and reach their full potential. She holds a B.S. in Secondary Education and an Adult Education Certification, further strengthening her ability to create learning environments where everyone can succeed.
Beyond education, Alexia is passionate about personal growth and self-discovery. She takes pride in helping others navigate their paths, whether through tailored instruction, mentorship, or innovative teaching strategies.
Outside of her professional role, Alexia is a creative at heart. Having attended art school, she enjoys painting, sketching, and crafting as outlets for self-expression. When she’s not engaged in her artistic pursuits, she loves spending time outdoors, especially at the dog beach with her beloved Goldendoodle. Whether she’s exploring new creative projects or enjoying the San Diego sunshine, Alexia finds balance between her passions and professional commitments.
ELIZABETH BINGHAM, B.A. (Liberal Arts)
Assistant Lead Facilitator (Club Beacons)
Elizabeth is an Assistant Lead Facilitator for Club Beacons and also helps out with Studio Beacons. She is passionate about creating a welcoming and inclusive environment and enjoys engaging in various activities to encourage people to socialize and learn.
Elizabeth has a liberal arts and interactive media background, graduating from Bryn Mawr College and completing the Digital Design certificate program at SDCCD. During college, she worked as a Teaching and Learning Consultant, providing feedback to instructors to create an environment where both instructors and students could excel. Elizabeth has also worked with the Parks and Recreation division for the City of San Diego where she facilitated a range of recreational and educational activities.
She deeply cares about learning and strives to meet people where they are and help them grow. Elizabeth appreciates the welcoming environment of Beacons, and she enjoys seeing trainees having fun while learning. She also enjoys listening to Creative Mornings talks.
BETHANY BRITT, M.Ed
Director of Explorer Division & Lead Instructor • ACRE Certified
Bethany was born and raised in Southern California and is a graduate of La Costa Canyon High School so she has endless contacts throughout our community to enrich activities for Explorer. She is also a trained self-determination facilitator and well-versed in the supports and options available in the community to help self-advocates learn more about their local area and service options.
Bethany has a BA in Special Education from Arizona State University and a Masters in Educational Counseling from National University. She holds credentials in Pupil Personnel Services, Educational Specialist of Instruction Level II and CrossCultural Language and Academic Development in the state of California.
Bethany taught special education in a Moderate/Severe program for the Chandler Unified School District and coached the girls JV soccer team for Hamilton High School for two years. After returning to San Diego, she taught in both Mild/Moderate and Moderate/Severe programs for the San Dieguito Union High School District for 13 years. During her time at SDUHSD, Bethany helped lead the TAP program at Torrey Pines High School and La Costa Canyon High School. In 2015, Bethany won the Collaborative Team Award for the North Coastal Consortium for Special Education.
Bethany is a valued member of the Beacons team and brings her years of experience to help optimize learning, increase confidence and facilitate social connections.
BROOKE BROWN, B.S. (Criminal Justice)
Associate Instructor (Studio Beacons)
Brooke joined Beacons as an associate instructor in the Studio Beacons division (creative arts). Prior to joining the Beacons team, Brooke served as a behavioral interventionist as well as an activity director and activities coordinator at memory care facilities, where she created, designed and provided creative group activities with compassion and patience.
Brooke also has experience in the coffee industry and will use those vocational experiences to support trainees as they learn more about career options and pathways. She has also supported a humane society to help and train shelter dogs.
C
ALINA R. CLARK
Instructor (Creative Arts Division) Program Specialist (Voyager)
Alina worked in the healthcare sector as a behavior technician before joining Beacons. In that role she helped clients to acquire skills, fostered client stability and drove skill acquisition of clients with behavior support plans to help them increase communication, self-help, and social as well as play skills. Prior to her work in behavior support, she worked in sales with UPS. She will help support Beacons' trainees 1:1 to help them reach their goals through community support, job coaching and other services to help them live their days as they wish. In her spare time she volunteers at with Children Ministries and gardens.
JORDAN CORDER, B.A. (Journalism)
Communications Lead Facilitator, Project Inspire
Jordan is a media and communications specialist with a passion for storytelling, digital marketing, and content creation. A graduate of Gonzaga University with a degree in Broadcast Journalism and a minor in Promotions, he brings a strong background in copywriting, digital media, and marketing strategy to Beacons.
As the Communications Lead Facilitator for Project Inspire, Jordan trains and mentors employees in creating in-house marketing materials, capturing event photography, and managing social media promotions. His expertise in Adobe Creative Suite, Canva, and social media marketing allows him to guide his team in producing high-quality content that amplifies Beacons' mission and impact.
Prior to Beacons, Jordan worked as a Copy Editor for The Upper Deck Company, crafting content for high-profile clients such as the NHL, PGA Tour, Marvel, and Halo. He also has experience in journalism, broadcasting, and digital marketing, having developed campaigns that increased audience engagement and sales.
Outside of work, Jordan enjoys broadcasting, scriptwriting, and exploring new media technologies. He is excited to support Beacons by empowering employees to share meaningful stories and connect with the community through creative marketing initiatives.
D
TRACY D'AMBROSI
Associate Instructor (PathFinder)
Tracy plays a vital role in supporting the personal and professional growth of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Her involvement at Beacons is fueled by a belief in the transformative power of job training and social opportunities to enhance lives, a commitment mirrored in her own experiences as a parent.
Transitioning from early childhood education to vocational training, Tracy has found her stride in engaging with a demographic that thrives under her guidance. She is known for her empathetic approach, listening keenly to the trainees and offering advice that resonates with their unique paths.
In her role, Tracy faces and overcomes challenges with a positive spirit, drawing inspiration from the resilience and achievements of those she mentors. Her personal joy comes from witnessing the direct impact of her work, whether it's through a trainee's smile or a problem solved. Beyond her professional life, Tracy’s heart lies in the simple pleasures of nature and self-sufficiency, with hobbies that range from gardening to biking, and aspirations that reflect her down-to-earth ethos.
E
ASHLEY EDGAR
Associate Instructor (Explorer)
Ashley first joined Beacons as one of the two Administrative Assistants, with an extensive background in management of teams at a major retail corporation. Ashely later was recruited to join the Explorer team given her retail background, which includes having worked as a visual merchandiser and style team member. Ashley has also previously worked as a camp counselor for the YMCA and in childcare for a leading nonprofit and private in-home caregiving.
Ashley will provide general support to all Explorer trainees to help them reach their vocational goals and purse a pathway of their choosing. As a current Social Work and Human Services student at Palomar College, she has a desire to work in a profession that enhances clients' well being and utilizes her experience from leadership roles. Her favorite part about working at Beacons is building social connections with the trainees and making sure she creates a welcoming and positive experience for all. Ashley enjoys time with her family and dogs, reading and hiking!
G
SANDRA GUAJARDO
Associate Instructor (Explorer)
Sandra is an Associate Instructor for Beacons and joined Beacons as an accomplished preschool owner, director, and teacher bringing 30 years of experience of early childhood education, staff management, operations planning, and financial management. Sandra has training in ASL, special-needs education, Child Family Community, and Early Childhood Education.
Sandra has spent the last 2 years working with special-needs children and young adults, and she has a life-long passion for this community. Sandra joined Beacons this winter as an instructor in our Explorer program on Tuesdays and Thursdays and helps as needed in both the Pathfinder and Explorer programs.
When Sandra is not working she enjoys surfing, yoga, playing piano, singing, and spending time with her adult children and husband Joe.
BRITNEY GUTIERREZ
Lead Instructor (PathFinder Division)
Britney brings a diverse background in education, leadership, and customer service to the Beacons team. With experience as a Site Director at the Boys & Girls Club, she has managed staff, handled budgets, and created engaging programs to meet organizational goals. Her passion for working with youth extends to her time as a Preschool Teacher at La Petite Academy, where she developed lesson plans and fostered a positive learning environment.
Britney’s expertise in leadership and problem-solving is complemented by her experience in the retail and hospitality industries, where she honed her skills in customer engagement, team management, and creative problem-solving. She holds a background in Child Development from CU Boulder - Palomar and has worked closely with children in both classroom and recreational settings.
As an Instructor in the Pathfinder Division, Britney combines her organizational skills, adaptability, and passion for education to help trainees build confidence and develop essential life and vocational skills.
J
IRENE JUAREZ, B.A. (Gerontology)
Office Manager
Irene comes to us with 28 years of Service Coordination with the San Diego Regional Center. She has been hired on as one of the two Administrative Assistants. Her favorite part about working at Beacons is interacting with the trainees and acknowledging their individualism. She enjoys the trainees conversing with her regarding how their day is going, or plans they may have. Irene feels it is very important for them to trust her so that they are comfortable conversing with her and being redirected as needed.
Irene graduated from San Diego State with a Bachelor's degree in Gerontology, During her time at the San Diego Regional Center, she volunteered, for 12 years, as the lead position with the North County Adopt-A-Family Committee, which involves organizing fundraisers to benefit selected needy clients and their families during the holiday season. She was also involved as the lead with the North County Client Wellness and Safety Committee, creating and presenting workshops on health and safety for SDRC clients.On a personal note,
Irene is originally from Texas. She and her husband, Dan, have been married for 23 years, and have an adult son, Joe. Irene is a doggy mother to two adopted, older female fur babies, Penny and Lucy. She loves music, dancing, and going to concerts. Her favorite things to do are going for walks at the beach, watching football with her husband, and gardening.
FAE JOHNSON, B.S. (Psychology)
Instructor (Studio Creative Arts Division)
Fae’s passion for disability rights and nonprofit work led them to Beacons, where they combine advocacy with creativity. A lifelong artist, Fae is excited to be part of a community that fosters artistic expression and inclusion. They hold a bachelor’s degree in psychology from California State University San Marcos and are a Certified ESL Teacher, bringing a well-rounded perspective to their work in the arts and education.
Beyond the studio, Fae enjoys community organizing, body surfing, gardening, and exploring vintage shops. They also have a love for language learning, queer culture, and live music.
K
RUTH KAIMULOA, J.D., M.A.Ed
Program Specialist (Voyager)
Ruth joined Beacons Inc. in 2024 to be of service to the disability community. Ruth has a Law Degree and a double Masters in Elementary Education and Moderate Severe Education. Ruth also has her General Education Teaching Credential as well as a Mod/Severe Teaching Credential. After working in the legal field, Ruth worked for a local tribe where she felt called to teach while working as an Administrative Assistant for the Tribal Secretary. Ruth also worked in North County as a substitute teacher and then as a paraprofessional for 5 years.
Ruth enjoys working at Beacons with other like minded individuals and helping clients to make their dreams come true. In her free time Ruth enjoys cooking, gardening, ceramics, and writing fantasy books. She writes and illustrates her own children’s books and has been working on a book called “Airabella the Fairy who Couldn’t fly”. When Ruth is not working, she cares for her older sister, explores different places to dine with her husband, or cruises Oceanside with her chihuahua Lulu.
ENID KARRENBERG, B.A. in progress
Associate Instructor (Explorer)
Enid comes from multiple years in the educational field as a teacher and trainer. She was previously employed with MAAC Association, as the Lead Kindergarten Readiness Teacher. She created Individual Service Plans , used their Creative Curriculum program, implemented special events, such as the Mommy and Me program, community garden and a recycle center. Enid has worked as a Training Supervisor for the U.S. Department of Commerce(Census Bureau) and lead a very diverse and large group of employees to exceed weekly goals. She has also worked as an Information and Referral Coordinator for the U.S. Army. Provided training for military family members, whose children were of all ages with special needs(Exceptional Family Member Program). Enid participated in the Army McGruff Safe House Program. She has an Associate Degree in Liberal Studies and will have completed her B.A. in Liberal Studies in Spring "2025".
M
MIGUEL MARTINEZ
Lead Instructor (Studio Creative Arts Division)
Miguel joined the Beacons team as a Tailored Day Specialist, but then transitioned to a Lead Instructor for Beacons' newest creative arts division - Studio Beacons - where he contributes both his vocational and artistic skills. Prior to his work at Beacons, Miguel worked in assorted leadership roles at various large businesses in the food sector.
Miguel is an accomplished artist with a love for sketching and digital art. He is also registered Behavioral Technician with a background working with individuals with Autism and building positive behavior plans to increase independence. In his spare time, he loves camping, hiking and digital art.
KENDALL MILLER, B.S. (Liberal Studies)
Assist. Director & Lead Instructor (Explorer Division)
Kendall is a San Diego native and supports Beacons as the Assistant Director for the Explorer vocational training program. Prior to joining the Beacons team, Kendall was a member of the San Diego Teach For America Corps, serving diverse and low income student populations.
Kendall taught middle school Special Education for three years within the San Diego Unified School District, primarily focusing on English and Math. Kendall graduated from Cal Poly San Luis Obispo with a BS in Liberal Studies, and a double minor in Child Development and Women's and Gender Studies. Outside of Beacons, she works as a caregiver for a family in Point Loma and spends time spoiling her cat at home. Kendall is very passionate about education and excited to share her expertise with the trainees and team at Beacons.
KAYLIN MOORE, B.A. (Psychology)
Lead Instructor (Explorer Division)
Kaylin supports Beacons' Explorer vocational division where she uses her past sales and retail skills to help Beacons' trainees develop skills for community employment. Prior to joining Beacons, Kaylin worked as an Assistant Manager at Lazy Acres, where she helped to develop sales plans, generate sales production reports, goals and strategies to reach team goals and revenue objectives. Prior to serving as an assistant manager, Kaylin worked in sales and uses her background in customer service to help shape and guide soft skills and customer service discussions to build workplace skills and confidence. Kaylin also has skills in culinary arts that supports Explorer's restaurant instruction and discussions.
Kaylin also has an instructional background in water safety and is a certified water safety instruction though the American Red Cross. She served as a swim instructor for three years prior to entering the retail sector. Kaylin is committed to helping trainees develop vocational skills and confidence to enter the workforce.
O
McKENNA O'NEIL B.A. in progress
Instructor (Studio Creative Arts Division)
McKenna brings a deep passion for person centered development and the creative arts to Beacons. With a background in Child and Human Development from California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, and continued studies at California State University San Marcos, she blends education with artistic expression to create meaningful learning experiences.
Before joining Beacons, McKenna spent several years as a kids' art camp program director and primary instructor, leading multi-media art camps and fostering creativity in young artists. She has extensive experience in classroom management, curriculum development, and ensuring an engaging and supportive environment for all learners.
McKenna’s compassionate and energetic approach makes her a valuable part of the Studio E team. Outside of work, she enjoys exploring new art techniques, connecting with her community, and inspiring others through creativity.
P
BRIANNA PHILLIPS, MA (Sociology)
Administrative Assistant & Club Beacons Administrator
Brianna is passionate about advocacy, education, and community growth, making her a perfect fit for Beacons. She earned her Master’s Degree in Sociological Practice from California State University San Marcos in 2024, equipping her with a strong foundation in social systems, advocacy, and client support.
With extensive experience in customer service, office administration, and logistics, Brianna brings a well-rounded skill set to her role, ensuring smooth operations and a welcoming environment at Beacons. Her background in prevention and education work gives her a unique perspective on assisting clients and fostering meaningful connections.
Beyond her professional expertise, Brianna is a creative spirit who enjoys expressing herself through painting, crafting, fashion, and traveling. She is excited to contribute to Beacons' ongoing growth and impact in the community.
SUZANNE PHILLIPS, MBA (International Business)
Executive Director
Suzanne joined Beacons originally to support Beacons' operational side where she supervised and handled projects relating to the financial and facility side of the nonprofit. As of September 2024, she was promoted to serve as Beacons' Executive Director.
Suzanne has her B.A. from Texas A&M University, and MBA from the University of San Diego. Suzanne has over 20 years of experience in consulting and operations, including a background in global IT (McKinsey & Company), management of client services (PricewaterhouseCoopers L.L.P.), financial reporting and research-related IT (UCSD Chemistry/Center for Aerosol Impact on Climate and Environment), and other experience through distinguished leadership positions. Suzanne also served on planned and facilitated Harvard and MIT collaborations to improve research collaborations, as well as contributed to business and project management, including grant and proposal writing, as an independent consultant.
Suzanne is passionate about serving others, and has served as treasurer of a local high school foundation, chair of the San Dieguito HS District Aquatics Committee, PTA president for Paul Ecke Central Elementary and on the Board of Directors for the Encinitas Little League. When not at Beacons or volunteering to help others, Suzanne enjoys spending time with husband and two adults sons.
CHARLES PRICE, B.S. (Psychology)
Lead Instructor (PathFinder)
Charles joins Beacons with over 20 years of experience supporting individuals with disabilities and behavioral challenges. He has a strong passion for serving his community and helping individuals build the skills they need to thrive.
Before joining Beacons, Charles worked in various educational and residential settings. He also served as a Lead Trainer and Community Liaison, working in gang prevention and mentoring youth. Charles holds a Bachelor’s and Associate’s Degree in Psychology from the University of Phoenix and brings a deep understanding of behavior management and positive communication strategies to his role.
In addition to his professional experience, Charles is an assertive communicator and dedicated leader who values active listening and engagement. Outside of work, he enjoys coaching basketball, mentoring youth, and giving back to his community. He believes that “life is not about waiting for the storms to pass, but learning how to dance in the rain.”
R
TERESA ROBERTS, B.A. (in progress), A.A. (Marketing)
Director of Human Resources & Project Inspire Lead • ACRE Certified
Teresa joins Beacons to share her insights and training skills from her prior work with a local major retailer, where she worked in human resources to onboard, train and engage teams. With an A.A. degree in marketing, and HR experience, Teresa will support the Executive Director to support daily human resources needs and our trainees in the Beacons Project Inspire division to increase their independence working onsite as Beacons employees.
Teresa is committed to working with the Beacons team to support every day HR needs and staff growth, including employees with developmental disabilities hired with the support of the SDWP Project Inspire grant.
S
KATHERINE SMITH, B.A. (Liberal Arts)
Billing Specialist
Katherine brings over 24 years of experience in bookkeeping and finance, managing financial records for her family business through diverse economic times. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for organization, she ensures financial processes run smoothly, supporting Beacons' mission to serve the community.
In addition to her financial expertise, Katherine has spent the past four years as a substitute teacher with the Valley Center Pauma Unified School District. Her background in education, paired with a Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Arts from the University of New Hampshire, has allowed her to work with students of all abilities in various subjects, from special education and life skills to dance, art, and PE.
Outside of work, Katherine enjoys silversmithing, surfing, and playing guitar. She is deeply dedicated to her family, faith, and community, and she is excited to bring her skills and passion to Beacons in a role that helps drive its mission forward.
T
JINX THOMASON, B.A. (Art)
Instructor (Studio Creative Arts Division)
Jinx joins Beacons with a passion for fostering creativity and wellness through art. As a recent graduate of CSUSM with a degree in Art, Media & Design, Jinx brings a fresh perspective on artistic expression and community engagement. Their background in hospitality, community work, and diverse art forms contributes to a mindful and motivated approach to teaching.
An avid artist, Jinx explores various mediums, including crocheting, sewing, printmaking, and drawing. When not creating, they enjoy hiking, outdoor expeditions, and studying herbalism.
V
W
KATELYN VIRAY
Instructor (Studio Creative Arts Division)
ANDI WOOLLEY, B.A. (Interdisciplinary Studies), A.A. Elementary Education, UX Design
Director & Lead Instructor (Studio Beacons) • ACRE Certified
Andi joined Beacons from Job Corps and after serving as the Assistant Director of Explorer, as of 2024 now leads Beacons' newest division Studio Beacons. Andi contributes not only her compassion for others, but also her prior experience as a Title 1 teacher, Job Corps reading instructor and Title 1 Paraprofessional. Andi has her bachelor's in Interdisciplinary Studies, a UX Design Certificate, and A.A. in Elementary Education.
Andi supports Beacons as a vocational training instructor, and helps design trainee assessments and lesson plans to enhance learning and measure progress of trainees towards their self-determined goals. Andi has taught a wide range of students for the Fremont County School District and will help Beacons continue to improve its options to meet the growing needs of those Beacons serves.
Y
PAYTON YARDLEY
Lead Instructor (Explorer)
Payton recently moved to the West Coast from Columbus, Ohio and supports Beacons as a Lead Instructor for the Explorer vocational training program. Prior to being here, Payton was a middle school history teacher at a Title I school which focused on STEM education. With this experience, she has developed a great passion for teaching real-life concepts through dynamic and engaging ways.
Payton graduated from Purdue University with a degree in Social Studies Education and a minor in Economics. Outside of Beacons, she enjoys exploring nature and prioritizes spending time with her family and friends. Payton is incredibly excited to be a member of our team and looks forward to supporting our trainees as they gain valuable vocational skills in preparation for the workforce!