Meet the Team

Executive Director

Cesar Toledo (he/him)
ctoledo@wandaalstonfoundation.org

Cesar is the Executive Director of the Wanda Alston Foundation, which provides housing and support services for DC’s homeless LGBTQ+ youth. A first-gen queer Latino, Cesar brings over a decade of experience at the intersection of politics and policy, advancing equity and social justice.

Nationally, Cesar served as Deputy National LGBTQ+ Engagement Director for the Harris for President campaign, leading the most successful LGBTQ+ mobilization program in presidential campaign history. He also served as the Political Director for the LGBTQ+ Victory Fund, where he helped elect hundreds of out LGBTQ+ candidates across the country.

Cesar also previously championed education reform in the District, served in the Peace Corps, and led issue-based campaigns for organizations that advance social impact, democracy, and immigration reform. He began his political career canvassing for local candidates in SoCal and interning for then-Lieutenant Governor Gavin Newsom.

Team


  • Donna Marie Alexander, a dedicated advocate for social justice, graduated from the University of Pittsburgh in 1981 with a bachelor’s degree in social work. In 1983, she earned a Master’s in Social Work from Howard University. She can be contacted here.

    Since 2024, Ms. Alexander has served as the Clinical Director at the Wanda Alston Foundation, overseeing trauma-informed mental health services for LGBTQ+ youth experiencing homelessness and the WAF counseling program, which centers on providing trauma-informed counseling to LGBTQ+ individuals affected by domestic, sexual, and interpersonal violence. Her advocacy work has expanded access to affirming counseling and strengthened the Foundation’s capacity to meet the complex needs of its clients.

    Her career began at Second Genesis, a residential drug treatment program, where she was promoted from Counselor to Clinical Supervisor from 1983 to 1991. She began her advocacy work in 1991 at the DC Rape Crisis Center as the Director of Counseling & Advocacy. During her 12-year tenure, Ms. Alexander initiated a 200% increase in direct services, established a graduate student program, and created a children’s counseling program, all focusing on serving marginalized communities. Her advocacy efforts continued as she collaborated with the DC Metropolitan Police to establish a system-based advocacy program for survivors of domestic and sexual violence.

    Throughout her career, Ms. Alexander has provided clinical supervision, developed new programs, and raised professional standards, encouraging her agencies to implement best practices. She has also participated in numerous volunteer endeavors, previously serving as a board member of FIST DC (Fight Injustice Standing Together), a program focused on supporting currently and formerly incarcerated women.


  • Belinda is a proud Washingtonian, a devoted mother of four, and a grandmother of one. With over 30 years of experience, she has dedicated her career to serving at-risk populations, including women with children, older adults, and seniors. Her lifelong passion for addressing homelessness continues to drive her work, and she is honored to be a part of the Wanda Alston Foundation and its mission.

  • Gabrian Francis is an Education, Employment, and Housing Specialist with extensive experience in social services, education, and advocacy. She has worked in case management, crisis intervention, multisystemic therapy (MST), and juvenile justice, including in a non-secure detention center. Gabrian has also taught ESL and Spanish at the elementary and secondary levels, supported single parents, and worked with underserved communities and asylum seekers.

    A passionate advocate for children and youth, Gabrian is committed to pursuing policy work that creates lasting, positive change within systems affecting vulnerable populations. She holds a B.A. in International Studies and Spanish from Oakwood University and is currently pursuing an M.A. in International Development Studies at George Washington University.

    In addition to her work in education and social services, Gabrian has significant experience in criminal defense, having worked with the Maryland Office of the Public Defender’s Baltimore County Juvenile Unit and the Public Defender Office of the District of Columbia. She has working proficiency in Spanish and a basic proficiency in St. Lucian Creole and is dedicated to promoting equity and community empowerment. Outside of her professional work, Gabrian is an avid traveler, an art enthusiast, and enjoys immersing herself in different cultures.

  • Motika is a dedicated social services professional with a background in community engagement, case management, and program coordination. She holds a degree in Psychology with a minor in Sociology from Frostburg State University and has over five years of experience in childcare services, helping individuals access resources, overcome barriers, and achieve their personal and career goals. Motika has worked closely with families to provide support and guidance. Outside of work, she is a loving mother to her toddler daughter.

  • Tanya James is a dedicated social services professional and mental health advocate, born and raised on the vibrant South Side of Chicago. Growing up in a city rich in culture and challenges, Tanya developed a profound understanding of the importance of community and support, which ultimately shaped her career path. She earned her Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) from Jarvis Christian University, where her passion for helping others blossomed into a lifelong commitment to service.


    Currently, Tanya is furthering her education at Texas Southern University, working towards her Master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. This academic endeavor is driven by her desire to deepen her expertise and enhance her ability to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those struggling with mental health issues.

    With nearly eight years of experience in the social services sector, Tanya has cultivated a robust skill set that includes counseling, crisis intervention, and community outreach. Her work has allowed her to connect with diverse populations, providing her with unique insights into the complexities of mental health and social challenges.

  • Courtney James is a House Monitor at the Wanda Alston Foundation, bringing over five years of experience in human services. She holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work (MSW) from the University of Denver. 

    She has built her professional career supporting children with intellectual disabilities, individuals experiencing homelessness, and youth in underserved communities. Inspired by the economic and environmental challenges she witnessed growing up, she became passionate about empowering individuals and advocating for those who find it difficult to advocate for themselves. 

    In her free time, she enjoys traveling, spending time with family, and working out. She is excited to bring her creativity and commitment to the Wanda Alston Foundation, supporting the youth to heal and strive toward their full potential.

Board of Directors

Darrin Glymph, Esq., Chairman
Steven Roth, Treasurer
Cary Kadlecek
Christopher Hartmann
Kurt Vorndran
Rebecca Lamury