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

  • Ben Rosen, LICSW, is a proud, queer Texan who has spent the past six years in New York City working as a social worker in community mental health settings and as a therapist in both community health centers and private practice. He specializes in supporting individuals with serious mental illness, housing instability, and complex care needs.

    Ben previously worked with Fountain House’s OnRamps program, helping to build a new, innovative outreach program for individuals considered chronically homeless and living with serious mental illness in the Times Square area. Alongside this work, he has provided psychotherapy to diverse populations, but mostly to LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and HIV+ identified people. He strives to bring a collaborative, person-centered approach to his work, with a strong focus on dignity, pride, and most importantly, community. 


  • 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.

  • Kahlia is a proud Black queer North Carolina native who has called the DMV area home for the past five years. She brings a strong academic background, holding a Bachelor's degree in Accounting from North Carolina State University and a Master's degree in Women's, Gender, and Sexuality Studies from George Washington University.

    Beyond her professional and academic achievements, Kahlia is a creative spirit. She is a writer and the host of an indie podcast that delves into history, Black sexuality, and politics. In her free time, Kahlia enjoys axe throwing, practicing Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, hiking in warm weather, dancing, and attending live music events.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Joella Goodwine is a people person with a strong background in customer service and community relations. Over the years, she has held front desk and house monitor positions, thriving by helping others and ensuring operations run smoothly.

    For the past seven years, she has proudly served as a missionary at Greater Tyson Temple, where she continues to live out her passion for serving and uplifting those around her. Outside of her work and ministry, she's a proud mother of two wonderful children. She's known for her warm spirit, positive attitude, and love of bringing joy to others through laughter and a smile.

  • Yadiel Meléndez is piloting a new role as a Community Associate at the Wanda Alston Foundation, where they support queer and trans young people in finding their footing, building independence, and experiencing a housing community where they are seen, valued, and affirmed.

    They are coming into this role with over a decade of experience as a community organizer and operations specialist, supporting diverse communities through service, advocacy, and program coordination. With a background spanning customer service, grassroots organizing, and community outreach, Yadiel brings a strong commitment to creating safe, inclusive, and supportive environments for marginalized populations.

    Yadiel has worked across hospitality, retail operations, community programming, and nonprofit outreach roles where they developed strengths in conflict resolution, team coordination, and responsive client support. Their experience includes facilitating workshops on intersectionality and coordinating volunteers for grassroots initiatives, as well as producing and managing inclusive events in DC queer nightlife as their drag persona, Ricky Rosé. In operational roles, Yadiel has also managed logistics, documentation, training sessions, and day-to-day facility or program needs while maintaining high standards of professionalism and care.

    Fluent in Spanish and English, Yadiel is passionate about fostering community, empowering young people, and ensuring equitable access to resources. Their work is guided by a commitment to dignity, safety, and trauma-informed engagement, particularly within LGBTQ+ and BIPOC communities.

Board of Directors

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