Jon is honored and humbled to serve as Executive Director – the work we do is the most important and fulfilling work he has ever been part of.

Growing up he was raised primarily by a single mother with 8 brothers and sisters. His mother worked hard to rise above the need for welfare support and earned her RN certification while raising 9 children. She taught him that he could achieve whatever he applied himself to, as long as he worked hard enough.

Years later, Jon is know for his leadership and organizational development skills. He has built many businesses throughout California ranging in size from one staff member to a team of 700. Prior to his transition to the non-profit sector, he built and opened seven restaurants in Southern California. He also founded, developed and managed Manhattan Denim in Manhattan Beach and Pure Tan in Hanford.

Jon earned his Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Management and Operations from Davenport University in Michigan and a Certificate in Nonprofit Management from the University of California, Irvine. As someone who believes that more human connection and empathy is key to greater fulfilment for all, he loves inspiring at-promise youth. In the past he has been a board member for Positive Coaching Alliance, a mentor with Junior Achievement, a Big Brother with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America, a mentor at 1736 Family Crisis Center, a mentor at the Boys and Girls Club, and an instructor at PS I Love You. Most recently he increased mission results by 50% in one year as Executive Director of Caring House.

Jon has his commercial pilot’s license, is a retired professional mountain biker, current professional beach volleyball player, has hiked the Annapurna Trail through the Himalayas, and is the father of an amazing young man named Logan. He currently sits on the Board of Directors for the Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce (Leadership Cabinet) and the Board of Directors (Youth Services Director) for the Rotary Club of Long Beach.

Stephanie joined BLAST in 2017, originally as an intern. It wasn’t long before she was formally hired as Administrative Assistant and Bookkeeper. Over five years, Ms. Valencia was consistently promoted, took on many new challenges, and received top accolades from all leadership (and anyone who knows her). After completing her Sociology Degree at CSULB, she took an opportunity to try something new.

After a 2-year period expanding her professional development, Stephanie is coming back to the BLAST family as Operations Manager. She will be using all her office management, fundraising, bookkeeping, social media, HR, operations, and team organizational skills, along with taking on new challenges and bringing the unique X-factor that she carries with her everywhere in life.

Stephanie will be a valued asset to our growing team. I look forward to working together with her and all of you to work hard, challenge each other to improve our personal and professional development, offer and award growth opportunities, promotions, and compensation increases, and most importantly, thoughtfully and lovingly serve and inspire every youth that needs our help in Long Beach.

On a personal note, Stephanie is a mother of a beautiful daughter named Lunamarie and loves to go camping, go to concerts, or be outside with family in her free time.

My Name is Orlando Umana, I am thrilled to work for Blast as a Program Supervisor.

I am a dedicated and experienced professional with over 10 years of working with children across all grade levels within expanded learning programs. Throughout my career, I’ve been passionate about creating supportive, enriching environments where students feel safe, engaged, and welcomed.

For the past 6 years, I’ve served in management roles, where I’ve led the development of impactful programs and supported the growth of program staff and students alike. My leadership focuses on building strong teams, fostering inclusive spaces, and ensuring high-quality experiences for youth of all ages.

I am very excited to continue my professional development by implement the amazing services Blast has to offer.

In my free time, I enjoy watching football, trying new coffee shops (Usually recommended by my former students), and traveling.

My name is Rebecca Sadler. I am proud to work as the Academic Mentor Supervisor at Long Beach BLAST. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Child Development with Honors in my Major from Cal State University Dominguez Hills. I received an associate’s degree in early childhood education with a focus in Special Education from Long Beach City College. Long Beach is my home, and I love the diverse neighborhoods and people here.

As a former BLAST mentor and Intern, I saw first-hand the impact our services have on not only the student being mentored, but the lasting impact on the mentors as well. I advocate for children’s rights, and I’ve spent 11 years in the education field. I bring experience from that time to working with staff and students in our community.

I am very passionate about equity in education and building trusting relationships and genuine connections. Long Beach BLAST has been finding ways to be a voice of change in the community for 25 years. I am so glad to be a part of the amazing work we do here.

When I’m not working, I love taking a walk in nature and staying active. I love listening to and finding new music. Movies are a shared passion my husband and I enjoy as well as exploring diverse culinary experiences.

Hello! My name is Alex, and I’m a Student Success Coach at BLAST dedicated to helping students reach their academic and personal goals.

I’m a first-generation Mexican American, born and raised in Long Beach. I graduated from California State University, Long Beach, and I’m proud to be the first male in my family to earn a bachelor’s degree. My goal is to help students realize their full potential and believe in themselves while creating an inclusive and supportive environment.

In my free time, I love traveling and exploring new countries, hiking, snorkeling, and going on spontaneous adventures with friends and family. One of my personal goals is to get scuba certified someday!

My name is Ashley Hernandez. I serve as a Student Success Coach at Long Beach BLAST, where I support students in reaching their academic and personal goals. My educational journey began with graduating high school and community college with honors, followed by earning my bachelor’s degree from California State University, Long Beach. I am currently pursuing my master’s degree to deepen my impact in education and continue advocating for student success.

I strive to create a welcoming and inclusive environment where students feel supported, heard, and empowered to pursue their aspirations. Whether I am helping students stay motivated, connecting them to resources, or simply being a consistent presence in their lives, I am committed to walking alongside them every step of the way.

Outside of my professional role, I am a proud mother to a joyful and energetic son. We enjoy spending time outdoors together, including hiking, attending sports events, visiting parks, and exploring creative activities. I also run a small baking business where I create custom cakes, pastries, and party favors. It is a creative outlet that brings joy to others and allows me to stay connected to my community.

My name is Logan Kenny, and I am pleased to join Blast as a Student Success Coach, dedicated to supporting high school students in achieving their academic and personal goals.

I am a Long Beach native and a graduate of Long Beach Polytechnic High School. I earned my bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Data Science. Throughout my academic and professional journey, I have sought opportunities to give back to my community. Over the past seven years, I have gained experience working as a Counselor, Assistant Site Director, and Director overseeing summer camps and after-school programs.

In my free time, I enjoy playing sports such as basketball, football, and lacrosse. I also enjoy traveling to new places, whether to hike or explore new coffee shops, often sharing these experiences with loved ones and family. My personal goal is to pursue a career in local, state, or federal government to continue making positive contributions to my communities.

Hi! My name is Belen Alvarez, and I’m excited to be Long Beach BLAST’s new Social Media Coordinator!

I’m currently a student at Rio Hondo College, and I’m thrilled for the opportunity to use my creativity to help share BLAST’s mission. In this role, I look forward to highlighting the amazing impact BLAST has on the community by sharing inspiring stories from mentors and mentees, promoting upcoming events, and celebrating the positive outcomes this organization creates.

In my free time, I enjoy baking, working on DIY projects, watching movies, and taking dance classes. I also love spending time at the beach and watching the sunset.