Homes First Staff

Chief Executive Officer

Trudy Soucoup, MAOL

Trudy joined Homes First as Chief Executive Officer in October 2011, and began leading the organization into its third decade of creating safe, healthy, and affordable rental housing in Thurston County.

Deputy Director

Rachael Childs

Rachael joined Homes First, in March of 2023 as the Deputy Director. With more than 15 years of working in the nonprofit sector, an MA in Organizational Development (2013), and a passion for working human rights, Rachael is excited to be working with an organization that creates an impact in the community...

Director of Finance

Candace Wood, CPA

Candace joined Homes First in September of 2020 as a contractor to help support the financial stability and long term planning which will enhance our ability to provide more homes for our community.

Director of People and Culture

Jena Embry Loes, B.Ed

Jena brings her two decades of experience serving in Olympia area nonprofit organizations to her position as Director of Operations for Homes First.

Director of Programs and Assets

Ron Stewart

Ron celebrated his 20th Anniversary with Homes First in 2023. With experience in construction, renovation, and rehabilitation Ron is a stalwart at our organization, supporting the preservation of our homes and the creation of new units.

Resource Development Director

Nate Mazzuca

Nate Mazzuca joined Homes First, in January 2024 as the Resource Development Director. Nate has nearly 20 years of experience working in the nonprofit sector; developing programs, and partnerships, and overseeing meaningful work that positively impacts individuals and communities.

Finance Coordinator

Amy Sewell, MS

Amy joined Homes First in 2009 to support office operations. She has been part of many changes at the organization, and helps ensure that our finances, and the care of our tenants, stay on track.

Program Services Navigator

Jada Cerniwey

Jada joined Homes First in April of 2024, bringing her dedication to helping people and improving their quality of life to the Program Service Navigator position. With a background in public speaking and volunteer coordination, she is excited to contribute to the mission and grow her talents with Homes First.

Property Manager

Keith Garlinghouse

Keith comes to us with a broad background and skills in property maintenance work, including over 10 years' experience working with local property companies.

Executive Administrative Assistant

Jenna Brannon

Jenna joined the Homes First team in May 2023 as the Executive Administrative Assistant. Backed by a wide range of experience supporting efficient and productive office environments and a strong desire to inspire positive change in the local community.

Maintenance Coordinator

Felly Giorgianni, Jr.

Felly is a valuable member of the Homes First staff, but also worked with us for years as a skilled contractor. A former tenant, he is a leader in his faith community as well as in the Oxford House International program.

Maintenance Technician I

Carlos Calderon

My name is Carlos Calderon

I have been married to my wife Maria Calderon for 43 years and have two daughters and two grandsons. I am from San Salvador and have lived in the US for 42 years. I have 30 years of experience in building maintenance and I enjoy what I do.

Maintenance Technician I

Cedar Blue

Cedar Blue joined our maintenance team in January of 2023. Cedar was born and raised in Olympia. He comes to Homes First with a background of landscape construction and car mechanics. He states his “eyes are full of wonder, enjoys contemplating life and taking in its beauty through star-gazing, forest walks, and looking at the ocean's horizon.”

Maintenance Technician I

Tameka Brown

Tameka Brown joined Homes First in June of 2023 with a versatile background in caring for people and residences alike. She grew up helping her dad with all aspects of remodeling homes and worked as a dietary aid at a community retirement home.