Delivering holistic support to San Francisco's unhoused residents by meeting immediate needs and connecting them with resources that foster long-term stability. Through dedicated research, we also develop innovative solutions to create lasting, sustainable impact.
Benya Vishnevetski is the Chief Executive Officer of Valliant Foundation. With an extensive background in community organizing, Benya brings an empathetic approach to his leadership, focused on developing actionable support plans that are deeply attuned to the unique challenges that the unhomed population faces. He will ensure that the fo
Benya Vishnevetski is the Chief Executive Officer of Valliant Foundation. With an extensive background in community organizing, Benya brings an empathetic approach to his leadership, focused on developing actionable support plans that are deeply attuned to the unique challenges that the unhomed population faces. He will ensure that the foundation’s efforts are not only strategic but also deeply compassionate. Benya’s vision for Valliant Foundation is to center unhomed peoples’ lived experiences and challenges in society through increasing public awareness of the root causes of homelessness in San Francisco.
Benya’s leadership is characterized by his hands-on experience in social activism and community engagement. He has founded and led multiple humanitarian organizations, including the Watchung Hills Ukraine Support Initiative and the Wanderlust For Life fundraising campaign for St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital. His volunteer work with institutions, including the Buffalo Field Campaign, Learn To Be, and Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly, underscores his commitment to making a tangible difference. As CEO, Benya is dedicated to steering Valliant Foundation towards impactful, sustainable change for the betterment of life for the unhoused of San Francisco.
Benya is a highly accomplished Tau Sigma Honors student at Rutgers University - New Brunswick, double majoring in Geography and Environmental Studies. His research on the assertion of tribal co-stewardship in the Great Plains, bison conservation, and political and economic perspectives on interspecies disease transmission earned him the MaGrann Field Research Award. Additionally, Benya has achieved certificates in nonprofit essentials, financial management, marketing foundations, fundraising essentials, grant-seeking essentials, and Spanish language proficiency. His comprehensive education has provided Benya with a unique, holistic perspective on socioeconomic issues.
Ever since I can remember, I’ve felt a strong desire to help others. Whether it's providing for others, being kind to strangers, or supporting someone through a hard time, I always strive to make a difference. One way I contribute to my community is by volunteering for the Red Cross as a blood donor ambassador, where I work to ensure dono
Ever since I can remember, I’ve felt a strong desire to help others. Whether it's providing for others, being kind to strangers, or supporting someone through a hard time, I always strive to make a difference. One way I contribute to my community is by volunteering for the Red Cross as a blood donor ambassador, where I work to ensure donors feel safe and comfortable while giving blood for organizations and hospitals in need. I also volunteer for the Crisis Text Line, offering support to those experiencing a mental health crisis. My personal goal within Valliant Foundation is to provide both medical referrals and mental support to the homeless in my community. In the long run, I hope this experience will help me one day become not just a good doctor, but a great one, allowing me to help those who truly need it.
As the founder of Sarah Valliant Equestrian, a nonprofit providing free horse lessons to children with disabilities, she managed 5 horses, coordinated 15 volunteers, and oversaw 3 employees. This experience honed essential skills for running an effective nonprofit. Since 2022, Sarah has been an EMT, gaining firsthand experience working wi
As the founder of Sarah Valliant Equestrian, a nonprofit providing free horse lessons to children with disabilities, she managed 5 horses, coordinated 15 volunteers, and oversaw 3 employees. This experience honed essential skills for running an effective nonprofit. Since 2022, Sarah has been an EMT, gaining firsthand experience working with homeless individuals in San Francisco. Additionally, her work as a suicide hotline counselor for San Francisco Suicide Prevention and the 988 Lifeline involved active listening and crisis descalation, as she got to peer into the lives of the diverse population of San Francisco. Her dedication to the community, demonstrated through her various leadership roles such as Student Body President (2018) and President of her dormitory, and commitment to her studies at San Francisco State University, makes her exceptionally well-suited to lead Valliant Foundation in its mission to support and uplift the homeless population in San Francisco.
Nathan is a third year psychology major with a minor in management. With a key eye for problem-solving and figuring out solutions. With aspirations of going to get his masters in business management. He likes to hangout with friends and family and be a traveler, as well as helping others any chance possible.
Spencer Rava is an undergrad at the University of Oregon, majoring in General Social Sciences with a focus in Crime, Law, and Society. Spencer worked in a research capacity for the nonprofit Questbridge, working on innovative ideas to help bring low-income high-achieving high school students to top colleges in the United States on full-ri
Spencer Rava is an undergrad at the University of Oregon, majoring in General Social Sciences with a focus in Crime, Law, and Society. Spencer worked in a research capacity for the nonprofit Questbridge, working on innovative ideas to help bring low-income high-achieving high school students to top colleges in the United States on full-ride scholarships. He has worked on various research projects for upper-division classes in subjects related to the mission of Valliant Foundation, primarily in Sociology and Psychology. As research director for Valliant Foundation, Spencer plans on conducting ethical research through a sociological lens. By analyzing real-world data collected by Valliant Foundation, he plans on assessing and informing current intervention strategies, as well as providing information and education to the wider community to reduce stigmas surrounding homelessness as a whole.
Sean Velasquez is the Operations Supervisor. Sean will be overseeing the fundraising activities as well as lead groups of volunteers into homeless encampments and coordinate specific locations around the city with high homeless rates. With a background in supervision, volunteering, and hands-on instruction, Sean is well suited to the role
Sean Velasquez is the Operations Supervisor. Sean will be overseeing the fundraising activities as well as lead groups of volunteers into homeless encampments and coordinate specific locations around the city with high homeless rates. With a background in supervision, volunteering, and hands-on instruction, Sean is well suited to the role. As an instructor, he’s had the privilege of teaching welding, plumbing, and electrician skills to both adults and youth, which allowed for development of their skills and growth. He will use these experiences to help support the unhoused by providing them with supply bags, mental services, as well as career support. He has had experience working as a fundraiser during his time in Scouts of America teaching him about managing the funds and being transparent with the donors. The fulfillment he’s found in these roles, particularly in guiding and supporting others, aligns perfectly with the responsibilities of an Operations Supervisor at Valliant Foundation.
As a Bay Area Native, Melissa has seen at first hand the effects of the homeless community in San Francisco. Her experiences have culminated into dedication and commitment to helping the homeless population. For most of high school, she was part of the Students in Action program where the focus was aiding underprivileged families in her
As a Bay Area Native, Melissa has seen at first hand the effects of the homeless community in San Francisco. Her experiences have culminated into dedication and commitment to helping the homeless population. For most of high school, she was part of the Students in Action program where the focus was aiding underprivileged families in her community. Her hours of participation there have resulted in fundraising, research, collaborating, and leadership experience. She hopes to use her skills to conduct preliminary scientific research, draft and edit research proposals to support the foundation's initiatives and goals. She will also manage media relations, like contacting media outlets to gain publicity for the organization. She will oversee social media pages to grow a community of individuals dedicated to the best interest and benefit of the homeless community. She is looking forward to working with Valliant Foundation to bring awareness to the cause at hand. Melissa is loyal to Valliant Foundation’s mission and hopes to make a change, whether it’s big or small. She is grateful for the privilege she has been given, the ability to make change in the world.
As a Bay Area Native, Melissa has seen at first hand the effects of the homeless community in San Francisco. Her experiences have culminated into dedication and commitment to helping the homeless population. For most of high school, she was part of the Students in Action program where the focus was aiding underprivileged families in her
As a Bay Area Native, Melissa has seen at first hand the effects of the homeless community in San Francisco. Her experiences have culminated into dedication and commitment to helping the homeless population. For most of high school, she was part of the Students in Action program where the focus was aiding underprivileged families in her community. Her hours of participation there have resulted in fundraising, research, collaborating, and leadership experience. She hopes to use her skills to conduct preliminary scientific research, draft and edit research proposals to support the foundation's initiatives and goals. She will also manage media relations, like contacting media outlets to gain publicity for the organization. She will oversee social media pages to grow a community of individuals dedicated to the best interest and benefit of the homeless community. She is looking forward to working with Valliant Foundation to bring awareness to the cause at hand. Melissa is loyal to Valliant Foundation’s mission and hopes to make a change, whether it’s big or small. She is grateful for the privilege she has been given, the ability to make change in the world.
Anthony Ray is passionate about making a difference through strategic communication and community engagement. With a background in nursing and a bachelor's degree in business healthcare, Anthony combines empathy with business acumen in his role at Valliant Foundation. His experience in sales, marketing, and recruitment has equipped him to
Anthony Ray is passionate about making a difference through strategic communication and community engagement. With a background in nursing and a bachelor's degree in business healthcare, Anthony combines empathy with business acumen in his role at Valliant Foundation. His experience in sales, marketing, and recruitment has equipped him to connect with diverse audiences and build strong relationships.
Outside of his professional work, Anthony leads "Ray of Sunshine," a personal brand dedicated to spreading love, positivity, and mental health awareness. Through creative content and coaching, he empowers individuals to overcome social anxiety and build confidence. Anthony’s dedication to mental health advocacy and his innovative approach to outreach make him a valuable asset to the nonprofit sector.
Miranda is a Research Associate at Valliant Foundation. Recently, she served as a project manager, leading primary research efforts for a mental health app aimed at enhancing user impact. She is eager to deepen her research expertise and contribute to positive change in her local community.
Ivan Sapozhnikov is a former Machine learning intern at AbbVie and Analyst at the startup Vantage risk. Ivan has a passion for providing data driven insights wherever he goes by utilizing his programming background. He is currently a junior at Northeastern University studying Math and Economics with a passion for impactful research like that done at Valliant foundation.
Hi, my name is Jessi! Ever since I was kid I have always wanted to leave a positive impact on other people's lives. I feel that one of the most important things an individual can do is contribute to their community and support others when they have the means to do so, and that is why I am motivated to be a part of this team. Having a kind
Hi, my name is Jessi! Ever since I was kid I have always wanted to leave a positive impact on other people's lives. I feel that one of the most important things an individual can do is contribute to their community and support others when they have the means to do so, and that is why I am motivated to be a part of this team. Having a kind and open heart is one of the best features a person can have, and I believe that is what has brought me down this path. This foundation’s mission aligns with my passion for creating meaningful connections and differences by fostering a collaborative and compassionate environment. I'm excited to be part of such an uplifting organization that focuses on helping those in need and raising awareness to reach and influence others. I hope to use my past experiences in fundraising, donating, and volunteering with hospital activities for the better purpose of serving the people of this community through hands-on outreach opportunities.
My name is Sofia, and I’m so glad to have the opportunity to work with the Valliant Foundation! I’ve never volunteered anywhere before, so I’m excited to finally start making a difference in my community. As someone who aspires to be a physician and loves to help those in need, the kind of volunteer work that Valliant carries out aligns p
My name is Sofia, and I’m so glad to have the opportunity to work with the Valliant Foundation! I’ve never volunteered anywhere before, so I’m excited to finally start making a difference in my community. As someone who aspires to be a physician and loves to help those in need, the kind of volunteer work that Valliant carries out aligns perfectly with my interests. I also look forward to assisting with fundraising so that we have the resources we need to continue our mission. I believe that everyone deserves to have a good quality of life, and I’m determined to ensure that everyone does alongside Valliant.
Camille Gerolymatos:
Camille has a bachelor degree in Child and Adolescent Development from San Francisco State University with a minor in Special Education and is currently studying towards a Master's in philosophy.
When out in the community, she conducts herself through one simple mantra: if you see someone in need and know you are able
Camille Gerolymatos:
Camille has a bachelor degree in Child and Adolescent Development from San Francisco State University with a minor in Special Education and is currently studying towards a Master's in philosophy.
When out in the community, she conducts herself through one simple mantra: if you see someone in need and know you are able to help in any way possible, even if it's the smallest amount, do you're best because you don't know if anyone else around is able to.
Camille Gerolymatos:
Camille has a bachelor degree in Child and Adolescent Development from San Francisco State University with a minor in Special Education and is currently studying towards a Master's in philosophy.
When out in the community, she conducts herself through one simple mantra: if you see someone in need and know you are able
Camille Gerolymatos:
Camille has a bachelor degree in Child and Adolescent Development from San Francisco State University with a minor in Special Education and is currently studying towards a Master's in philosophy.
When out in the community, she conducts herself through one simple mantra: if you see someone in need and know you are able to help in any way possible, even if it's the smallest amount, do you're best because you don't know if anyone else around is able to.
Another pillar of Valliant Foundation is advancing the scientific community through research. By studying factors that lead individuals to experience homelessness, we can reduce stigma and formulate preventative strategies.
