Staff

Executive Director Dara Cerwonka started with Operation Jump Start in September 2004. After graduating from Providence College, she received her Master's degree in Social Work from Stony Brook University on Long Island, New York. Since then, she has worked for numerous organizations designing and implementing health and human service programs for the community. Among her experience, Dara served as Executive Director of an organization serving women and families on Long Island.

Case-Manager Samantha Lang joined Operation Jump Start in June 2007. She is responsible for identifying the incoming students and recruiting the mentors for the program. She also manages the progress and performance of Operation Jump Start students and the student-mentor teams. In addition to this, she plans and coordinates the educational workshops, cultural activities, community service events and social activities each semester. Prior to working with Operation Jump Start, Samantha worked for 3 years with a non-profit organization serving foster youth in Orange County. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from University of California, Santa Cruz.

Program Coordinator Noreen Cruz joined Operation Jump Start in June 2007. Noreen is primarily responsible for the development of new programs for our mentored students. Partnering with the Development Coordinator, she plans and coordinates all fundraising events which include the annual Scholar’s Day Celebration and the prominent Holiday Gallery of Trees. In addition, she works closely with the Executive Director to establish collaboratives with other youth-oriented organizations. Noreen earned her Bachelor's Degree in Human Development with a minor in Psychology from California State University, Long Beach.

Development Coordinator Jhofelle Estrada joined Operation Jump Start in May 2008. Jhofelle is responsible for acquiring resources to support program operations. She also plans and coordinates all fundraising events in cooperation with the Program Coordinator. Furthermore, she works with the Executive Director to maintain and establish donor relationships. Jhofelle received her Master’s degree in Public Administration from California State University, Dominguez Hills.

Program Assistant Mayra Alvarez joined Operation Jump Start in April 2007. Mayra is responsible for assisting with the case-management functions of the organization and providing Spanish-language translation as needed. She also works closely with the Program Coordinator on new initiatives. Mayra earned her Bachelor’s in Sociology for California State University- Los Angeles. Mayra is also a graduate of the OJS College-Access Mentoring Program!