
A Message From CEO Nishtha Mohendra
"Friendship Shelter is powered by its people and accountable to the community it serves. I am honored to lead Friendship Shelter at a time when innovative, compassionate solutions are more important than ever.
Our mission is clear: to ensure that every individual experiencing homelessness in our community has access to safe, stable housing and the support they need to thrive. As CEO, I will focus on strengthening the organization’s sustainability, expanding prevention and housing pathways, and deepening community partnerships. Together with our dedicated team and valued partners, we will build on Friendship Shelter’s strong legacy while advancing impactful, data-driven solutions that create lasting change for Orange County community members in need."
Meet the Leadership Team

Rick Scott
Chief Operating Officer

Stephania Ines Amezcua
Director of Finance

Analisa Andrus
Director of Program Development & Compliance

Marie Azad
Associate Director of Services

Melissa Salazar
Associate Director of Human Resources

Michael Fotion
Director of Services
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Cierra Williams
Associate Director of Services
Board of Directors
Michael Gamerl
President
Christy Cornwall
Vice President
Tom Salinger
Secretary
Cameron Jalbert
Treasurer
Wendy Aird
Doug Anderson
Lisa Bartlett
Mark Davis
Andrew Gerken, MD
Vincent M. Jenkins
Edson McClellan
Ilene Munzinger
Teddie Ray
Roge Rupp
Cindy Shopoff
Shaena Stabler
Dee Dee Towery
