Executive Director

Cindy Bray

Cindy established HOPE Services in 2003. She has excelled in the employment services field for a decade and a half. Cindy has personally supervised the training of every other team member to ensure that we all succeed for you.

“I am blessed to be a part of such a wonderful team and their willingness to serve others in such a way to bring joy to their lives by becoming employed. We not only find jobs, we help change lives.”

Executive Director of Operations

Dave Caldas

David has over 15 years of experience working with at-risk youth and families. He has a bachelor’s and master’s degree from the University of South Florida. David believes that by obtaining nationally recognized certifications and developing life skills our clients can not only obtain a job but find a career and independence. He has a history of leading programs that have been recognized by funders and state agencies as “Best Care Providers” for excellent services and client success.

“Some men see things as they are and say why, I dream things that never were and say, why not” — George Bernard Shaw

Senior Employment Specialist: Pasco, Hillsborough, & Polk Counties

Jason Bray

Jason’s energetic approach to employment services has created a vast network of companies who partner with HOPE Services for good jobs. His creative employment solutions have meant success for hundreds of job seekers. Jason is certified for Employment Services and Supported Employment in Hillsborough, Manatee, Polk, and Pasco Counties.

“I enjoy getting to know each client and figuring out their strengths together, matching them up with the best possible opportunity.”

Employment Specialist: Citrus, Hernando, & Pasco Counties

Jackie Flores

Jackie has made a career of teaching and advocating for people with disabilities. She is passionate about helping them grow in confidence and skill so they can take their rightful place in the workforce. Jackie is certified for Employment Services, Supported Employment, On-The-Job Training, Pre-Placement Training, and Pre-Employment Transition Services in Hillsborough, Pasco, Hernando, and Citrus Counties.

“I am blessed to be part of a company that gives hope and opportunities to people with disabilities. It is so satisfying to help others achieve their goals and realize their dreams.”

Employment Specialist: Hillsborough County

Rebecca Marquez-Goodnight

Rebecca has worked in the field helping and coordinating services for at-risk youth and adults for over 20 years. She has been working directly with and advocating for adults and youth with disabilities for almost 10 years now. She has a drive and desire to see consumers and works closely with the consumer, family, and support system in place to make sure the best services are provided and obtained. Rebecca is certified for Employment Services, Supported Employment and On-The-Job training in Hillsborough County.

“I have always wanted to work with those who are less fortunate and help them achieve their goals, in order to help them lead successful and meaningful lives”

Employment Specialist: Hillsborough & Pasco County

Debbie Keegan

With over 15 years of experience as a Master Certified Life Coach, Debbie understands that connection and communication are the foundation for successful relationships and partnerships. She has a passion for helping others, specifically those living with disabilities, and she prides herself on her steadfastness and enthusiasm for assisting them in achieving their goals . She looks forward to bringing out the best in those she will have the pleasure of getting to know and celebrating them as they grow their independence!

“Live the life you were created for, not the one you have been given.” – DK

Accounts Receivable

Lorena Little

Lorena has a true passion for helping others achieve their highest potential. Her personal experience with advocating for people with disabilities and empathetic nature allow her to connect with those she works with and assist them to fulfill their dreams. Since transitioning to Accounts Receivable, she still operates with the same heart for the business as she did as a job coach.

“I have a heart for serving and helping people. I feel very fortunate to be a part of an organization that provides me with the opportunity to help others grow and accomplish their goals.”

Office Administrator

Toyita Rivera

Toyita Rivera. Former Consular Associate with the Department of State brings 15 years of Federal Government experience working with highly diverse communities, domestically and overseas. Toyita also has an extensive background in the marketing field in which she developed a 12-year successful career in 3 countries. Toyita is bilingual and she handles our headquarters.

As Mother Teresa said, “the miracle is not that we do this work, but that we are happy to do it”.

Vocational Evaluator & LMHC

Karen Schwartz

Since 2011, I have been providing mental health and rehabilitation counseling services. I have worked with clients with anxiety, depression, coping with disabilities, trauma, career difficulties, family and marriage conflicts, etc. I believe in tailoring my sessions to the needs of my clients. I offer guidance and help clients work to improve and overcome what they are going through. I promote change through personal growth. I utilize various therapeutic techniques during sessions to help clients learn more about themselves.

“Working with people has been my passion. I am glad to have the opportunity to work with HOPE Services, where I can utilize my skills to help people reach their own potential. I want clients to know they can succeed and achieve their dreams. A dream is just a goal waiting to be achieved.”

FAAST Program Coordinator

Kaitlin Carroll-Cruz

Kaitlin has worked and volunteered her time to a multitude of nonprofit organizations over the years. Kaitlin has extensive experience working with youth and adults to help them navigate not only the legal system but some of the hardest times of their lives. Kaitlin’s passion for helping people from all walks of life has led her to Hope Services to be the FAAST Program Coordinator.

If it wasn’t hard, everyone would do it. It’s the hard that makes it great-Tom Hanks

Employment Specialist: Hillsborough, Hernando and Pasco County

Erica Leonard

From a very young age, Erica learned the importance of helping others even when you have nothing of your own to give. She believes love, compassion, empathy and kindness are traits that can make the world a better place. Erica spent 9 years in Senior Living working as an Activity Director and leading the department with over 450 residents. Her transition into Hope Services was a natural fit with the skills and mindset necessary for success. She likes to leave everyone better than she finds them and like to make a lasting impact on their lives any way she can. She loves to teach, mentor and build lasting relationships.

“Today is tomorrow’s yesterday, make it count.”

Employment Specialist: Marion and Levy Counties

Karen Baker

Karen began her career as a vocational rehabilitation counselor in 2016 for the division of blind services. After leaving blind services she worked as a vocational rehabilitation counselor in a more generalized setting. She has helped many individuals find and obtain employment in a variety of work settings by focusing on their strengths, abilities, and interests. By keeping an open mind and using a little creativity many employment goals become possible.

“Never let the fear of striking out keep you from playing the game.” —Babe Ruth

Executive Chef

Brent Belcher

Brent Belcher or Chef Brent as we know him comes to Hope Services with years of experience as an Executive Chef. Chef Brent is now the owner/operator of Essential Pizza in Land O Lakes specializing in wood-fired pizza and wings. He also has a passion for teaching and working with individuals living with disabilities and students who may have struggled in a traditional educational setting. He is excited to pass on his culinary knowledge and help launch the careers of future chefs.

Vocational Training Specialist

Yvette Flynn-Gerardi

Yvette has dedicated 15 years to the field of education and holds a Master of Educational Leadership from Saint Leo University. She began her career as a classroom teacher and then took on various roles supporting students outside of the classroom. She worked with at-risk students as a Dropout Prevention Coach and later with planning and creating a path for life after graduation as a College and Career Specialist. Yvette’s passion for guiding and inspiring others continues in her current role as a Vocational Training Specialist, where she combines her experience and dedication to helping individuals reach their full potential.

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela

Vocational Training Specialist

Ayesha Rodriguez

Ayesha has over a decade of experience in teaching and educational program management working with youth and adults. She did her undergraduate studies at the University of South Florida and holds a master’s degree in educational leadership. She is a children’s book author committed to sharing her passion for literacy and learning. Her goal is to create academically engaging learning experiences through an environment that fosters creativity, curiosity, and kindness, particularly for those who are often overlooked.
“May we ever choose the harder right instead of the easier wrong.” – Thomas S. Monson