Years ago, Austin had the unique experience of going through and graduating from our program as a resident himself. When Heartlight impacted his own life in such a massive way, he instantly knew he wanted to return as a staff member one day. He says, “Some of the most impactful and life-altering conversations I had were with my house staff, and if someone was willing to give up a year of their life to try and save mine, I owed it to the next kid to come back and try to do that for them.” An Eagle Scout, Austin joined us again from Los Angeles, California where he grew up fishing, skateboarding, building cars, camping, off-roading, scuba diving, video games, and much more.

Coming from Kingsburg, California, Lauren (known as Lo around campus) joined our team at Heartlight after hearing about us from a past Heartlight employee. She studied sociology with an emphasis in social work at Grand Canyon University in Phoenix, Arizona. Lo has spent time working in children’s ministry, respite care, and a non-profit Christian kid’s camp. Right before starting at Heartlight, she traveled to New Zealand doing mission work to spread the gospel to unbelievers. Growing up in a difficult situation, she has a heart to provide a helping hand to those who have dealt with similar situations. She loves to sing, swim, hammock, and play video games. She shows constant love and compassion to those around her and strives to always have a mindset of understanding.

Allison, affectionately known as Ally, was working as a preschool teacher and behavioral therapist before starting with Heartlight. She studied early childhood education and applied behavior analysis at Arizona Western College. Ally has great experience with kids as she has worked with kids on the autism spectrum, tutored middle schoolers, and taught preschool for over 5 years. Ally brings a smile to anyone around her and is constantly trying to make an impact on teens by offering them unconditional love, support, and encouragement. She loves to read, exercise, listen to music, and explore the outdoors.

Jerrod came to us from Lindale, Texas. Jerrod studied psychology at the University of Texas at Tyler and knew he wanted to make a difference. He felt called to help guide the younger generations off the wrong path in life and help them navigate the world we see today. Whether it is trash runs, moving furniture, or helping de-escalate a situation between two teens, Jerrod is always willing to step up and help with whatever is going on. He loves watching teens change the family dynamic and reunify with their families. In his free time, Jerrod loves going to the gym, playing sports, and taking walks.

Keelin was born and raised right here in East Texas, growing up in White Oak. Keelin has had a heart for youth for a long time and was previously a youth leader at a small congregation in his hometown. He is currently working on his associate in counseling at Kilgore College in hopes of becoming a licensed counselor. Keelin’s “go with the flow” personality has allowed him to not only connect with the kids, but other staff. He provides a listening ear to anyone who needs it and wants to show the kids that they are loved, no matter the decisions they have made. Keelin says he’s just an “ordinary person serving an extraordinary God.”

Growing up on a farm, JC comes from the small town of Cisca, Illinois. JC graduated from Southern Illinois University with a bachelor’s in psychology and immediately started working at Heartlight. His easy-going nature allows him to connect with the boys and develop deep relationships. JC has a passion for helping those struggling with mental health issues and wants to be there for those who aren’t able to help themselves. He loves music, horseback riding, video games, and reading. JC keeps it cool and lighthearted and can always crack a joke even when circumstances might seem tense.

From Macon, Georgia, Eden will light up a room with her smile. Eden majored in criminal justice at Georgia College in Milledgeville and went to work as a behavioral specialist. She desired the opportunity to work with an organization that centered around God, thus she discovered Heartlight. Eden loves photography, roller-skating, and hanging out with friends. She has a talent to make the girls feel valued and heard when they live with her in-house. She is very outgoing and energetic and will always be down to go on an adventure.

Coming to us from Denton, Texas, Lilly has been a great addition to our Heartlight Family. Lilly has always loved volunteering for her church through VBS, mission trips, and other activities where she was able to interact with the youth group. She believes that coming to Heartlight has given her a chance to start a career in ministry full-time. Lilly’s life experiences allow her to connect with the kids and truly understand where they might be coming from. She has an excellent work ethic and strives to be the best example she can be for those around her.

Maegan came to us from Waco, Texas with a servant’s heart. Maegan’s passion has always been to make a direct impact on the lives of kids. Before joining our team at Heartlight, Maegan was a special education aide at Waco ISD but knew the Lord was calling her to something more. At Heartlight, our goal is always to “be the person you needed when you were younger” and that’s exactly what Maegan strives to live by. Maegan has worked with kids not only in the school system but also at summer camps and after-school programs. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, kayaking, and playing tennis.