Our Team
MEET OUR TEAM
Joan McGowan's dedication to early childhood development shines through her role as Assistant Director for the San Fernando Program and her oversight of Education for VOALA. With over three decades of experience in the Child Development field and a personal connection as a mother and grandmother, Joan understands the importance of supporting children's growth from birth to age 5. She emphasizes the significance of engaging parents and fostering strong family participation to achieve positive outcomes for children. Her commitment to collaboration between families and teachers reflects her belief in the power of teamwork in nurturing children's success.
Joan McGowan
Assistant Director - San Fernando Valley and Santa Clarita
Felix Cruz, VOALA's Director of Children’s Services, embodies compassion and dedication in his tenure. From a Family Advocate to Director, he's demonstrated unwavering commitment to uplift families. Felix's diverse skill set, including a Bachelor’s Degree in Liberal Studies, equips him to navigate social service complexities with empathy. As a Head Start program alumnus, he understands the power of early childhood support firsthand, fueling his passion for equitable access to resources. Leading with a focus on teamwork, Felix fosters collaboration for lasting change, aiming not only for immediate interventions but also long-term empowerment. His journey reflects a deep-rooted commitment to making a difference, ensuring brighter futures for children and families in need.
Felix Cruz
Director of Children’s Services
Dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty, I am profoundly grateful for the opportunity to serve within a program built on compassion and empowerment. We're not just colleagues; we're a tight-knit family united by a common goal. Every day, we strive to equip children and families with the tools they need to succeed in school and life. Our mission is not just a statement; it's the heartbeat of our organization. My journey from caseworker to Assistant Director has been a testament to the power of perseverance. But it's the moments spent nurturing programs like Early Head Start that truly resonate with me. Witnessing the transformative impact of our efforts fuels my determination for the road ahead. Now, as I approach two decades of service, I'm humbled by the unwavering support of my team. Together, we'll continue to champion education, empowerment, and social justice, knowing that every action we take creates profound and lasting change in the communities we serve.
Antoine Van Dam
Assistant Director - VOALA LA County
Esther Rivera's extensive tenure with Volunteers of America, Los Angeles (VOALA) demonstrates her commitment to serving the community. In her role as Assistant Director, she oversees various essential programs aimed at supporting vulnerable populations, including nearly 3000 EHS/HS children. With a background in Child Development and Educational Psychology, Esther brings a wealth of knowledge to her position. Her supervision of critical areas such as Nutrition, Health, Mental Health/Disabilities, and Youth Services reflects her dedication to holistic support for individuals and families. Additionally, her involvement in VOALA's TRIO program underscores her commitment to empowering first-generation youth to pursue higher education. Esther's leadership and expertise play a crucial role in advancing VOALA's mission to uplift and empower those in need within the Los Angeles community.