Stephanie booker - Founder
Stephanie holds a Masters Degree in Nonprofit Management from Eastern University and a Bachelors in Organizational Leadership. As the Founding Board Member, she has 20 years of experience as a certified HUD Landlord. Specializing in rehabilitating properties, Stephanie served as the general contractor on each project. Stephanie has worked with the Bureau of Zoning Board on numerous construction projects; has been granted variances in appeals; and pursued the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for three years to obtain 1.3 acres of land in a gentrified area in Philadelphia. Stephanie holds a Masters Degree in Nonprofit Management from Eastern University and a Bachelors in Organizational Leadership. As the Founding Board Member, she has 20 years of experience as a certified HUD Landlord. Specializing in rehabilitating properties, Stephanie served as the general contractor on each project. Stephanie has worked with the Bureau of Zoning Board on numerous construction projects; has been granted variances in appeals; and pursued the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for three years to obtain 1.3 acres of land in a gentrified area in Philadelphia. Stephanie holds a Masters Degree in Nonprofit Management from Eastern University and a Bachelors in Organizational Leadership. As the Founding Board Member, she has 20 years of experience as a certified HUD Landlord. Specializing in rehabilitating properties, Stephanie served as the general contractor on each project. Stephanie has worked with the Bureau of Zoning Board on numerous construction projects; has been granted variances in appeals; and pursued the Philadelphia Redevelopment Authority for three years to obtain 1.3 acres of land in a gentrified area in Philadelphia.
Aronda Smith - board chair
Aronda Smith holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Peirce College. She earned her master’s degree in Organizational Dynamics from the prestigious University of Pennsylvania, an Ivy League institution. During her master’s program, Aronda earned three graduate certifications in Organizational Coaching, Organizational Leadership, and Organizational Development and Change Studies.
Aronda served honorably in the United States Army, deploying in support of Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm as a medic. This experience shaped her leadership and commitment to service, which she carries forward in her personal professional life.
As the CEO of The Ivy League Coach, a coaching and consulting firm, Aronda specializes in Leadership Development, Organizational Consulting, Personal Development, and Professional Development. Her firm serves a broad spectrum of sectors, including colleges and universities, private nonprofits, and government agencies.Aronda has extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, working with organizations focused on serving veterans, ex-offenders, and addressing issues like housing and homelessness. Her work in these areas has allowed her to make a profound impact, particularly in empowering marginalized communities to create pathways to success and stability.
Aronda is also the author of the book "Appreciative Inquiry: A Strength-Based Approach to Enhance the Lives of Women Veterans", which focuses on empowering women veterans through positive, strength-based coaching. One of her proudest achievements was facilitating goal-planning workshops at an all-girls high school in Kumasi, Ghana. Additionally, for the past three years, she has hosted an annual Women’s History Month event, honoring and showcasing local women and their accomplishments.
Aronda has had the privilege of delivering keynote speeches, serving on various panels, boards, and committees, and receiving numerous accolades for her contributions to leadership, community service, and positive change.
Aronda Smith holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Peirce College. She earned her master’s degree in Organizational Dynamics from the prestigious University of Pennsylvania, an Ivy League institution. During her master’s program, Aronda earned three graduate certifications in Organizational Coaching, Organizational Leadership, and Organizational Development and Change Studies.
Aronda served honorably in the United States Army, deploying in support of Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm as a medic. This experience shaped her leadership and commitment to service, which she carries forward in her personal professional life.
As the CEO of The Ivy League Coach, a coaching and consulting firm, Aronda specializes in Leadership Development, Organizational Consulting, Personal Development, and Professional Development. Her firm serves a broad spectrum of sectors, including colleges and universities, private nonprofits, and government agencies.Aronda has extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, working with organizations focused on serving veterans, ex-offenders, and addressing issues like housing and homelessness. Her work in these areas has allowed her to make a profound impact, particularly in empowering marginalized communities to create pathways to success and stability.
Aronda is also the author of the book "Appreciative Inquiry: A Strength-Based Approach to Enhance the Lives of Women Veterans", which focuses on empowering women veterans through positive, strength-based coaching. One of her proudest achievements was facilitating goal-planning workshops at an all-girls high school in Kumasi, Ghana. Additionally, for the past three years, she has hosted an annual Women’s History Month event, honoring and showcasing local women and their accomplishments.
Aronda has had the privilege of delivering keynote speeches, serving on various panels, boards, and committees, and receiving numerous accolades for her contributions to leadership, community service, and positive change.
Aronda served honorably in the United States Army, deploying in support of Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm as a medic. This experience shaped her leadership and commitment to service, which she carries forward in her personal professional life.
As the CEO of The Ivy League Coach, a coaching and consulting firm, Aronda specializes in Leadership Development, Organizational Consulting, Personal Development, and Professional Development. Her firm serves a broad spectrum of sectors, including colleges and universities, private nonprofits, and government agencies.Aronda has extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, working with organizations focused on serving veterans, ex-offenders, and addressing issues like housing and homelessness. Her work in these areas has allowed her to make a profound impact, particularly in empowering marginalized communities to create pathways to success and stability.
Aronda is also the author of the book "Appreciative Inquiry: A Strength-Based Approach to Enhance the Lives of Women Veterans", which focuses on empowering women veterans through positive, strength-based coaching. One of her proudest achievements was facilitating goal-planning workshops at an all-girls high school in Kumasi, Ghana. Additionally, for the past three years, she has hosted an annual Women’s History Month event, honoring and showcasing local women and their accomplishments.
Aronda has had the privilege of delivering keynote speeches, serving on various panels, boards, and committees, and receiving numerous accolades for her contributions to leadership, community service, and positive change.
Aronda Smith holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Peirce College. She earned her master’s degree in Organizational Dynamics from the prestigious University of Pennsylvania, an Ivy League institution. During her master’s program, Aronda earned three graduate certifications in Organizational Coaching, Organizational Leadership, and Organizational Development and Change Studies.
Aronda served honorably in the United States Army, deploying in support of Operation Desert Shield and Desert Storm as a medic. This experience shaped her leadership and commitment to service, which she carries forward in her personal professional life.
As the CEO of The Ivy League Coach, a coaching and consulting firm, Aronda specializes in Leadership Development, Organizational Consulting, Personal Development, and Professional Development. Her firm serves a broad spectrum of sectors, including colleges and universities, private nonprofits, and government agencies.Aronda has extensive experience in nonprofit leadership, working with organizations focused on serving veterans, ex-offenders, and addressing issues like housing and homelessness. Her work in these areas has allowed her to make a profound impact, particularly in empowering marginalized communities to create pathways to success and stability.
Aronda is also the author of the book "Appreciative Inquiry: A Strength-Based Approach to Enhance the Lives of Women Veterans", which focuses on empowering women veterans through positive, strength-based coaching. One of her proudest achievements was facilitating goal-planning workshops at an all-girls high school in Kumasi, Ghana. Additionally, for the past three years, she has hosted an annual Women’s History Month event, honoring and showcasing local women and their accomplishments.
Aronda has had the privilege of delivering keynote speeches, serving on various panels, boards, and committees, and receiving numerous accolades for her contributions to leadership, community service, and positive change.
Jahi Ali-Bey
Jahi served in the army National Guards and holds Bachelor of Arts Degree in Business Management from Temple University as well as a certification in Computer Science from Bellevue University. Critical skill sets: Assessment, Listening, Leadership, Organizational, ,-level Operation Management, Business and Contract Negotiations, Quality Improvement, Communication, Community Outreach, Cost Reductions, Cross-Cultural Communications, Customer Relations, Departmental Operations Management, Distribution Management, Diverse Market Unification. Awards: Soldier of the Month, Soldier of the Year, Established Author and Publisher, Ornamental Aftermarket Wheel and Grill Designer, Certified Master Trainer, Established Inventor, Business and Credit Counselor.
Nathaniel Porter, Sr.
I try to see the positive in every situation I'm in. By being motivated and optimistic I make the impossible possible. I like to think both inside and outside the box. My role as a service officer is to navigate both Veterans and widows with the Veterans Affairs process and procedures while working as a team member with AHARI's mission statement.
Thanks to AHARI I was recognized by the city of Philadelphia with a Citation for outstanding service to veterans and widows. I also received the Veteran service officer award from the American legions. As a Navy veteran and a father of four. I have a passion for music and to change people's lives for the better. Learning about the service of fellow veterans is exciting to me. Working with AHARI our veterans have a healthy heart and healthy mind which creates a healthy community mindset atmosphere.
Thanks to AHARI I was recognized by the city of Philadelphia with a Citation for outstanding service to veterans and widows. I also received the Veteran service officer award from the American legions. As a Navy veteran and a father of four. I have a passion for music and to change people's lives for the better. Learning about the service of fellow veterans is exciting to me. Working with AHARI our veterans have a healthy heart and healthy mind which creates a healthy community mindset atmosphere.
Tauheed Browning
Tauheed is a passionate Health Care Advocate, devoted father, and inspirational mentor, committed to fostering community growth and empowering individuals. With a diverse professional background that spans across coaching, community outreach, and
entrepreneurship, Coach T has established himself as a transformative leader dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of others. As a Tennis Coach, Coach T has not only honed his skills in sports but has also utilized the game as a platform to teach valuable life lessons about discipline, teamwork, and perseverance.
His role as a Community Outreach Specialist allows him to connect with various community stakeholders, ensuring that essential health care resources are accessible to all. His entrepreneurial spirit has driven him to explore various ventures, creating opportunities that align with his vision of community advancement and well-being. A proud alumnus of Overbrook High School and attended Hampton University, Coach T’s educational foundation is complemented by extensive professional experience. He earned his Pennsylvania Real Estate Licensed from Temple’s Fox School of Business then served as a Pennsylvania Licensed Real Estate Professional and has held pivotal roles within the City of
Philadelphia, including Business Corridor Executive and Economic Development Specialist.
These positions have equipped him with a profound understanding of urban development and community needs, enabling him to advocate effectively for the resources and support necessary for sustainable growth. Known for his exceptional interpersonal skills, Coach T excels in networking and collaboration, often bringing together diverse groups to address complex challenges. His solution-oriented mindset, combined with expertise in the healthcare industry and certification in Six Sigma, ensures that he approaches problems with a strategic and results-driven perspective. His cultural competence allows him to engage meaningfully with individuals from all walks of life, fostering inclusivity and understanding.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Coach T is an avid sports enthusiast who enjoys tennis, running, and pickle-ball. He believes in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and often incorporates fitness into his daily routine. He deeply values family time and is actively involved in volunteering at his local Masjid, where he strives to uplift and serve his community. With a personal philosophy of "Carpe Diem"; Coach T embraces each day as an opportunity to make a difference—whether it’s through mentoring youth, advocating for healthcare access, or simply lending a helping hand to those in need. His unwavering commitment to community service and personal growth continues to inspire those around him to seize the moment and strive for excellence.
entrepreneurship, Coach T has established himself as a transformative leader dedicated to making a positive impact in the lives of others. As a Tennis Coach, Coach T has not only honed his skills in sports but has also utilized the game as a platform to teach valuable life lessons about discipline, teamwork, and perseverance.
His role as a Community Outreach Specialist allows him to connect with various community stakeholders, ensuring that essential health care resources are accessible to all. His entrepreneurial spirit has driven him to explore various ventures, creating opportunities that align with his vision of community advancement and well-being. A proud alumnus of Overbrook High School and attended Hampton University, Coach T’s educational foundation is complemented by extensive professional experience. He earned his Pennsylvania Real Estate Licensed from Temple’s Fox School of Business then served as a Pennsylvania Licensed Real Estate Professional and has held pivotal roles within the City of
Philadelphia, including Business Corridor Executive and Economic Development Specialist.
These positions have equipped him with a profound understanding of urban development and community needs, enabling him to advocate effectively for the resources and support necessary for sustainable growth. Known for his exceptional interpersonal skills, Coach T excels in networking and collaboration, often bringing together diverse groups to address complex challenges. His solution-oriented mindset, combined with expertise in the healthcare industry and certification in Six Sigma, ensures that he approaches problems with a strategic and results-driven perspective. His cultural competence allows him to engage meaningfully with individuals from all walks of life, fostering inclusivity and understanding.
Outside of his professional endeavors, Coach T is an avid sports enthusiast who enjoys tennis, running, and pickle-ball. He believes in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and often incorporates fitness into his daily routine. He deeply values family time and is actively involved in volunteering at his local Masjid, where he strives to uplift and serve his community. With a personal philosophy of "Carpe Diem"; Coach T embraces each day as an opportunity to make a difference—whether it’s through mentoring youth, advocating for healthcare access, or simply lending a helping hand to those in need. His unwavering commitment to community service and personal growth continues to inspire those around him to seize the moment and strive for excellence.
Advisory Board Members
Otis Nash – Advisor
Otis holds a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and an Associates Degree in Liberal Arts and has a 30-year history of outreach/incarcerated Veterans in State Prisons and County Jails. His background is in independent program development for Juvenile Criminal Justice Rehabilitation. Otis worked for the Department of Veteran Affairs and initiated the first PTSD groups in 1982-89 and created and implemented treatment for Veterans with PTSD, Chronic Homelessness, Chemically Dependent and Reentry for Incarcerated Veterans in County, State and Federal Prisons/Jails.
Otis has provided education to Federal/State Parole, PA/NJ/DE/WV Dept. of Corrections and Community Corrections Staff on an annual basis. Mr. Nash assisted with creating the National Program for Healthcare for Reentry Veterans which identified programs in DE & PA as Best Practices for Reentry. He also presented on a national level Best Practices for Reentry with National Coalition for Homeless Veterans, Dept. of VA Homeless Programs, and Readjustment Counseling Centers National Program & Behavior Health & Science National Program.
Otis holds a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and an Associates Degree in Liberal Arts and has a 30-year history of outreach/incarcerated Veterans in State Prisons and County Jails. His background is in independent program development for Juvenile Criminal Justice Rehabilitation.
Otis worked for the Department of Veteran Affairs and initiated the first PTSD groups in 1982-89 and created and implemented treatment for Veterans with PTSD, Chronic Homelessness, Chemically Dependent and Reentry for Incarcerated Veterans in County, State and Federal Prisons/Jails. Otis has provided education to Federal/State Parole, PA/NJ/DE/WV Dept. of Corrections and Community Corrections Staff on an annual basis. Additionally, Mr. Nash assisted with creating the National Program for Healthcare for Reentry Veterans which identified programs in DE & PA as Best Practices for Reentry. He also presented on a national level Best Practices for Reentry with National Coalition for Homeless Veterans, Dept. of VA Homeless Programs, and Readjustment Counseling Centers National Program & Behavior Health & Science National Program.
Otis has provided education to Federal/State Parole, PA/NJ/DE/WV Dept. of Corrections and Community Corrections Staff on an annual basis. Mr. Nash assisted with creating the National Program for Healthcare for Reentry Veterans which identified programs in DE & PA as Best Practices for Reentry. He also presented on a national level Best Practices for Reentry with National Coalition for Homeless Veterans, Dept. of VA Homeless Programs, and Readjustment Counseling Centers National Program & Behavior Health & Science National Program.
Otis holds a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and an Associates Degree in Liberal Arts and has a 30-year history of outreach/incarcerated Veterans in State Prisons and County Jails. His background is in independent program development for Juvenile Criminal Justice Rehabilitation.
Otis worked for the Department of Veteran Affairs and initiated the first PTSD groups in 1982-89 and created and implemented treatment for Veterans with PTSD, Chronic Homelessness, Chemically Dependent and Reentry for Incarcerated Veterans in County, State and Federal Prisons/Jails. Otis has provided education to Federal/State Parole, PA/NJ/DE/WV Dept. of Corrections and Community Corrections Staff on an annual basis. Additionally, Mr. Nash assisted with creating the National Program for Healthcare for Reentry Veterans which identified programs in DE & PA as Best Practices for Reentry. He also presented on a national level Best Practices for Reentry with National Coalition for Homeless Veterans, Dept. of VA Homeless Programs, and Readjustment Counseling Centers National Program & Behavior Health & Science National Program.
R. Yerodin Avent - Advisor
Yerodin holds a MS in Nonprofit Management from Eastern University DMD Honor Society, M.S. Urban Policy from New School for Social Research Woodrow Wilson Fellowship, B.A. Liberal Arts from City University of New York City College, Fellowship. He is the owner of Dofat-Avent Group Consultants - Human Development & Nonprofit Management in Baltimore, MD.
Current clients include nonprofit organizations, private and nonprofit community development corporations and individuals. Yerodin also served as program director for Fathers Care, TAPP’s federally funded fatherhood initiative in South Bronx NY. Yerodin specializes in strategic planning, program development, leadership training and coaching.
Current clients include nonprofit organizations, private and nonprofit community development corporations and individuals. Yerodin also served as program director for Fathers Care, TAPP’s federally funded fatherhood initiative in South Bronx NY. Yerodin specializes in strategic planning, program development, leadership training and coaching.
Pearl Karen Hall-Ragin | Honorary Posthumous Member
Pearl is an Author, Entrepreneur, Board Member, Evangelist, Entrepreneur and Veteran. She joined the military in 1986, serving in the Army in various Administrative roles as well as Family Support Liaison Chaplain Assistant and USAR Civilian Recruiter. She has been awarded multiple Military Achievement awards.
She is currently a continuing degree student at Dallas Baptist University. Pearl is currently employed with the Department of Homeland Security as a Mission Support Specialist. She also has experience as a Customs Technician, Local Property Officer, and Coordinator for the Combined Federal Campaign & Diversity and Inclusion Committee. Pearl is a member of Transforming Life Christian Center in Lansdowne, PA. Pearl became an author in 2020 with the release of her book, “I am your Strength”.
She is currently a continuing degree student at Dallas Baptist University. Pearl is currently employed with the Department of Homeland Security as a Mission Support Specialist. She also has experience as a Customs Technician, Local Property Officer, and Coordinator for the Combined Federal Campaign & Diversity and Inclusion Committee. Pearl is a member of Transforming Life Christian Center in Lansdowne, PA. Pearl became an author in 2020 with the release of her book, “I am your Strength”.