Our People
Board of Directors
Steve Schneider
Founder & CEO
In the labyrinth of philanthropy, where passion meets purpose, Steve Schneider stands as a beacon of unwavering commitment. The inspiration for founding Homes 4 the Homeless was etched into his soul in the aftermath of the 2017 Tubbs fire, a cataclysmic event that stripped him of everything. It was in the ashes of personal loss that a profound understanding of homelessness took root, transforming Steve into a force driven not by opportunism but by a deep-seated empathy.
With a career marked by innovation, Steve has pioneered formulas that transcend traditional models, allowing Homes 4 the Homeless to navigate the challenging realm of shelter and affordable housing without solely relying on direct government funding.
Steve's strategic approach involves leveraging government backing, such as HUD vouchers, to guarantee investment opportunities from philanthropic investors. This visionary strategy has not only redefined the nonprofit sector but has also garnered significant attention from the investment banking community.
One remarkable accomplishment is the recent exclusive distribution contract signed with the renowned Chinese manufacturer, Vessel. This partnership signifies a groundbreaking leap in providing high-quality, affordable housing solutions to the underserved population in the United States.
A seasoned veteran of the automotive industry, Steve's legacy includes his role as CEO of ZAP, where he raised nearly $1 billion and successfully listed the company on the NYSE. His ability to identify emerging markets and disruptive technologies led to the acquisition of Jonway Automobile, the first time a foreign company purchased a controlling interest in a Chinese Automobile Manufacturing Plant.
Throughout his career, Steve has been affiliated with industry giants, having held positions with Honda, VW, Renault, Ford, Smart, and DeLorean. His contributions to the electric transportation sector have earned him recognition internationally, with personal relationships established with former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear.
At the core of this success is the mathematically sound placement of Vessel houses. This financially attractive model has not only piqued the interest of philanthropy investors but has also showcased an unprecedented return on investment. Homes 4 the Homeless is setting a precedent as one of the few nonprofits that doesn't rely on government funding but operates with the precision and acumen of seasoned business professionals.
In essence, Steve Schneider's leadership embodies a paradigm shift in community service, demonstrating that impactful change can be achieved by combining the principles of sound business with a sincere dedication to the community's well-being. As the driving force behind Homes 4 the Homeless, Steve's visionary approach is rewriting the narrative of philanthropy, making it a sustainable force for good in the lives of those who need it most.
Joe Moore
Director
Meet Joe Moore, a dedicated veteran contractor and the heart behind the building operations at Homes 4 the Homeless. As the Director of our transformative initiative, Joe brings not only a wealth of experience in construction but also a genuine passion for community service.
With a deep commitment to making a positive impact, Joe Moore is the proud owner of Joe Moore Painting and Roofing in Windsor, California. Beyond the realms of a successful contracting business, Joe has become a cornerstone of our mission to pioneer innovative housing solutions for those facing chronic homelessness.
Joe's hands-on approach and extensive experience in the construction industry make him an invaluable asset to our team. He seamlessly oversees building operations, ensuring that every modular housing unit we create meets the highest local codes and certifications. His dedication to excellence is not only reflected in the physical structures we build but also in the lasting change he strives to bring to the lives of those we serve.
Beyond the construction site, Joe Moore is known for his compassionate spirit and unwavering commitment to the community. Always ready to lend a helping hand, Joe exemplifies the ethos of Homes 4 the Homeless by actively engaging with local service providers, shelter operators, and community members to ensure the success of our projects.
In collaboration with our trusted manufacturing partners and under Joe's leadership, Homes 4 the Homeless continues to navigate the complex landscape of codes, zoning, politics, and public relations that often arise during project planning and implementation. His thoughtful design coordination, both inside and out, reflects the very essence of the communities we serve and the residents we welcome.
Joe Moore's journey with Homes 4 the Homeless goes beyond being a director; he is a partner in making a lasting difference. In the face of the homelessness crisis, Joe's passion for creating affordable and effective housing solutions shines through. His dedication ensures that no one is left behind, and together with Homes 4 the Homeless, he is rewriting the narrative on homelessness, one home at a time.
As we proudly partner with VESSEL, a trailblazing manufacturer dedicated to reshaping the world of housing, Joe Moore stands at the forefront, leading us on a mission to revolutionize the housing landscape, one VESSEL unit at a time.
Joe Moore, a compassionate leader, a seasoned contractor, and a driving force behind Homes 4 the Homeless — because everyone deserves a second chance, and Joe is here to make that belief a reality.
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Larry Jackson
Chief Legal Counsel
Meet Larry Jackson, a distinguished Board Director at Homes 4 the Homeless, whose extensive legal expertise converges with his profound commitment as a long-time loyal supporter and advocate for addressing homelessness.
Professional Legal Background: Licensed to practice in California and Indiana, Larry Jackson specializes in civil trials, bringing over 25 years of trial experience to the table. His practice spans cases involving wrongful deaths, personal injuries, automobile accidents, insurance coverage disputes, defective products, as well as commercial and probate disputes. With a national environment as his backdrop, Larry has successfully represented hundreds of consumers and businesses, showcasing superior trial and negotiation skills. Larry's commitment to his clients is evident in his personalized approach, working individually with each client and ensuring a relationship of trust.
Loyal Supporter and Homeless Advocate: Beyond the courtroom, Larry Jackson has been a stalwart supporter of Homes 4 the Homeless for many years. His unwavering commitment to our mission reflects a genuine dedication to making a positive impact on the lives of those facing homelessness. Larry's advocacy extends beyond board meetings; he actively engages with the community, raising awareness about the challenges of homelessness and championing innovative solutions.
Strategic Leadership at Homes 4 the Homeless: As a Board Director, Larry Jackson brings strategic leadership to the forefront, guiding Homes 4 the Homeless in its mission to pioneer innovative housing solutions. His legal acumen, honed through years of civil trials, proves invaluable as we navigate the complex landscape of codes, zoning, politics, and public relations inherent in our projects.
Long-Term Vision for Change: Larry's long-term support and advocacy contribute to the enduring success of Homes 4 the Homeless. His vision for change extends far beyond the boardroom, reaching into the heart of communities we serve.
Community Engagement: Larry Jackson actively participates in community events, leveraging his legal expertise to garner support for our initiatives. He understands that addressing homelessness requires a collaborative effort, and he works tirelessly to unite communities for a common goal.
Transformative Impact: Through Larry Jackson's leadership and advocacy, Homes 4 the Homeless continues to build a legacy of transformative impact. His dual role as a legal expert and a compassionate advocate symbolizes the harmonious integration of legal excellence with a profound commitment to social responsibility.
As a long-time loyal supporter, advocate, and Board Director, Larry Jackson epitomizes the spirit of Homes 4 the Homeless, reshaping lives and communities through innovative housing solutions.
H4H Team
Steve Schneider
Founder & CEO
In the labyrinth of philanthropy, where passion meets purpose, Steve Schneider stands as a beacon of unwavering commitment. The inspiration for founding Homes 4 the Homeless was etched into his soul in the aftermath of the 2017 Tubbs fire, a cataclysmic event that stripped him of everything. It was in the ashes of personal loss that a profound understanding of homelessness took root, transforming Steve into a force driven not by opportunism but by a deep-seated empathy.
With a career marked by innovation, Steve has pioneered formulas that transcend traditional models, allowing Homes 4 the Homeless to navigate the challenging realm of shelter and affordable housing without solely relying on direct government funding.
Steve's strategic approach involves leveraging government backing, such as HUD vouchers, to guarantee investment opportunities from philanthropic investors. This visionary strategy has not only redefined the nonprofit sector but has also garnered significant attention from the investment banking community.
One remarkable accomplishment is the recent exclusive distribution contract signed with the renowned Chinese manufacturer, Vessel. This partnership signifies a groundbreaking leap in providing high-quality, affordable housing solutions to the underserved population in the United States.
A seasoned veteran of the automotive industry, Steve's legacy includes his role as CEO of ZAP, where he raised nearly $1 billion and successfully listed the company on the NYSE. His ability to identify emerging markets and disruptive technologies led to the acquisition of Jonway Automobile, the first time a foreign company purchased a controlling interest in a Chinese Automobile Manufacturing Plant.
Throughout his career, Steve has been affiliated with industry giants, having held positions with Honda, VW, Renault, Ford, Smart, and DeLorean. His contributions to the electric transportation sector have earned him recognition internationally, with personal relationships established with former California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger and Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear.
At the core of this success is the mathematically sound placement of Vessel houses. This financially attractive model has not only piqued the interest of philanthropy investors but has also showcased an unprecedented return on investment. Homes 4 the Homeless is setting a precedent as one of the few nonprofits that doesn't rely on government funding but operates with the precision and acumen of seasoned business professionals.
In essence, Steve Schneider's leadership embodies a paradigm shift in community service, demonstrating that impactful change can be achieved by combining the principles of sound business with a sincere dedication to the community's well-being. As the driving force behind Homes 4 the Homeless, Steve's visionary approach is rewriting the narrative of philanthropy, making it a sustainable force for good in the lives of those who need it most.
Archie Kao
President
Archie Kao, the esteemed American actor and producer, has long been a vocal advocate for underserved communities on both sides of the Pacific. From his early years growing up in the suburbs of Alexandria, Virginia, to his successful career in Hollywood, Archie’s journey has been defined by a deep commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others.
Born in Washington, D.C., to immigrant parents from China, Archie’s upbringing instilled in him the values of compassion and resilience. While attending George Mason University, he became actively involved in philanthropic endeavors, and his heart for humanitarian work began to take shape.
Archie’s passion for supporting vulnerable communities has extended far beyond the borders of the United States. In China, he dedicated himself to building children’s educational centers in rural areas, providing access to education for those who otherwise might not have had the opportunity. Additionally, his efforts extended to designing senior centers, recognizing the importance of dignified care for the elderly.
Not content to merely lend his name to charitable causes, Archie personally immersed himself in making a difference. His involvement with children’s cancer charities, such as Make-a-Wish, showcases his hands-on approach to philanthropy. Dressed in his iconic superhero costume as the Blue Power Ranger, Archie brought smiles to the faces of young cancer patients, embodying the essence of hope and courage.
Beyond his charitable endeavors, Archie’s academic achievements and multilingual background add to his rich tapestry as a humanitarian. He speaks and understands Mandarin Chinese, having grown up in a bilingual household with two younger sisters. While comfortable conversing in English, he has also studied French for six years, reflecting his dedication to embracing diverse cultures.
As an undergraduate, Archie’s leadership shone as he was elected Student Government President and the University’s Homecoming King. He initially had plans to pursue Law School and work in politics, but destiny led him down a different path—the path of an actor with a greater purpose.
Today, as a valued board member of Homes 4 the Homeless, Archie brings his passion and experience to support our mission of Community Transformation. His steadfast dedication to creating positive change and empowering the underserved is a testament to his genuine commitment to humanitarian causes.
With humility and a compassionate heart, Archie Kao exemplifies the essence of a true humanitarian. His actions speak louder than words as he continues to build bridges between communities, inspiring others to join him in making the world a better place for all. Through his advocacy, philanthropy, and advocacy, Archie remains a beacon of hope, proving that even a small act of kindness can create ripples of change that touch lives across the globe.
Michael Loganbill
Vice President
Meet Mike Loganbill, a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience and the driving force behind our mission as the Vice President of Homes 4 the Homeless. With a rich background in advising diverse organizations, Mike brings a unique blend of expertise to the table, ranging from small startups to educational institutions, not-for-profit agencies, and publicly traded corporations.
Professional Expertise: Mike Loganbill is a strategic thinker and implementation expert, specializing in real estate initiatives and operational transitions. His extensive track record demonstrates a commitment to achieving objectives while minimizing risk. By focusing on industry-specific best practices, Mike develops strategies and tactical processes that propel organizations towards their goals.
In his most recent endeavors, Mike has been a guiding force for educational institutions and mission-based organizations. As a leader in managing day-to-day project intricacies, he ensures that every decision aligns with the overall project goals and objectives. Mike's leadership style revolves around providing meaningful engagement with stakeholders, solving problems, managing risk, and finding creative solutions that yield optimal results.
Approach and Values: Grounded in alignment with organizations' mission, vision, and values, Mike Loganbill's approach is marked by empathy and a deep understanding of clients' perspectives. Trained and licensed as both an architect and landscape architect, he brings a holistic understanding of the entire project life cycle to the table.
Volunteerism and Commitment: Beyond his professional endeavors, Mike Loganbill dedicates his time and expertise as the Acting COO and Senior Project Manager for Homes 4 the Homeless. His volunteer role exemplifies a commitment to providing innovative, transitional housing solutions for chronic homelessness in California.
Educational Background:
- Master of Business Administration, University of Notre Dame - Mendoza College of Business
- Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Insights and Recognition: Mike Loganbill's insights and contributions extend beyond his immediate roles. His involvement in projects, such as the Newark Hope Village, where shipping containers were converted to house homeless and at-risk residents, showcases his commitment to innovative solutions. (Read more: Newark Hope Village)
Jessica Gao
Director of Operations
Jessica Gao, the Director of Operations at Homes 4 the Homeless, boasts a distinguished career with a rich tapestry of experiences and achievements that extend far beyond. Her dedication to the organization's mission aligns seamlessly with her extensive background and professional journey.
Professional Journey: With a career that includes strategic leadership roles in cross-border business development, technology services engineering, advertising, marketing, and sales. Jessica’s experience is both broad and deep, demonstrated through her impactful contributions as the Head of Business Development at Tianyi Investment Group and Chief Representative at ZAP Beijing Representative Office. These roles highlight her expertise in building partnerships and facilitating cross-cultural collaborations. Jessica also played a role at Siemens, where she dedicated herself to providing IT solutions and functional advice for internal administration processes as a System Engineer. This comprehensive journey showcases her adaptability and capacity to handle multifaceted responsibilities in various industries. Â
Graduating with a Master of Business Administration in Wine Business from Sonoma State University, and earned a certificate in enology, she furthered her studies in nonprofit grant writing and research, showcasing her versatility and ability to navigate various industries. Â
Global Perspective and Multicultural Competence: Fluent in Mandarin and English, Jessica is a seasoned communicator with a multicultural background. Her well-traveled nature positions her as an effective bridge between different cultures and business environments. This proficiency enables her to liaise effectively with partners in China, contributing to the successful implementation of housing solutions.
Community Engagement and Volunteering: In her volunteer role at Homes 4 the Homeless, Jessica actively engages with Chinese partners, negotiates contracts, and participates in community projects. Her dedication extends beyond the organization, as seen in her involvement in various initiatives such as vocational training programs for underserved youth.
Key Responsibilities at Homes 4 the Homeless:Â Â As the Director of Operations, Jessica leads the organization in organizing daily operations, developing key policies and procedures, and designing complex marketing and expansion strategies. Her detailed market analysis and industry knowledge identify opportunities and drive strategies to meet the organization's goals.
Jesicca also plays a pivotal role in team building, selecting, recruiting, and training members, and collaborating with volunteers. With a team of over 50 volunteers, ranging from high-level executives to community leaders, Jessica's leadership ensures effective collaboration and project continuity.
In her role as Director of Operations, Jessica Gao brings not only years of dedicated service to Homes 4 the Homeless but also a wealth of experiences from her dynamic career. Her commitment to innovation, strategic thinking, and multicultural competence positions her as a driving force in achieving the organization's mission.
Alex Campbell
Community Development
Jason Poncia
Senior Case Manager
Meet Jason Poncia, an integral member of Homes 4 the Homeless, currently serving as an Executive Committee Member. Jason's unwavering dedication and hands-on approach make him a cornerstone in our mission to provide innovative housing solutions for those facing chronic homelessness.
Professional Journey: As the Senior Case Manager and former Procurement specialist, Jason Poncia has demonstrated exceptional commitment and loyalty to Homes 4 the Homeless. His track record speaks volumes, as he has not only been an active participant in every project but has also been instrumental in placing numerous individuals in housing and procuring vital housing vouchers. Jason's actions, more than his words, reflect his genuine care for the mission of our organization.
Hands-On Approach: Known for rolling up his sleeves and getting things done, Jason Poncia's hands-on attitude sets him apart. His commitment to the cause goes beyond titles, showcasing a genuine passion for making a difference in the lives of those experiencing homelessness.
Community Engagement: Jason's dedication to helping others extends beyond his role at Homes 4 the Homeless. With a history of pastoring a church and volunteering at Sam Jones Hall, part of Catholic Charities, he has accumulated years of experience in serving the community. His diverse background, including legal work and the development of a drive-through coffee shop, reflects a multifaceted commitment to community betterment.
Passions and Lifestyle: Outside of his philanthropic efforts, Jason Poncia is a sports enthusiast who loves skiing and embracing the outdoors. Residing in Santa Rosa with his two daughters and son, Jason's commitment to community transformation is evident not just in his professional life but also in the values he instills in his own household.
As an Executive Committee Member, Jason Poncia continues to embody the spirit of Homes 4 the Homeless — transforming lives, one housing solution at a time. His holistic and compassionate approach makes him an invaluable asset to our organization, and we are proud to have him as a driving force in our mission.
Sylvi Benevich
Case Manager
Sylvi has a background in Social Work, Disability Advocacy, and Patient Navigation. She completed an internship at NAMI in 2012, followed by a role as a Patient Navigator at Vista Family Health in 2013. She is also a California licensed insurance producer and has a passion for training her dog in service tasks.Â
As a single parent to a 17-year-old with ASD and other invisible disabilities, she serves as his full-time caregiver, case manager, and care coordinator. In addition to managing his complex needs, she is actively engaged in a community and county system where resources often exist on paper, but staffing shortages hinder access. She works directly with a wide range of social support and medical providers advocating for her son’s education, housing, mental health care, behavioral support needs, legal assistance, and disability rights.
Sylvi has always been a natural problem solver and a go-to resource for friends, family, and anyone seeking guidance. She takes pride in connecting people with the support they need, leveraging her knowledge of available resources. In her daily role, she deals with the challenges of raising a teen with significant needs while navigating an often-under-resourced system.
She believes that health—physical, mental, and spiritual—is the foundation upon which all other goals are attainable. Without basic needs being met, progress in other areas is virtually impossible. She also believes that each individual must identify their own motivators to achieve stability and well-being, which may differ from the perspectives of their care team or case manager. As a Patient Navigator, she helped individuals uncover their own drivers for change, identify barriers, and develop actionable plans to achieve their goals.
She also wants people to learn to recognize internalized stigma around their own disabilities and others’ in order to work with and around them.
Sylvi’s mission is to empower others to become self-advocates, equipping them with the resources and skills to be independent and resourceful—not reliant on others.
Michel Degive
Website Manager
Michel embarked on his career journey in his native Belgium before making a significant move to Santa Rosa, California, in 1982.
Michel spent many years as a software developer before becoming an independent web consultant, helping businesses harness the full potential of the internet. Michel retired in 2020, affording him more time to give back to the community.
Dedicating his time to various humanitarian causes, Michel initially joined the American Red Cross, contributing to fire safety projects and optimizing data management systems. He collaborated with the founders of a Haitian orphanage, crafting the lifefortheworld.com website and online donation platform. Later, Michel lent his expertise to Habitat for Humanity of Sonoma County, enhancing and maintaining the habitatsoco.org website. His commitment extended to building camposkids, a website aiding fundraising efforts for children's education in Sénégal.
In 2023, a call to action arrived for Michel. He was tasked with rebuilding the hacked website, homes4thehomeless.org, an urgent mission he willingly undertook.
Michel's passion for woodworking is another facet of his philanthropic efforts. Volunteering at the Santa Rosa Habitat ReStore, he played a pivotal role in launching the Playhouse Program, crafting playhouses for disadvantaged children.
In his home woodshop, Michel passionately designs and refurbishes furniture, with the resulting projects donated for sale at the Habitat ReStore.