The Delta Project is committed to amplifying the stories of students involved in the Juvenile justice system.

Executive Director & Co-Founder

Cole is a motivational speaker, fatherhood consultant, facilitator, and the Founder of “Cole Speaks”. His background includes the creation and leadership of programs that work to empower and restore relationships between boys and men of color. Most importantly, Cole is a father to seven sons.

Co-Founder

Joel’s professional background is in communications, public relations, digital media and design thinking and he is passionate about helping channel ideas into reality. In 2020 he left his corporate job to dedicate his time to drive the vision of The Delta Project, ensuring its sustainability into the future.

Co-Founder

Eric is a founding partner at Gorilla, a nationally recognized creative studio focused on human centered storytelling. His passion for the Delta Project is inspired by his four boys: three adopted and one biological. He is compelled to see the world through their eyes–a lens which has revealed vast inequalities, and which inspires him to advocate for issues of equality.

Accountant

WHY: To model positive attitudes and actions, so that others are influenced to shift their mindset, make impact, and thrive.

BIO: Mariel is a Grand Rapids, Michigan native who is passionate about using his expertise to support businesses and entrepreneurs. With more than 10 years of accounting experience, he believes in being a forever student which has contributed to his personal development and positive impact supporting others and creating equity.

Youth Program Facilitator

WHY: To consistently show up with authenticity and care for adults in training, so that they can become the best versions of themselves and make meaningful contributions to society.

BIO: Ms. Shanda is an educator, master facilitator, and youth program consultant. Her professional background includes executing and facilitating programs and/or workshops that empower Adults-in-Training (AiTs) from a holistic perspective. 

Content Strategist, Media Room Director

WHY: To treat others with kindness and recognize their humanity, so that the world becomes a better place where other people’s circumstances are appreciated and improved upon.

BIO: Caton Vance, founder of his own creative agency, blends extensive experience in digital marketing with a knack for storytelling to create impactful brand narratives. As a prolific producer, podcaster, marketer, and writer, Caton brings a rich perspective to his work. When he's not leading his team, he's a dedicated father, often found reading his latest book or enjoying time with his kids.

Creative & Media Specialist

WHY: To use compassion and storytelling to understand where other people are coming from, so that they can contribute to their own well-being and find value in themselves and in their community.

BIO: David is a Creative Director with more than 12 years of experience in visual storytelling. He possesses a keen eye for concepts, strong creative vision, and strategic mindset. A father of two boys, David is dedicated to building a future they can be proud of.

Program Mentor

WHY: To connect and provide affirmation to people who need my support, so that they’re better able to follow the dreams of their choosing.  

BIO: As a poet, speaker, mentor, advocate, and college student, Bilal's story is one of triumph over adversity. Having spent the majority of his teenage years incarcerated, he understands the challenges faced by youth in similar circumstances. He works tirelessly to empower others to find their voices, embrace their strengths, and rewrite their own narratives.

Administrative Operations Manager

WHY: To maximize our resources sustainably, so a little can really have a big impact!

BIO: Renee Odle is a strategic leader with expertise in business development, operations management, and process optimization. With experience across global firms and startups, she specializes in designing scalable systems, improving workflows, and implementing strategies that drive long-term growth.

Program Mentor

WHY: To provide resources, mentorship, and opportunities to help young individuals find their purpose, so that they can develop new skills, and transform their lives.

BIO: As a business owner, fashion designer, speaker, mentor and college student, Nick’s story is a testament to resilience and transformation. Having experienced firsthand the challenges of poverty and spending most of his teenage years incarcerated, he deeply relates to the struggles youth face today. Now, he is committed to helping others break cycles, discover their passions, and create meaningful futures, showing young people that they, too, can build something meaningful from their struggles.

Administrative Assistant

WHY: To lead with compassion, organization, and purpose because every young person deserves to feel seen, supported, and understood — not just in words, but through how systems respond to them.

BIO: Amia Hall combines servant leadership with a strong presence and attention to detail. With a commitment to justice-involved youth and those facing mental health challenges, she ensures daily operations run smoothly through clarity, coordination, and care. Grounded in trauma-informed practices, Amia believes in showing up with consistency and empathy, helping to reimagine how we support youth and families.

President

Vice President

Secretary

Treasurer