Our Team
We come from lots of background, but we share one goal:
increasing access to the conditions necessary for mental health in our community.
About Me
I come to this role with a background spanning non-profit community work, higher ed, and HR leadership with an interest in helping people and systems work a little better together.
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
The love, transformation, and healing that our programs foster through genuine, human connection.
Best advice I’ve received
Much of the best advice I’ve received is hard to put into words. There are so many people in my life whose actions have taught me the most.
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
This is a great environment in which to learn, grow, and serve. Curiosity and adaptability go far here!
My hidden talent
I have a decent jump shot.
About Me
I’m from a small town close to Sherman, TX and have developed a passion for my work in mental health and substance abuse. My own personal experiences make this work natural. My life today and devotion to helping others is what gives me purpose. I enjoy reading any book and watching true crime documentaries. I am surrounded by support and love and I am incredibly thankful for this opportunity to be a part of this team.
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
The motivation to help others find a healthy path toward Recovery.
Best advice I’ve received
“Be present in each moment.”
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
I encourage everyone who has a passion for helping others and has the personal experience to join! Our experiences and knowledge is important to the recovery community.
My hidden talent
I don’t think I have one!
About Me
Originally from Monterrey, Nuevo León, I am a mother of four, a wife, and a professional with over 20 years of experience in finance. I enjoy working and contributing my knowledge to worthy causes. I cherish spending my free time with my family.
Originaria de Monterrey, N.L. Madre de 4 hijos, esposa y profesionista con mas de 20 años de experiencia en finanzas. Disfruto de trabajar y aportar con mis conocimienros a buenas causas. Disfruto mi tiempo libre con mi familia.
Originaria de Monterrey, N.L. Madre de 4 hijos, esposa y profesionista con mas de 20 años de experiencia en finanzas. Disfruto de trabajar y aportar con mis conocimienros a buenas causas. Disfruto mi tiempo libre con mi familia.
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
I am motivated by feeling useful, contributing my work to achieve goals, and I enjoy my work and contributing ideas that benefit the organization.
Me motiva sentirme util, aportar mi trabajo para cumplir objetivos y disfruto de mi trabajo y aportar ideas que beneficien a la organizacion.
Me motiva sentirme util, aportar mi trabajo para cumplir objetivos y disfruto de mi trabajo y aportar ideas que beneficien a la organizacion.
Best advice I’ve received
Never underestimate a person who has nothing to lose, because when they lost everything, they also lost their fear.
Nunca subestimes a una persona que no tiene nada que perder, porque cuando perdiò todo, también perdió el miedo.
Nunca subestimes a una persona que no tiene nada que perder, porque cuando perdiò todo, también perdió el miedo.
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
The effort you make every day will be reflected in the benefit to our communities.
El esfuerzo que tu hagas dia a dia se verá reflejado en el beneficio a nuestras comunidades.
El esfuerzo que tu hagas dia a dia se verá reflejado en el beneficio a nuestras comunidades.
My hidden talent
Wood sign designs and expert in 80s music.
About Me
I’m a mental Health Peer Specialist and Recovery Support Peer Specialist. I like to inspire and encourage and support others to achieve their goals. I like to show people that shared laughter and heart can take you further than one could ever imagine.
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
I can be me!!!!
Best advice I’ve received
The Board Room looks like me today.
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Come with an open heart, a willingness to learn, and a passion for helping others. Bring your energy, empathy, and commitment and you’ll make a difference here!!!
My hidden talent
Eric Estrada
Executive Director
Quick facts
Started:
2014
Joined:
As a volunteer
Lives in:
San Antonio, TX
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
That people are exactly themselves around here
Best advice I’ve received
Someone recommended that I move away for a period of time for personal and professional growth, and then come back. It was a great decision!
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Get started! We have a variety of programs and communities–just join one
My hidden talent
My ability to play Dr. Mario on the original Nintendo
About Me
“Josh Green has worked at Form Communities as the Program Manager of PeerForce since 2021. His primary responsibilities include managing relationships with state, nonprofit, and university partners that support the Texas peer-ecosystem, and developing strategies to help scale the peer workforce in Texas. Prior to joining Form, Josh spent over 6 years working in the Peer Support space, leading efforts to create peer services across the substance use and mental health fields at the organizational, community, and state levels. Josh has worked in youth, adult, nonprofit, and for profit treatment organizations, and has been in long-term recovery since 2013. “
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
The personal satisfaction from the work we do, and the people I get to work alongside. My work here allows me to feel like I have contributed to something important, and grow professionally along the way.
Best advice I’ve received
When being trained as a Peer Specialist, a coworker told me “They don’t care what you know until they know that you care”.
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
I would encourage anyone interested in working at Form to look at our organizations values and see if/how they are present in their personal life. I would also suggest reaching out and volunteering in the clubhouse program to see what those values look like in practice.
My hidden talent
I would perform a mistake-filled cover of the guitar solo from the ending of the movie “Crossroads”.
Peter McClain
Managing Director of Finance and Operations
Quick facts
Started:
2019
Joined:
As staff
Lives in:
San Antonio Medical Center
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
The warmth and camaraderie of friendships among the community, the flexibility and courage of the organization to try new things and collaborate in pursuit of our mission.
Best advice I’ve received
Everything in moderation
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Be yourself genuinely, engage with others sincerely, be willing to try new things in new spaces with new approaches to your work and be open to change as new ways of doing things present themselves
My hidden talent
Minot Pratt
Finance Specialist
Quick facts
Started:
2005
Joined:
As a volunteer
Lives in:
Timberwood Park
About Me
Graduate of Southern Methodist University – Been an owner/partner in various entrepreneurial business which include: Car Dealership, Commercial Real Estate, Manufacturing, and Franchises
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
The Culture
Best advice I’ve received
Understand what is expected of you
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Make sure you are join this organization for the right reason
My hidden talent
My ability to play paddle ball
Elsa Roman
Program Director - Connection Center RGV
Quick facts
Started:
2023
Joined:
As staff
Lives in:
Hidalgo, Texas
About Me
Elsa Roman, LPC-A, PS, MHPS, has worked as a peer support specialist, peer support specialist supervisor, advocate, peer trainer, consultant, and leader in the peer movement. She has combined her lived experience, education, work experience, cultural background, and interest to promote and develop culturally competent services, career opportunities, and trauma-sensitive training grounded in achieving cultural diversity issues for Hispanic peers in Texas. She is a loving wife and mother of three boys
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
I do love to work with a community full of energy, that cares and is continually impacting the people they serve
Best advice I’ve received
Never let fear decide your future
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Be ready to feel part of this family
My hidden talent
Being the host
Misty Stultz
Lead Data Scientist
Quick facts
Started:
2022
Joined:
As an intern
Lives in:
San Antonio
About Me
“I’m a San Antonio transplant, originally from a little bit of everywhere, but I claim Mustang, Oklahoma. My journey toward my current role began during my Junior year of High school, when I fell head over heels in love with statistics and anything related to data. When I signed up for AP Statistics I thought that I was getting a dreaded college class out of the way, but slowly my teacher’s passion for the subject intrigued me so much that it eventually became my passion as well. It just goes to show how much of an impact a really good teacher can have on their student’s lives! Between high school and now I attended 3 different colleges, moved multiple times, taught yoga, and started my own successful photography business. Still my love for data never faded. After another move I had to make the decision between restarting my business and going back to school one last time. It was then that I realized just how much I wanted to use data to improve the lives of others. The road here was long and winding, but I know that I ended up exactly where I’m meant to be.”
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
I always look forward to coming in to work because I get to interact with the best people all day, and then call it work. Whether it’s engaging with supportive co-workers or chatting with a member of The Clubhouse, I always know I’m going to leave work better than when I came in
Best advice I’ve received
“Allow yourself to make a lot of mistakes and then learn from them. Do. Break. Fix. Learn.”
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
The number one thing you need to succeed here is a lot of heart. You make the biggest difference when your heart is in the work
My hidden talent
My karaoke rendition of Bowling for Soup’s hit, “1985”
About Me
I’m from a small town close to Sherman, TX and have developed a passion for my work in mental health and substance abuse. My own personal experiences make this work natural. My life today and devotion to helping others is what gives me purpose. I enjoy reading any book and watching true crime documentaries. I am surrounded by support and love and I am incredibly thankful for this opportunity to be a part of this team.
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
The motivation to help others find a healthy path toward Recovery.
Best advice I’ve received
“Be present in each moment.”
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
I encourage everyone who has a passion for helping others and has the personal experience to join! Our experiences and knowledge is important to the recovery community.
My hidden talent
I don’t think I have one!
About Me
I’m a mental Health Peer Specialist and Recovery Support Peer Specialist. I like to inspire and encourage and support others to achieve their goals. I like to show people that shared laughter and heart can take you further than one could ever imagine.
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
I can be me!!!!
Best advice I’ve received
The Board Room looks like me today.
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Come with an open heart, a willingness to learn, and a passion for helping others. Bring your energy, empathy, and commitment and you’ll make a difference here!!!
My hidden talent
Elsa Roman
Program Director - Connection Center RGV
Quick facts
Started:
2023
Joined:
As staff
Lives in:
Hidalgo, Texas
About Me
Elsa Roman, LPC-A, PS, MHPS, has worked as a peer support specialist, peer support specialist supervisor, advocate, peer trainer, consultant, and leader in the peer movement. She has combined her lived experience, education, work experience, cultural background, and interest to promote and develop culturally competent services, career opportunities, and trauma-sensitive training grounded in achieving cultural diversity issues for Hispanic peers in Texas. She is a loving wife and mother of three boys
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
I do love to work with a community full of energy, that cares and is continually impacting the people they serve
Best advice I’ve received
Never let fear decide your future
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Be ready to feel part of this family
My hidden talent
Being the host
Mary Maxine Bobbitt
Program Director - Connection Center San Antonio
Quick facts
Started:
2022
Joined:
As staff
Lives in:
San Antonio
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
I love the culture of Form Communities. We focus on wellness out in the community but also within our community. When you have a bunch of people focusing on good things, you have laughs, inspiration and healing in the air. This community, my community, has good air so to speak
Best advice I’ve received
Even when you are not motivated, especially when you are not motivated, move your feet
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Cliché but so true…be yourself
My hidden talent
My knowledge of fart jokes, singing “I like big butts and I can not lie” in a lounge singer opera type style, Latin dancing, quoting Shakespeare or doing impressions of people
Danny Workman
Peer Specialist
Quick facts
Started:
2024
Joined:
As staff (Como personal)
Lives in:
San Antonio
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
Doing good for an underserved community
Best advice I’ve received
Listen to people
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Come see what we do.
My hidden talent
nothing unless i just fed everyone.
Sebastian Maldonado
Social Practitioner
Quick facts
Started:
2022
Joined:
As staff (Como personal)
Lives in:
San Antonio
About Me
My name is Sebastian Azaria Maldonado, but that’s too long and I got used to going by nicknames since birth so I just go by Seb. I was born and raised in San Antonio, and I played percussion in the high school band(s). I’ve always enjoyed the stories found in media, books, and video games. I’m fond of Sci-fi/Horror movies, RPG/Story-Heavy games, and Fantasy/Superhero books/comics.
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
No days are the same, there’s always something different going on with different people. It’s like I sometimes say, “Everything’s always happening.”
Best advice I’ve received
There are millions of possibilities for the future, but it’s up to you to choose which one will become reality.
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
No matter what team you’re on, there’s never a dull moment here.
My hidden talent
my vocal range whether it’s talking or singing
Eric Estrada
Executive Director
Quick facts
Started:
2014
Joined:
As a volunteer
Lives in:
San Antonio, TX
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
That people are exactly themselves around here
Best advice I’ve received
Someone recommended that I move away for a period of time for personal and professional growth, and then come back. It was a great decision!
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Get started! We have a variety of programs and communities–just join one
My hidden talent
My ability to play Dr. Mario on the original Nintendo
About Me
“Josh Green has worked at Form Communities as the Program Manager of PeerForce since 2021. His primary responsibilities include managing relationships with state, nonprofit, and university partners that support the Texas peer-ecosystem, and developing strategies to help scale the peer workforce in Texas. Prior to joining Form, Josh spent over 6 years working in the Peer Support space, leading efforts to create peer services across the substance use and mental health fields at the organizational, community, and state levels. Josh has worked in youth, adult, nonprofit, and for profit treatment organizations, and has been in long-term recovery since 2013. “
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
The personal satisfaction from the work we do, and the people I get to work alongside. My work here allows me to feel like I have contributed to something important, and grow professionally along the way.
Best advice I’ve received
When being trained as a Peer Specialist, a coworker told me “They don’t care what you know until they know that you care”.
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
I would encourage anyone interested in working at Form to look at our organizations values and see if/how they are present in their personal life. I would also suggest reaching out and volunteering in the clubhouse program to see what those values look like in practice.
My hidden talent
I would perform a mistake-filled cover of the guitar solo from the ending of the movie “Crossroads”.
Misty Stultz
Lead Data Scientist
Quick facts
Started:
2022
Joined:
As an intern
Lives in:
San Antonio
About Me
“I’m a San Antonio transplant, originally from a little bit of everywhere, but I claim Mustang, Oklahoma. My journey toward my current role began during my Junior year of High school, when I fell head over heels in love with statistics and anything related to data. When I signed up for AP Statistics I thought that I was getting a dreaded college class out of the way, but slowly my teacher’s passion for the subject intrigued me so much that it eventually became my passion as well. It just goes to show how much of an impact a really good teacher can have on their student’s lives! Between high school and now I attended 3 different colleges, moved multiple times, taught yoga, and started my own successful photography business. Still my love for data never faded. After another move I had to make the decision between restarting my business and going back to school one last time. It was then that I realized just how much I wanted to use data to improve the lives of others. The road here was long and winding, but I know that I ended up exactly where I’m meant to be.”
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
I always look forward to coming in to work because I get to interact with the best people all day, and then call it work. Whether it’s engaging with supportive co-workers or chatting with a member of The Clubhouse, I always know I’m going to leave work better than when I came in
Best advice I’ve received
“Allow yourself to make a lot of mistakes and then learn from them. Do. Break. Fix. Learn.”
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
The number one thing you need to succeed here is a lot of heart. You make the biggest difference when your heart is in the work
My hidden talent
My karaoke rendition of Bowling for Soup’s hit, “1985”
Summer M. Berman
Social Practice Advisor
Quick facts
Joined:
Clubhouse partner and Flourish client
Lives in:
Metro Detroit, MI
About Me
Summer M. Berman, LMSW has worked in the Clubhouse model of rehabilitation for nearly 25 years, including as a Michael Walther Executive Fellow at Fountain House. She led the efforts to open the first “freestanding” Clubhouse in Michigan and recently helped launch the first Clubhouse in Idaho. She currently works on several grant funded projects in the areas of Clubhouse research, training, and advocacy, and sits on Clubhouse International’s Data Collection & Research Subcommittee. Summer presents regularly at local, state, and national conferences and trainings on the Clubhouse model and is a leader in Clubhouse quality improvement efforts across the state of Michigan.
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
I love being part of a team that is not afraid of trying something new! Problem solving and experimentation are core parts of my work style.
Best advice I’ve received
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
My hidden talent
Bilal Khan
Flourish Lead Developer
Quick facts
Started:
2022
Joined:
To help others and let them know that they are important too.
Lives in:
Lahore
About Me
I have MS in Software Engineering and have been a one man army in doing projects. SA Clubhouse has been a good use case to improve and polish business processes and to see that now Flourish has been deployed to multiple ClubHouses, that gives me a sense of contribution and achievement. I have been remotely involved in developing F3 and the backend system. I am a traveller and enjoy road trips to the countryside. Apart from being glued to my screen, i often get time off to see nature and spend time in meditation. i might one day meet our Form communities team too. I like poetry, art, antiques and anything related to history.
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
To help others and let them know that they are important too.
Best advice I’ve received
Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift of God, which is why we call it the present.
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
To have a big and open heart and a passion to help others.
My hidden talent
My motivational quotes and knowledge of history.
Amy Joyce Ponder
Partnership Manager
Quick facts
Started:
2023
Joined:
As staff
Lives in:
San Antonio
About Me
I grew up in Chicago with my parents and two sisters. In 2005 I moved to El Paso and worked with immigrants, refugees, and individuals without housing. My husband and I moved to San Antonio in 2021 to be closer to family. Welcoming people into community is one of my favorite things to do
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
The welcoming attitude and kindness of everyone in the community
Best advice I’ve received
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
My hidden talent
Malcolm Fox
Program Development Specialist
Quick facts
Started:
2019
Joined:
As staff
Lives in:
Seattle, Washington
About Me
I joined form communities in my senior year at Trinity University, as I was looking for a way to translate my study of religion to a career with a positive impact on the world. Since then I have worked for the organization for nearly four years as a development professional who focuses on raising funds to facilitate and expand our programs. I enjoy communicating the impact of our organization to funders and supporters across the country. Since joining form, I have helped increase the size of our organization’s budget more than twice over. I now live and work remotely in Seattle, WA
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
I love the models that form communities uses to improve access to mental health recovery. Clubhouse, Peer Support, and community-based recovery programs are the most effective tools for giving people control over their wellness that I’ve seen in my career. I believe in this work whole-heartedly
Best advice I’ve received
“Real love is a pure wish for others to be truly happy.” – Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Think outside the box! There are too many people that think doing things the way they’ve always been done is “good enough.” Even the category of “mental health” is a concept with limits
My hidden talent
My encyclopedic knowledge of extreme metal bands
Alexander Balido
Data Systems Intern
Quick facts
Started:
2024
Joined:
As an intern
Lives in:
Helotes
About Me
I am currently attending Texas A&M San Antonio, and I am planning a bachelors in Computer Science.
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
Knowing that I am helping people with their struggles in mental health
Best advice I’ve received
Regrets mean that you have grown as a person in terms of judgement.
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Relieving stress is a part of the job, so don’t be afraid to ask for help.
My hidden talent
My game development skills.
Devon Ledbetter
Flourish Technician
Quick facts
Started:
2014
Joined:
As a volunteer
Lives in:
San Antonio
About Me
I’ve volunteered, interned, and am now working as a Flourish technician for form communities and am blessed to have the opportunity to help everyone
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
Everybody works together as a team instead of under a hierarchy
Best advice I’ve received
Try to worry less about stuff that isn’t under your control, and take charge of what you can control
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Be willing to learn and meet people where they’re at
My hidden talent
My ability to snap really fast
Julie Ramoz
Flourish Technician
Quick facts
Started:
2021
Joined:
As an intern
Lives in:
San Antonio
About Me
Currently studying computer science, and a member of the Flourish team. I enjoy solving a good puzzle/problem and I am a HUGE horror/slasher movie fan
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
I love that knowing that the work that I am doing with the Flourish team is going on to help the many clubhouses service their communities
Best advice I’ve received
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Don’t be afraid to make mistakes
My hidden talent
My amazing alto-saxophone skills!!!
About Me
Kyler (he/him) has now worked at form communities for a total of 5 years and counting. He first started out as a Staff Generalist Employment Specialist from 2014 to 2017. In 2021, he came back to work on the PeerForce project. Alongside my work on the PeerForce project he have also started to look into what a housing program could look like at form communities. Outside of my work at form communities, he have spent the majority of my professional life in nonprofit and social service work particularly employment services, coordinating AmeriCorps programming and volunteers. After work he likes to spend time outside, with family and friends, be active, read, and learn new things.
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
Our community helping each other achieve our wellness goals
Best advice I’ve received
Practice self compassion
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Be patient with yourself when starting out and make sure to take case of yourself.
My hidden talent
Singing
Eric Estrada
Executive Director
Quick facts
Started:
2014
Joined:
As a volunteer
Lives in:
San Antonio, TX
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
That people are exactly themselves around here
Best advice I’ve received
Someone recommended that I move away for a period of time for personal and professional growth, and then come back. It was a great decision!
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Get started! We have a variety of programs and communities–just join one
My hidden talent
My ability to play Dr. Mario on the original Nintendo
About Me
“Josh Green has worked at Form Communities as the Program Manager of PeerForce since 2021. His primary responsibilities include managing relationships with state, nonprofit, and university partners that support the Texas peer-ecosystem, and developing strategies to help scale the peer workforce in Texas. Prior to joining Form, Josh spent over 6 years working in the Peer Support space, leading efforts to create peer services across the substance use and mental health fields at the organizational, community, and state levels. Josh has worked in youth, adult, nonprofit, and for profit treatment organizations, and has been in long-term recovery since 2013. “
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
The personal satisfaction from the work we do, and the people I get to work alongside. My work here allows me to feel like I have contributed to something important, and grow professionally along the way.
Best advice I’ve received
When being trained as a Peer Specialist, a coworker told me “They don’t care what you know until they know that you care”.
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
I would encourage anyone interested in working at Form to look at our organizations values and see if/how they are present in their personal life. I would also suggest reaching out and volunteering in the clubhouse program to see what those values look like in practice.
My hidden talent
I would perform a mistake-filled cover of the guitar solo from the ending of the movie “Crossroads”.
Peter McClain
Managing Director of Finance and Operations
Quick facts
Started:
2019
Joined:
As staff
Lives in:
San Antonio Medical Center
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
The warmth and camaraderie of friendships among the community, the flexibility and courage of the organization to try new things and collaborate in pursuit of our mission.
Best advice I’ve received
Everything in moderation
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Be yourself genuinely, engage with others sincerely, be willing to try new things in new spaces with new approaches to your work and be open to change as new ways of doing things present themselves
My hidden talent
Elsa Roman
Program Director - Connection Center RGV
Quick facts
Started:
2023
Joined:
As staff
Lives in:
Hidalgo, Texas
About Me
Elsa Roman, LPC-A, PS, MHPS, has worked as a peer support specialist, peer support specialist supervisor, advocate, peer trainer, consultant, and leader in the peer movement. She has combined her lived experience, education, work experience, cultural background, and interest to promote and develop culturally competent services, career opportunities, and trauma-sensitive training grounded in achieving cultural diversity issues for Hispanic peers in Texas. She is a loving wife and mother of three boys
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
I do love to work with a community full of energy, that cares and is continually impacting the people they serve
Best advice I’ve received
Never let fear decide your future
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Be ready to feel part of this family
My hidden talent
Being the host
Misty Stultz
Lead Data Scientist
Quick facts
Started:
2022
Joined:
As an intern
Lives in:
San Antonio
About Me
“I’m a San Antonio transplant, originally from a little bit of everywhere, but I claim Mustang, Oklahoma. My journey toward my current role began during my Junior year of High school, when I fell head over heels in love with statistics and anything related to data. When I signed up for AP Statistics I thought that I was getting a dreaded college class out of the way, but slowly my teacher’s passion for the subject intrigued me so much that it eventually became my passion as well. It just goes to show how much of an impact a really good teacher can have on their student’s lives! Between high school and now I attended 3 different colleges, moved multiple times, taught yoga, and started my own successful photography business. Still my love for data never faded. After another move I had to make the decision between restarting my business and going back to school one last time. It was then that I realized just how much I wanted to use data to improve the lives of others. The road here was long and winding, but I know that I ended up exactly where I’m meant to be.”
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
I always look forward to coming in to work because I get to interact with the best people all day, and then call it work. Whether it’s engaging with supportive co-workers or chatting with a member of The Clubhouse, I always know I’m going to leave work better than when I came in
Best advice I’ve received
“Allow yourself to make a lot of mistakes and then learn from them. Do. Break. Fix. Learn.”
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
The number one thing you need to succeed here is a lot of heart. You make the biggest difference when your heart is in the work
My hidden talent
My karaoke rendition of Bowling for Soup’s hit, “1985”
Natalie Cunningham-Williams
Program Director - Peer Academy
Quick facts
Started:
2023
Joined:
As staff
Lives in:
Manhattan, New York
About Me
Natalie Cunningham-Williams is a young person in long-term recovery from Substance Use Disorder. Natalie is a dual graduate from UTSA & UTSA Honors College with a B.A. in sociology and an A.A. in psychology. Her passion is helping young people with substance use and mental health needs through work with her communities
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
Being able to give what was given to me. I started my mental health journey as a young teen and if it wasn’t for peer support I don’t know where I would be today
Best advice I’ve received
It is a piece of my favorite quote. “Be soft, do not let the world make you hard.” – Kurt Vonnegut. This is something I live by everyday. Even when I feel like the world is conspiring against me, I continue to allow myself to be happy and see the good in things
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Remember to balance. It’s easy to start to see work as my recovery. I need to continue to work on myself outside of work
My hidden talent
My crochet skills!
Mary Maxine Bobbitt
Program Director - Connection Center San Antonio
Quick facts
Started:
2022
Joined:
As staff
Lives in:
San Antonio
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
I love the culture of Form Communities. We focus on wellness out in the community but also within our community. When you have a bunch of people focusing on good things, you have laughs, inspiration and healing in the air. This community, my community, has good air so to speak
Best advice I’ve received
Even when you are not motivated, especially when you are not motivated, move your feet
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Cliché but so true…be yourself
My hidden talent
My knowledge of fart jokes, singing “I like big butts and I can not lie” in a lounge singer opera type style, Latin dancing, quoting Shakespeare or doing impressions of people
David Castro
Peer Specialist Supervisor
Quick facts
Started:
2019
Joined:
As staff
Lives in:
San Antonio
About Me
My Name is David Castro Jr been doing direct services since 1998 with different populations of humans
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
To see other peers doing the work/support
Best advice I’ve received
Be yourself, not what others want you to be
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Be openminded
My hidden talent
The quiet game
About Me
Tahlar Rowe was born in raised in Houston, Texas where she currently resides today. She attended Trinity University where she graduated with a Bachelor’s of Art in Political Science, Spanish and History. She has a passion for community oriented work and she thrives in environments seeking to give back. She has been employed with H-E-B Groceries 11 years and loves to volunteer with them. Her hobbies include camping, hairstyling, reading, traveling, and attending festivals. She loves music, dancing, art and creating Youtube content. Tahlar has completed working with Trinity University, NAACP, various political campaigns, Higher Dimension church, Houston Police Department and counting. Her desire is to always be involved and make a difference.
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
The ability to see the impact we have on various lives is something I love most. Whether it is our members, those trained through the programs, staff, volunteers and more, we all are impacted. This a special community that enriches lives everything and upholds a wonderful mission.
Best advice I’ve received
Always be yourself, no-one can beat you at being you.
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
We all belong here, know that there is a space for you.
My hidden talent
My amazing dance skills.
About Me
Originally from Monterrey, Nuevo León, I am a mother of four, a wife, and a professional with over 20 years of experience in finance. I enjoy working and contributing my knowledge to worthy causes. I cherish spending my free time with my family.
Originaria de Monterrey, N.L. Madre de 4 hijos, esposa y profesionista con mas de 20 años de experiencia en finanzas. Disfruto de trabajar y aportar con mis conocimienros a buenas causas. Disfruto mi tiempo libre con mi familia.
Originaria de Monterrey, N.L. Madre de 4 hijos, esposa y profesionista con mas de 20 años de experiencia en finanzas. Disfruto de trabajar y aportar con mis conocimienros a buenas causas. Disfruto mi tiempo libre con mi familia.
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
I am motivated by feeling useful, contributing my work to achieve goals, and I enjoy my work and contributing ideas that benefit the organization.
Me motiva sentirme util, aportar mi trabajo para cumplir objetivos y disfruto de mi trabajo y aportar ideas que beneficien a la organizacion.
Me motiva sentirme util, aportar mi trabajo para cumplir objetivos y disfruto de mi trabajo y aportar ideas que beneficien a la organizacion.
Best advice I’ve received
Never underestimate a person who has nothing to lose, because when they lost everything, they also lost their fear.
Nunca subestimes a una persona que no tiene nada que perder, porque cuando perdiò todo, también perdió el miedo.
Nunca subestimes a una persona que no tiene nada que perder, porque cuando perdiò todo, también perdió el miedo.
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
The effort you make every day will be reflected in the benefit to our communities.
El esfuerzo que tu hagas dia a dia se verá reflejado en el beneficio a nuestras comunidades.
El esfuerzo que tu hagas dia a dia se verá reflejado en el beneficio a nuestras comunidades.
My hidden talent
Wood sign designs and expert in 80s music.
Peter McClain
Managing Director of Finance and Operations
Quick facts
Started:
2019
Joined:
As staff
Lives in:
San Antonio Medical Center
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
The warmth and camaraderie of friendships among the community, the flexibility and courage of the organization to try new things and collaborate in pursuit of our mission.
Best advice I’ve received
Everything in moderation
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Be yourself genuinely, engage with others sincerely, be willing to try new things in new spaces with new approaches to your work and be open to change as new ways of doing things present themselves
My hidden talent
Minot Pratt
Finance Specialist
Quick facts
Started:
2005
Joined:
As a volunteer
Lives in:
Timberwood Park
About Me
Graduate of Southern Methodist University – Been an owner/partner in various entrepreneurial business which include: Car Dealership, Commercial Real Estate, Manufacturing, and Franchises
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
The Culture
Best advice I’ve received
Understand what is expected of you
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Make sure you are join this organization for the right reason
My hidden talent
My ability to play paddle ball
Amy Joyce Ponder
Partnership Manager
Quick facts
Started:
2023
Joined:
As staff
Lives in:
San Antonio
About Me
I grew up in Chicago with my parents and two sisters. In 2005 I moved to El Paso and worked with immigrants, refugees, and individuals without housing. My husband and I moved to San Antonio in 2021 to be closer to family. Welcoming people into community is one of my favorite things to do
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
The welcoming attitude and kindness of everyone in the community
Best advice I’ve received
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
My hidden talent
Malcolm Fox
Program Development Specialist
Quick facts
Started:
2019
Joined:
As staff
Lives in:
Seattle, Washington
About Me
I joined form communities in my senior year at Trinity University, as I was looking for a way to translate my study of religion to a career with a positive impact on the world. Since then I have worked for the organization for nearly four years as a development professional who focuses on raising funds to facilitate and expand our programs. I enjoy communicating the impact of our organization to funders and supporters across the country. Since joining form, I have helped increase the size of our organization’s budget more than twice over. I now live and work remotely in Seattle, WA
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
I love the models that form communities uses to improve access to mental health recovery. Clubhouse, Peer Support, and community-based recovery programs are the most effective tools for giving people control over their wellness that I’ve seen in my career. I believe in this work whole-heartedly
Best advice I’ve received
“Real love is a pure wish for others to be truly happy.” – Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Think outside the box! There are too many people that think doing things the way they’ve always been done is “good enough.” Even the category of “mental health” is a concept with limits
My hidden talent
My encyclopedic knowledge of extreme metal bands
Luciana Sanchez Suero
Facilities Specialist
Quick facts
Started:
2025
Joined:
As a volunteer (Como voluntario)
Lives in:
Santo Domingo
About Me
My name is Lucian and I am Dominican Republic. All my family is still there and I live here in San Antonio with my daughter who is 3 years old. I have been in the US for 3 years and I love it but I sure miss my family.
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
I love the mission and how Form Communities helps people.
Best advice I’ve received
Reach for your dreams and never give up.
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
It is a good place to work and all the staff are amazing.
My hidden talent
I am a good actress and I like theatre.
About Me
I owned and operated my own decorated cookie business. I have a BA in psychology (focus in cognitive neuroscience) and applied statistics. I enjoy reading and playing video games.
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
I love that people are genuinely nice and they enjoy and care about what they do.
Best advice I’ve received
Stand up for what’s right, even if you stand alone
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Don’t be afraid to engage with people.
My hidden talent
About Me
Tahlar Rowe was born in raised in Houston, Texas where she currently resides today. She attended Trinity University where she graduated with a Bachelor’s of Art in Political Science, Spanish and History. She has a passion for community oriented work and she thrives in environments seeking to give back. She has been employed with H-E-B Groceries 11 years and loves to volunteer with them. Her hobbies include camping, hairstyling, reading, traveling, and attending festivals. She loves music, dancing, art and creating Youtube content. Tahlar has completed working with Trinity University, NAACP, various political campaigns, Higher Dimension church, Houston Police Department and counting. Her desire is to always be involved and make a difference.
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
The ability to see the impact we have on various lives is something I love most. Whether it is our members, those trained through the programs, staff, volunteers and more, we all are impacted. This a special community that enriches lives everything and upholds a wonderful mission.
Best advice I’ve received
Always be yourself, no-one can beat you at being you.
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
We all belong here, know that there is a space for you.
My hidden talent
My amazing dance skills.
Lorenzo Rangel
Flourish Technician
Quick facts
Started:
2019
Joined:
As a volunteer
Lives in:
San Antonio
About Me
My name is Lorenzo Rangel currently a sophomore in college going for computer science and my role is I.T. Support for FORM and as our 3CX Specialist
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
I love that everyone here is willing to grow and learn, and I love helping people with their tech issues
Best advice I’ve received
If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. -Sun Tzu
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
If you’re willing to learn and improve you will do wonders
My hidden talent
My ability to fix the downstairs phones
About Me
I come to this role with a background spanning non-profit community work, higher ed, and HR leadership with an interest in helping people and systems work a little better together.
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
The love, transformation, and healing that our programs foster through genuine, human connection.
Best advice I’ve received
Much of the best advice I’ve received is hard to put into words. There are so many people in my life whose actions have taught me the most.
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
This is a great environment in which to learn, grow, and serve. Curiosity and adaptability go far here!
My hidden talent
I have a decent jump shot.
About Me
“Josh Green has worked at Form Communities as the Program Manager of PeerForce since 2021. His primary responsibilities include managing relationships with state, nonprofit, and university partners that support the Texas peer-ecosystem, and developing strategies to help scale the peer workforce in Texas. Prior to joining Form, Josh spent over 6 years working in the Peer Support space, leading efforts to create peer services across the substance use and mental health fields at the organizational, community, and state levels. Josh has worked in youth, adult, nonprofit, and for profit treatment organizations, and has been in long-term recovery since 2013. “
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
The personal satisfaction from the work we do, and the people I get to work alongside. My work here allows me to feel like I have contributed to something important, and grow professionally along the way.
Best advice I’ve received
When being trained as a Peer Specialist, a coworker told me “They don’t care what you know until they know that you care”.
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
I would encourage anyone interested in working at Form to look at our organizations values and see if/how they are present in their personal life. I would also suggest reaching out and volunteering in the clubhouse program to see what those values look like in practice.
My hidden talent
I would perform a mistake-filled cover of the guitar solo from the ending of the movie “Crossroads”.
Elsa Roman
Program Director - Connection Center RGV
Quick facts
Started:
2023
Joined:
As staff
Lives in:
Hidalgo, Texas
About Me
Elsa Roman, LPC-A, PS, MHPS, has worked as a peer support specialist, peer support specialist supervisor, advocate, peer trainer, consultant, and leader in the peer movement. She has combined her lived experience, education, work experience, cultural background, and interest to promote and develop culturally competent services, career opportunities, and trauma-sensitive training grounded in achieving cultural diversity issues for Hispanic peers in Texas. She is a loving wife and mother of three boys
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
I do love to work with a community full of energy, that cares and is continually impacting the people they serve
Best advice I’ve received
Never let fear decide your future
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Be ready to feel part of this family
My hidden talent
Being the host
Natalie Cunningham-Williams
Program Director - Peer Academy
Quick facts
Started:
2023
Joined:
As staff
Lives in:
Manhattan, New York
About Me
Natalie Cunningham-Williams is a young person in long-term recovery from Substance Use Disorder. Natalie is a dual graduate from UTSA & UTSA Honors College with a B.A. in sociology and an A.A. in psychology. Her passion is helping young people with substance use and mental health needs through work with her communities
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
Being able to give what was given to me. I started my mental health journey as a young teen and if it wasn’t for peer support I don’t know where I would be today
Best advice I’ve received
It is a piece of my favorite quote. “Be soft, do not let the world make you hard.” – Kurt Vonnegut. This is something I live by everyday. Even when I feel like the world is conspiring against me, I continue to allow myself to be happy and see the good in things
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Remember to balance. It’s easy to start to see work as my recovery. I need to continue to work on myself outside of work
My hidden talent
My crochet skills!
Kimber Anderson
Peer Academy Mentor
Quick facts
Started:
2017
Joined:
As a contract employee from another Clubhouse
Lives in:
Portland, OR
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
I love the down to earth quality of a Clubhouse community. The realness, the authenticity, the mutual care. There’s nothing else like it.
Best advice I’ve received
1) Don’t believe everything you think. 2) Lead with curiosity and listen first.
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
This organization lives and breaths experimentation and innovation. If you can be adaptable and willing to take risks, you will probably thrive here!
My hidden talent
my accents and impersonations—and my Spurs knowledge!
David Castro
Peer Specialist Supervisor
Quick facts
Started:
2019
Joined:
As staff
Lives in:
San Antonio
About Me
My Name is David Castro Jr been doing direct services since 1998 with different populations of humans
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
To see other peers doing the work/support
Best advice I’ve received
Be yourself, not what others want you to be
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Be openminded
My hidden talent
The quiet game
About Me
Kyler (he/him) has now worked at form communities for a total of 5 years and counting. He first started out as a Staff Generalist Employment Specialist from 2014 to 2017. In 2021, he came back to work on the PeerForce project. Alongside my work on the PeerForce project he have also started to look into what a housing program could look like at form communities. Outside of my work at form communities, he have spent the majority of my professional life in nonprofit and social service work particularly employment services, coordinating AmeriCorps programming and volunteers. After work he likes to spend time outside, with family and friends, be active, read, and learn new things.
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
Our community helping each other achieve our wellness goals
Best advice I’ve received
Practice self compassion
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
Be patient with yourself when starting out and make sure to take case of yourself.
My hidden talent
Singing
Laura Vasquez
Program Specialist
Quick facts
Started:
2019
Joined:
As a student in MHPS training in 2020 then volunteer/member
About Me
I am native to San Antonio, Texas. I come from a family background of people who love to serve their communities and help improve the lives of others. I have been able to carry on our families humanitarian values through different avenues in our community and Texas. I have long history of being in property management and being an executive administrative assistant to some great people that have taught me so many valuable lessons. In 2010 I found recovery from substance use and quickly became of service. One of my favorite parts of my recovery was sharing with others how recovery, personal change and growth are possible. At 6 months of sobriety I was able to go into lock down facilities here in Bexar County and South Texas to share my own experience, strength and hope. In 2019 I realized that I still was missing something from my recovery path and quickly discovered this new career called Peer Support. I am certified as a Texas Mental Health Peer Specialist as well as a Recovery Support Peer Specialist. I also found the best kept secret in San Antonio, San Antonio Clubhouse/Form Communities. I am now working with these fabulous non-profit organization and helping peers throughout Texas get certified as Texas Peer Specialists. In my spare time I like to read, watch movies, listen to music, go to concerts, travel, visit with my friends and family, go to the beach, spend time with my pets and I still get to help others at work and in my spare time.
Q&A
What keeps me excited to come to work?
Our purpose/mission and our passion for making our community healthier and helping others learn to help themselves.
Best advice I’ve received
The best advice or suggestions that has been given to me (there are 3 that come to mind). 1. Was get as much information as possible on any given topic so that you can make an “”informed”” decision. The more information we have the better decisions we make. 2. The other one is to learn to respond appropriately to situations instead of react…be still until you can respond instead of react out of our emotions. 3. We are responsible for our own healing
Advice to someone who wants to join our team
I would suggest they visit our organization first and become familiar with what we do first. Then to start off part time (if applicable) to see if it is a good fit for the candidate/member before they commit to full time (if applicable). I also suggest that they are in a good place (mentally, physically, spiritually, good self-care practices) to be able to support others and still care for themselves.
My hidden talent
Bajaja! I am a behind the scenes kind of person. Not sure how I would “Wow” everyone. LOL