our Team
Guns are not the problem, it’s the choices of the people holding the gun that is the problem. My goal is to stop our youth from thinking killing each other is the answer to solving problems.
Yvonne brock
Founder
Yvonne Brock leads My Choice 2 Change with a steadfast commitment to advocacy, empathy, and transformative change. As a visionary leader, she has propelled MC2C into new dimensions of impact—most recently through a strategic partnership with Konnva, enhancing the organization’s ability to reach and support our Youth Empowerment Services(YES) program with job training and paid internships.
Under Yvonne’s leadership, MC2C has launched an ambitious Program Narrative: Expanding Holistic Recovery Support for Justice‑Involved Individuals. This initiative focuses on:
- Partnering with York County Jail: Yvonne’s leadership helped solidify MC2C’s role in delivering Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) and Solution‑Focused Brief Therapy (SFBT) to incarcerated individuals. This work has proven to be a powerful bridge from incarceration to community reentry—many participants request continued support post-release.
- Holistic, Wraparound Care: The program blends coaching, natural healing, behavioral therapy, nutritional counseling, wellness coaching, peer mentorship, and trauma-informed planning, offering multi‑dimensional support tailored to each individual.
- Data-Driven Expansion: Growing client referrals and positive participant feedback have highlighted a critical need for post-release services. Yvonne is driving grant-funded efforts to:
- Scale post-release programming to match rising demand,
- Staff up with culturally responsive, evidence-based professionals,
- Strengthen reentry outcomes through individualized case management, sustained MAT access, and continued behavioral therapy.
Yvonne’s leadership with Konnva has further strengthened MC2C’s infrastructure by facilitating operational efficiencies and enabling broader resource access. This partnership underscores her deep commitment to creating sustainable systems that empower individuals on their recovery journey and beyond.
With a foundation built on integrity, inclusivity, and a multicultural perspective, Yvonne Brock champions a future where holistic recovery is not just possible—but expected—for those navigating substance use disorders, mental health challenges, and justice system involvement.
Todd Newman
COO and Director of Operations
Todd Newman is a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in Behavioral Health. Currently serving as the Chief Operating Officer and Director of Operations at My Choice 2 Change, Todd is deeply committed to empowering individuals toward positive change and growth.
Todd’s comprehensive background and expertise make him a valuable asset in directing recovery support services, pardon coaching, and outreach efforts at My Choice 2 Change. He brings a compassionate approach and practical strategies to guide individuals toward wellness and transformation. Through his leadership and extensive knowledge, Todd continues to impact behavioral health and recovery support services significantly.
Phillip J. Lewis
JD, BCD, LICSW
Director of Clinical Services
Phillip Lewis is a highly qualified and licensed Clinical Social Worker with a comprehensive mental health and legal background. He is solution-focused, valuing the importance of a robust therapeutic relationship as a cornerstone for achieving successful outcomes. Phillip integrates humor, passion, and dedication to foster a safe yet challenging environment that motivates change. His approach to care is centered on integrative psychotherapy, customizing therapeutic methods to meet the unique needs of each individual, with a particular focus on managing anxiety, depression, complex PTSD, and sexual trauma.
With a military background, Phillip has enhanced proficiency in evidence-based interventions, strategic supervision, and leadership. He profoundly understands how physical health, environmental factors, and systemic influences shape emotional well-being, advocating for a holistic approach that includes integrative and nutritional psychoeducation. In his practice, he emphasizes skill-building and strategic adaptations to life stressors, underscoring the significance of self-care and the therapeutic journey.
Phillip’s legal training and experience in social justice counseling add another layer to his expertise, equipping him to facilitate change and advocate for justice effectively. His work is underpinned by a solid foundation in legal policy development, analysis, research, and program management, alongside considerable experience in ethics, legal research, and clinical therapeutic interventions for adults, youth, and military members. His skill set spans a broad spectrum of social work and legal skills, making him a critical thinker and problem solver.
Yazmeen Kelly
Director of Wellness & Women’s Health Initiatives
Yazmeen Kelly is a passionate nurse, educator, and advocate for women’s wellness, serving as the Director of Wellness & Women’s Health Initiatives at My Choice 2 Change. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nursing from George Washington University and a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Temple University, pairing academic excellence with hands-on clinical experience in emergency and labor & delivery care.
With a long-term goal of becoming a certified midwife, Yazmeen brings both medical insight and a deep commitment to holistic, community-centered care. At My Choice 2 Change, she leads initiatives that promote maternal health, reproductive wellness, and mental well-being for women, youth, and families. Through telehealth consultations, health education workshops, and mentorship programs, she helps individuals make informed decisions about their health and futures.
Yazmeen also works closely with hospitals, doulas, and community partners to ensure access to culturally responsive care and vital health resources. She believes that when women are supported and informed, their strength uplifts entire communities, a belief that guides her work every day.
Zanette Childs
Director of Events Management and Administration
Meet Zanette, the founder and creative force behind Events by Zanette, a luxury event planning and design company specializing in crafting unforgettable experiences for life’s most special moments. With over a decade of experience in the industry, Zanette is an expert in event planning and design and has built a reputation for delivering flawlessly executed events that exceed her client’s expectations. Her passion for beauty and creativity is evident in every event she designs, and she is dedicated to creating innovative, wow-factor solutions that reflect the unique vision and personality of each of her clients.
Zanette’s commitment to excellence, attention to detail, and personalized approach set her apart in the industry, making her the premier choice for social events, non-profit events, corporate events, conferences, and meetings. She takes the time to understand each client’s needs and preferences, providing a bespoke, personalized experience that ensures their event is everything they dreamed of and more. Whether it’s designing a luxury wedding that captures the couple’s love story, planning a corporate event that reflects a company’s brand and values, or creating a social event that celebrates life’s most special moments, Zanette brings her expertise, creativity, and passion to every project she takes on. Her goal is to help her clients tell their stories through their events and to ensure that every detail is perfect, from the venue and décor to the vendor collaboration and overall design.
Abdul Razak Aziz, Esq.
Director of Legal Affairs and Compliance
Abdul Razak Aziz is a seasoned attorney and dedicated advocate for justice, serving as the Director of Legal Affairs and Compliance at My Choice 2 Change. A proud graduate of Howard University School of Law and Colby College (BA in Government), Abdul Razak brings a strong foundation in public interest and nonprofit law to his role on My Choice 2 Change’s Executive Leadership team.
With bar licensure in Washington, DC, and Pennsylvania, Abdul Razak ensures that My Choice 2 Change’s operations, partnerships, and programs remain in full compliance with local, state, and federal regulations. His work includes drafting and reviewing contracts, advising on nonprofit governance and ethics, managing risk and liability issues, and supporting grant compliance and regulatory filings.
As a part-time consultant and trusted board advisor, Abdul Razak brings sharp legal insight and a deep commitment to social impact. He works closely with the Executive Director and Board of Directors to uphold organizational integrity and guide strategic decisions that align with My Choice 2 Change’s mission to serve women, youth, and families.
Driven by a passion for equity and systemic change, Abdul Razak helps ensure that the organization not only complies with the law but also leads with purpose, transparency, and accountability.
Zion kelly
Director of Blessed & Beloved Foundation
Zion Kelly is a nationally recognized advocate, global speaker, and community leader dedicated to youth empowerment, social justice, and ending gun violence. A proud Washington, DC native, Zion graduated from Thurgood Marshall Academy and earned his Bachelor of Science in Public Relations from Florida A&M University’s School of Journalism & Graphic Communication.
Zion’s advocacy was born from personal tragedy. At the age of 16, he lost his twin brother, Zaire Kelly, to gun violence. This experience deeply shaped his mission and voice. He has since transformed his grief into purpose, becoming a powerful force for change in DC and beyond. Zion has been featured in national media and recognized with numerous honors, including the PEN/Toni and James C. Goodale Freedom of Expression Courage Award, the International Peace Prize awarded to the New Founders in Chicago, and the “New Activist Award.”
A seasoned speaker, Zion has shared his message on stages across the country and internationally, including a speaking tour across Italy, starting in Catania and ending in Assisi, where he addressed youth, educators, and leaders on justice, healing, and advocacy.
Previously, Zion served as the Virtual Mentoring Coordinator at College Bound, a DC-based nonprofit focused on helping students, particularly young Black men, achieve their college dreams. While no longer in that role, Zion remains deeply committed to education access and youth mentorship, continuing to collaborate with organizations that share this vision.
At My Choice 2 Change, Zion lends his expertise to community engagement and advocacy initiatives, using his voice and lived experience to inspire action, uplift families, and support meaningful change across generations.
Addie M. Clowney
Director Of Academic Enrichment
Addie M. Clowney is the President of Miss Addie’s Tutoring Services. She was born and raised in South Baltimore “Pigtown,” Maryland. She has over twenty-five years of educational experience in teaching and training children, youths, and adults. She served as a Girl Scouts Leader at the Girl Scouts of Central Maryland Council for eight years. She served as a Girl Scouts Trainer at the Girl Scouts of Central Maryland Council for seven years. She graduated from one of the oldest all-female high schools in the State of Maryland: Western Senior School. She enjoys passing on the legacy of how important learning is to everyone.
Ms.Clowney holds three degrees in Business Administration (D.B.A., M.B.A., and B.A.). She has completed two years of coursework in Elementary Education (K-8th grades). She is currently an Adjunct Instructor at a community college. She helps prepare adult learners to take their high school equivalency exams, so they can receive their high school diploma. She also provides one-on-one tutoring to children and adults who need assistance in understanding a specific subject or specific topic.
Cynthia Zoe Ortiz
Women Influencers Now (WIN) Program Coach and Board Member
MC2C is proud to propose the addition of Cynthia Zoe Ortiz to the team, contributing as both a dedicated coach for the Women Influencers Now (WIN) program and a board member. With a wealth of lived experience, a bilingual capacity, and an unparalleled commitment to advocacy and recovery, Zoe embodies the resilience and leadership qualities MC2C champions.
Zoe brings unique qualifications that position her as an ideal candidate for these roles:
- Lived Experience: Zoe’s journey through re-entry at the ROC at York Prison equips her with firsthand insights into the challenges faced by women re-entering society. This experience enables her to authentically connect with program participants, fostering trust and empathy.
- Survivor Resilience: As a survivor of domestic violence and PTSD, Zoe embodies strength and determination. Her story of overcoming personal trauma resonates deeply with MC2C’s mission, inspiring others on their paths to healing and self-empowerment. Her role as a single parent during this shows her dedication to family.
- Recovery Milestone: With 5 years of sobriety, Zoe exemplifies the transformative power of recovery. Her commitment to maintaining wellness serves as a powerful testament to the effectiveness of support systems and personal perseverance.
- Bilingual Proficiency: Zoe’s ability to communicate fluently in both English and Spanish broadens MC2C’s outreach, making programs more inclusive and accessible to diverse communities.
- Role as WIN Program Coach: In this capacity, Zoe will lead workshops, mentorship programs, and support groups, focusing on emotional stabilization, resilience-building, and life skills development. She will leverage her background to empower women in navigating re-entry, overcoming trauma, and building pathways to independence and leadership.
Amy Dawson
Board Secretary and Life Skills Coach for ADA Special Needs and Dementia Support
Amy Dawson will serve as a Life Skills Coach dedicated to supporting individuals with special needs, including clients with dementia, focusing on those covered under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). In this role, Amy will provide specialized life skills training aimed at enhancing independence and overall quality of life. Drawing from her lived experience raising her 16-year-old daughter who has autism and ADHD, as well as her understanding of cognitive challenges faced by individuals with dementia, Amy will offer compassionate and personalized coaching tailored to the needs of diverse clients and their families.
Brett Ameir Newman
Youth Empowerment Services (YES) Coordinator and Board Member
Brett Ameir Newman will hold the position of Youth Empowerment Services (YES) Coordinator and serve as a Board Member for My Choice 2 Change (MC2C). At just 19 years old, Brett brings a dynamic and youthful perspective to the organization, contributing valuable insight into the needs and experiences of younger community members. In this dual role, Brett will provide essential supervision and support for the DEN afterschool program, facilitate recreational activities, and deliver life skills training that empowers youth to grow and thrive.