Our team is made up of dedicated community leaders, health advocates, and change-makers committed to driving health equity and social transformation. With expertise in community engagement, healthcare, advocacy, and economic development, we work collaboratively to empower underserved communities. Get to know the passionate individuals behind our mission and the impact they create every day.
Lead Specialist
De'Ossie Dingus-CHW
De'Ossie Dingus is a Lead Specialist in community health, supervising and mentoring Community Health Workers (CHWs) while leading health initiatives. He specializes in breast cancer screenings, CHW training programs, violence prevention, and maternal health, with expertise in data reporting and grant writing. De'Ossie is a certified CHW through BHSU, holds a certificate in ethical research, and is certified in violence prevention.
Crisis Intervention Specialist
Keica Simmons-CHW
Keica Simmons is a dedicated Community Health Worker with a Master’s in Education and extensive experience in child behavior and development. She works with children and families to promote healthy development and well-being. Her expertise in behavioral support enables her to engage communities, providing resources and advocacy. Keica is committed to bridging health equity gaps and empowering individuals through education and outreach.
Lead Cyclist Program Coordinator
Matthew Zingg-CHW
Matthew Zingg is training as a Community Health Worker. As Operations Director and co-founder of Two Bikes, a nonprofit bicycle shop in Knoxville, TN, he helped create and grow its community-focused Bike School and Pedal It Forward program. With experience in partnership development, cycling advocacy, and youth mentorship, Matthew is committed to promoting practical cycling as a vital part of a healthy, equitable community.
Lead Cyclist Program Coordinator
Paul Laudeman-CHW
Paul Laudeman of Kickstand is training as a Community Health Worker, bringing a mobility and access lens to community health. Kickstand is a community bike shop that refurbishes donated bicycles and returns them to the community, expanding access to reliable transportation. Grounded in reuse, sustainability, and practical cycling, Kickstand promotes mobility as a foundation for a healthy, equitable community.
Crisis and Violence Recovery Lead
Keisha Baddget-CHW
Keisha Baddget is training as a Community Health Worker. She holds certificates in violence interruption, Smart on Crime, conflict resolution, community peacekeeping, parenting, teen parenting, and community resiliency. Her training equips her to effectively engage communities, provide resources, and offer advocacy. Keisha is dedicated to bridging health equity gaps and empowering individuals through education and outreach.
Health and Education Specialist
George Anna Yarbro-CHW
George Anna Yarbro is a dedicated Community Health Worker with a background in education and leadership. She holds a B.S. in Elementary and Special Education and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from UT Knoxville. With 38 years of experience as a teacher, assistant principal, and administrator in Knox County Schools, she has also been an active community advocate, serving as a Girl Scout Leader and as Boy Scout Scoutmaster.