MEET OUR STAFF AND BOARD
Our Staff
FaithAction’s diverse and bilingual staff bring tremendous education and experience to the work of serving and accompanying our newest immigrants, as well as multicultural and interfaith education and bridge-building programs. We welcome and appreciate all faiths and cultures at FaithAction, and treat all guests with dignity and respect.
José Bernal Munoz
Executive Director
336-379-0037, ext 6
Jose Bernal Munoz serves as the Executive Director at FaithAction International and oversees the daily operations of the organization and staff – while continuing to develop and strengthen community partnerships.
Jose is originally from Mexico and has been with FaithAction for over 7 years. Within his tenure with the organization, he has managed and worked within the Legal Department, the Immigrant Assistance Center, and overseen the administrative and operational aspect of the organization. Through his previous non-profit experiences, he has advocated for immigrant rights and provided direct services to immigrants and refugees.
Jose graduated from Guilford College with a B.S. in Accounting and minored in Community Problem Solving and Latin American Studies. Jose is currently an Accredited Representative with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and a certified Notary Public. He also serves on the GTCC Board of Trustees.
As a first-generation immigrant, Jose strives to address social and economic injustices, and be a voice for marginalized communities. Through his work, he strives to create more inclusive and safer communities.
John Storm
Associate Director
336-379-0037
John Storm is the Associate Director at FaithAction International, supporting the staff with operations, program structure, development, reporting, and evaluation, and grant writing. John has a BA in Humanities, minoring in Religious Studies, a BA in International Studies, and is presently in a MS program concentrating in Business Analytics. He began work in nonprofits over 13 years ago, seeking a means to serve the local immigrant and refugee community who he sees as vital to a thriving and enriched region. He enjoys most working with staff to create programs that are uniquely tailored to the communities served and their authentically-voiced needs. He attributes his creative and analytical approach to program development and service to his being raised by his mother, who is a professional sculptor, and father who is a civil engineer, who both stressed pairing inventiveness with doing what’s right.
John is also active in his church, preaching monthly and serving as a lay delegate to the local district and conference, and supporting a local Spanish-speaking congregation in Winston Salem on its ministerial support team. His faith plays a major role in shaping his service as a nonprofit professional, envisioning a community where all are “joined together, harmonized and knit together, through the proper functioning of every available ligament, according to
the measured working of each individual part, resulting in bodily growth for building itself up in love.”
Maricruz Hernandez
Office Manager & Volunteer Coordinator
336-379-0037, ext. 0
Maricruz Hernandez serves as the Office Manager and Volunteer Coordinator at FaithAction International.
She is originally from Guanajuato, Mexico and migrated to the United States at the age of 7. Maricruz lived in Queens, NY and moved to Greensboro, NC when she was 9 years old.
Maricruz’s passion to serve the immigrant community stems from acknowledging and wanting to help families overcome the hardships and barriers that many face on a daily basis. Through her work at FaithAction, she is able to engage consistently with the community in a variety of ways. Maricruz is a listening-ear for the community and an advocate.
Maricruz was the first graduate in her family. Overcoming many barriers, Maricruz graduated from GTCC with a GED and a CNA certificate. Maricruz also has certifications in infant care (SIDS, Pediatric CPR, AED, and First Aid), CPE, Money Smart and is now a certified Notary Public.
Kristina Meyer Barrera
Immigrant Assistance Center Manager
336-379-0037 ext. 5
Kristina Meyer is the Immigration Assistance Center Manager at FaithAction International. She supports the IAC staff and programming from an approach of empathy, cultural competency, and trust-building.
As the daughter of an Austrian immigrant, Kristina developed an international worldview from a young age. Her partner is from Monterrey, Mexico, connecting her with a large Latino community. With humility and curiosity, she values the diverse gifts, perspectives, and challenges of various cultures. She speaks English, German, and Spanish, and is in the process of learning ASL.
At Elon University, she researched interfaith faith-based community organizing and participated in a program about ethical humanitarian aid. After graduation, she worked with survivors of human trafficking in New Orleans, developing the skills needed to engage vulnerable populations with a trauma-informed approach. Then, she moved back to North Carolina, earning a Master of Divinity and becoming an ordained minister.
As a minister, Kristina recognizes the importance of putting one’s faith into action and spiritual accompaniment through adversity. She strives to empower the community to exercise their own agency and hopes to constantly reflect each individual’s humanity and dignity.
Angelica "Angel" Robles, LCSWa, MSW, CIT, CCISM
Mental Health Clinician
336-303-0786
Angel Robles serves as the Mental Health Clinician at FaithAction. She was born in the Dominican Republic and graduated from Saint Leo University with her Masters in Social Work and is currently a licensed social work associate.
She lived most of her life in Florida and moved to North Carolina in 2020. Angel has worked with children in families as a family support advocate with a focus on immigrant families. She has also served as an advocate for victims of violent crimes alongside law enforcement. Most recently, her energies were invested in the betterment of communities in Greensboro creating opportunities to help families overcome the effects of poverty. In addition, she is a psychotherapist working on her doctorate degree in traumatology. Angel follows the teachings of the Baha’i Faith and loves learning of different cultures and beliefs. Her career hope is to help reduce the impacts of trauma in communities and work on solutions to end poverty, prejudice, and violence.
Lidia Martinez
Immigrant Assistance Center Case Manager
336-379-0037, ext 4
Lidia M. Blanco serves as a Case Manager for the Immigrant Assistance Center at FaithAction International helping to find resources to serve, advocate, and empower the immigrant communities in the U.S.
Lidia is originally from Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico and has been with Faithaction for the past year.In Mexico, Lidia studied office administration, and while in the U. S., she attended Garret Seminary in Evanston, IL. She has been an active and vocal advocate for the immigrant community in her roles in ministry over the last 20 years. She is passionate about seeing lives and homes being transformed for the better and through her work she aims to continue advocating, educating, and helping to turn strangers into neighbors. Her favorite inspirational quote is “todo es posible si puedes creer.”
Michel Arnett
Immigrant Assistance Center Case Manager
336-379-0037, ext 1
Michel P.M. Arnett serves as an Immigrant Assistance Center Case Manager at FaithAction International by providing empowerment services to families.
Michel was Born in Mexico and spent her early years in Canada with her family, where she learned French. Michel graduated from Guilford College in 2022 with a Bachelors of Arts in Education Studies and Spanish, with minors in Psychology and French. She is now pursuing a Masters Degree in Education at Salem College with the ultimate goal of earning her doctorate and becoming a principal. Michel has also served as a medical interpreter in clinics and hospitals and has gained experience in the nonprofit world as an intern learning how to navigate educational, medical, and social systems.
Michel is guided by the awareness to do good because she understands that everyone is fighting a battle each day and instead of giving someone a harder time Michel wants to be an instrument of love, following Angelis quote “love and kindness are never wasted. They always make a difference. They bless the one who receives them, and they bless you, the giver.” With her experience in the nonprofit sector, educational, medical and social, Michel is industrious about welcoming and connecting families to empowering tools.
Jasiel Bernal Munoz
Education, Advocacy, and Bridge Building Manager
336-379-0037, ext. 8
Brandon Dockery
Interfaith Program Manager
336-379-0037
Brandon Dockery is the Interfaith Program Manager at FaithAction and is primarily responsible for managing the Stranger to Neighbor program with our congregation partners.
Brandon was raised in Alaska and has been a social worker and Friends Pastor for 15 years. Brandon received his B.A. in Biblical Studies from John Wesley University and his advanced degrees in Divinity and Biblical Studies from Houston Theological Divinity and Carolina Graduate school of Divinity.
Brandon aspires everyday to embody the teachings of Jesus and to love his neighbor as himself. Brandon is excited about the Stranger to Neighbor program and its ability to change the discussion on immigration.
Araceli Lopez, RN, BSN
Congregational & Community Nurse
336-365-2585
Araceli Lopez serves as the Congregational and Community Nurse at FaithAction. She was born in North Carolina and her parents are from Mexico.
Araceli is part of Cone Health’s Congregational & Community Nurse Program (CCNP). They address health equity by bridging the gaps in healthcare and serving clients within congregations and communities. Araceli connects clients to their health care needs and addresses disparities to promote health and wellness of mind, body and spirit for individuals. She is passionate about preventive care, public health and decreasing the health care barriers in the Hispanic community. Araceli’s hobbies include watching documentaries and making jewelry. Her interests are traveling and learning about different cultures.
Adriana Barrera Ramirez
Policy and Advocacy Coordinator
336-379-0037, ext. 7
Adriana Barrera Ramirez serves as the Policy and Advocacy Coordinator at FaithAction International.
Born and raised in North Carolina to parents from Guerrero, Mexico, Adriana is a proud first-generation daughter of immigrant parents.
She is currently pursuing a B.A. in Political Science with a concentration in Pre-Law and Public Affairs at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro. Adriana was the first in her family to join the armed forces, completing her service contract in 2022 before enrolling at UNC Greensboro.
Her dedication to public service has been evident through her internships with Congresswoman Kathy Manning’s district office, the City of Greensboro City Manager’s Office, and the Center for New North Carolinians’ Oakwood Community Center. These experiences have deepened her understanding of government operations and the resources available to support diverse communities.
Adriana is inspired by the words of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg: “Whatever you choose to do, leave tracks. That means don’t do it just for yourself.” This quote drives her passion for creating a better world for all people and serving immigrant and refugee communities through her work at FaithAction International.
Patricia Sánchez Méndez
Education and Community Outreach Coordinator
336-379-0037, ext. 7
Patricia Sánchez Méndez serves as the Education and Community Outreach Coordinator at FaithAction International.
Patricia is originally from the state of Guanajuato, Mexico, and moved to North Carolina in 2023. This life change, as well as the challenges she faced at a young age, made her want to support and help others who find themselves in the same situation.
With a bachelor’s in Nursing and Midwifery, as well as a master’s in Education, her passion for serving and supporting the community has been reflected through the programs and care she has been involved in. Programs include research, clinical care in hospitals and health centers, prevention, monitoring of regulations in companies, as well as education and monitoring of school programs for future health professionals.
With this professional and personal journey, she has learned that one of the most important things is to be able to support people in an environment of trust and security. Her approach is always warm, empathetic, and kind, and she is now ready and excited to serve our community.
Our Interns
Mariajose Gomez Bados
BSW Student Intern
336-379-0037, ext. 8
Mariajose is a Bachelor of Social Work student at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, currently interning at Faith Action International House.
Born in Chapel Hill, North Carolina Mariajose is a dedicated student at the University of North Carolina Greensboro, where she majors in Social Work with a minor in Human Development and Family Studies.
Driven by a deep commitment to community service, Mariajose aspires to further her education by pursuing a Master’s in Social Work to become a licensed clinical social worker. Her passion is giving back to others, helping those in need, and serving her community with compassion and dedication.
Genesis Lopez
BSW Student Intern
336-379-0037
Genesis Lopez is a Bachelor of Social Work student at the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, currently interning at Faith Action International House.
Born in California to Mexican parents, Genesis moved to Charlotte, North Carolina, at the age of 12. Her diverse background and experiences have fueled her commitment to advocacy, particularly within the Latinx community and broader immigrant populations. Genesis is deeply motivated by a desire to address social inequities and support marginalized communities.
Upon completing her BSW, Genesis plans to pursue a Masters of Social Work degree. Her long-term career goal is to work in policy development and advocacy, focusing on creating systemic changes that benefit immigrant communities.
Outside of her professional aspirations, Genesis enjoys exploring local culture and engaging with community initiatives, reflecting her ongoing commitment to personal and professional growth.
Hannah Hulsman
MSW Intern
336-365-2585
Hannah, a MSW intern, brings experience from her current role as Team Lead for the “More Than a Job NC Program” at the Salvation Army Greensboro, where she oversees employment and training initiatives.
This role has provided her with hands-on experience working with diverse populations and marginalized groups. Through her work, Hannah has developed a deep understanding of the unique challenges these communities face in accessing resources and navigating complex social systems.
Her experience in managing and implementing programs tailored to the needs of diverse populations has honed her ability to provide culturally competent support and resources. This work has strengthened her skills in advocacy, communication, and leadership, enabling her to effectively empower individuals from various backgrounds. Hannah’s role in the program not only supports her goal of obtaining her MSW-LCSW but also reinforces her dedication to creating inclusive environments where all individuals have the opportunity to thrive.
Our Board
FaithAction board members are crucial to the success of FaithAction by promoting the good work of the organization and providing financial oversight. Board members are also important to the long-term strategic planning process, and participate in FaithAction public programs and fundraising initiatives. Board members work closely with the Executive Director, Director of Operations, and staff to accomplish organizational goals, and invest their skills, resources and knowledge to ensure FaithAction achieves its mission and vision.
Board Chair
Board Treasurer
John Storm
Members at Large
Vice Chair
Larry Eisenberg
