About
The Vine Refuge Inc.Growing Leaders. Restoring Families. Transforming Futures.
Who We Are
Founded in 2009, The Vine Refuge Inc. is a faith-driven 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Palmdale, California, dedicated to transforming the lives of youth and families at risk of separation through the foster care system.
Our mission begins with mentorship, life skills training, and leadership development—but it extends far beyond. We walk alongside each individual as they build confidence, discover their purpose, and connect with a supportive community that believes in their potential and empowers lasting change.
Our Values
At The Vine Refuge Inc., we are committed to developing strong, ethical leaders who become vital contributors to their families, workplaces, and communities. Through comprehensive support, we equip each participant with the tools to overcome life’s challenges and lead with confidence, compassion, and integrity.
Every life impacted by The Vine Refuge creates a ripple of hope with the power to transform generations. With your support, we provide second chances, practical skills, and meaningful connections that lead to lasting, positive change.
How We Help
Our programs are intentionally designed to support the whole person:
Mentorship
We provide consistent, one-on-one guidance that empowers participants to grow, heal, and navigate life confidently.
Life Skills
We teach essential tools like faith, finances, and communication to help participants thrive in daily life.
Leadership Development
We encourage responsibility and purpose by connecting participants with local leaders and real-world leadership opportunities.
Confidence Building
We build self-worth through expressive workshops, creative activities, and public speaking practice in a safe environment.
Teamwork
We foster unity and collaboration through team challenges that develop trust, respect, and shared achievement.
Community Referrals
We connect participants to critical resources like housing, education, food, and job training through trusted local partners.
Community Connections
- Agents of Change,Inc. Community Coalition
- Agents of Change, Inc.
- Youth with a Purpose
- Kingdom Business Connect
- Local Christian Business Network
- TEAM AV
- Joseph Project
Meet Our Team
Guiding with grace and lived wisdom.
Mentors
Erika Alverdi
Founder & Mentor
Mary Sitterle
Mentor
Melissa Chavez
Mentor
Board of Directors
Erika Alverdi
CEO/Founder
My passion is my community. Watching people walk in their God given purpose is what fuels my passion. I am a VISIONARY & GOAL SETTER. I believe that without vision people perish, (Proverbs 29:18)
“Leadership is the capacity to translate vision into reality.” – Warren Bennis
Mary Sitterle
President
I am a child of God and he has given me so many gifts but the best gift I have is connection and relationships. I love people and helping serve.
“Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms”. ! Peter 4:10
Gisell Tyler
Vice President
As a community advocate, published author, and mother. I am grateful to serve others while glorifying God. My passion for restoring children and families is deeply personal an shaped by God’s grace, but above every title and achievement, my greatest and most cherished role is being the mother of three heaven-sent babies, a daily reminder of God’s goodness and faithfulness!
“For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building” 1 COR 3:9
Dawn Cottrell
Treasurer
I am the treasurer for The Vine Refuge and I work at Anthem Blue Cross. I love being the Treasure for TVR and doing my job with Anthem Blue Cross for 18 years because I love helping people.I enjoy doing arts and crafts as a hobby. My favorite scripture is “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him and he will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6
Ida Rodriguez
Secretary
I love the Lord with all of my heart and am passionate about being a wife, an activist and diligent prayer warrior!.My interests are solving puzzles,teaching and hanging out with positive people. I look serious but I can be funny.
“but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength.They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary,they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:31
Elvia Janet Chavez
Resource Coordinator
I lead a customer service team.
I enjoy DIY projects and crafting—it’s my great way to relax and get creative.
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” – Proverbs 3:5
Rene Coronado
Board Director & Facilitator
I have 2 Master’s Degrees; one in Teaching, I currently teach 1st Grade. My second Master’s degree is in counseling; I have a non-profit where I mentor youth in the AV. I work with the youth on personal and professional development. I am also a published author of a new children’s book series and author of articles that relate to personal development and anti-suicide. Most importantly, I’m a mommy of a 4 year old.
“that your days and the days of your children may be… like the days of the heaven upon the earth” Deut. 11:21