Melissa Verdugo is a seasoned leader in the non-profit sector with over two decades of experience, specializing in international ministry. With a proven track record of success, Melissa brings a wealth of experience to her role at Heart Bridge International, where she serves as a catalyst for equipping Christians internationally to fulfill the Great Commission.
As the Americas Area Operations Director at Youth for Christ International, Melissa displayed exceptional leadership and strategic acumen. She oversaw the ministry in 24 nations, ensuring the implementation of departmental policies, goals, and objectives. Melissa’s ability to recruit and train staff, establish new protocols, and create and facilitate trainings contributed to the growth and effectiveness of the organization on a global scale. Melissa created credentialing programs and developed and delivered multiple training conferences. Her role as a member of the Global Training Team further showcased her dedication to equipping leaders and ministries and expanding the reach of youth ministry worldwide. As a trainer and evangelist, Melissa has trained leaders in over 30 nations and shared the gospel worldwide.
Prior to her role as Americas Area Operations Director, Melissa served as Co-Regional Director of the Caribbean with Youth for Christ. Her responsibilities included overseeing ministries in multiple countries, recruiting and training staff, and volunteers, and spearheading the establishment of new national programs. As the Co-founder of Youth for Christ in the Republic of Seychelles, Melissa’s visionary leadership resulted in the successful founding of the national program, which included a seminary extension program and youth ministry outreach on secondary school campuses. Her ability to navigate complex organizational challenges, obtain non-profit status, and implement impactful initiatives demonstrated her unwavering commitment to holistic youth ministry.
Melissa’s extensive experience in international ministry, coupled with her strategic leadership skills, make her an invaluable asset to Heart Bridge International. Her ability to create and implement visionary strategies, build partnerships, and empower communities aligns perfectly with the organization’s global outreach mission. With Melissa’s unwavering dedication and passion for making a difference, Heart Bridge International is well-positioned to impact lives across the globe.
R. Brian Verdugo is a dedicated advocate for youth development and a highly accomplished leader in the non-profit sector. As the Co-founder and Vice-President of Heart Bridge International, he combines his extensive experience with Youth for Christ (YFC) and his passion for making a positive impact to drive change and transform lives. Brian’s leadership roles with YFC International included serving as a Regional Director, overseeing national programs in the Caribbean, and as the Co-founder of Youth for Christ in the Republic of Seychelles, where he co-founded the program and achieved full-charter status within two years.
Throughout his career, Brian has demonstrated a deep commitment to youth and children’s ministry. As an International Youth Worker with Youth for Christ USA he worked with underprivileged youth in South Africa, developing curriculum, implementing technology solutions, providing counseling services, and obtaining accreditation for the school at the street children drop-in center. His exceptional dedication and contributions to non-profit work earned him recognition as a finalist for the Extra Mile Hero Charity Worker Award in 2009.
In his current role as Co-founder and Vice-President of Heart Bridge International, Brian leverages his diverse skills and experiences to facilitate the growth of the ministry. With his expertise and passion, he actively supports Heart Bridge International’s mission to make, grow, and multiply disciples. Through his unwavering dedication, Brian continues to drive positive change, empower individuals, and foster meaningful connections within the community.
David A. Solitare is a highly experienced attorney. With over three decades of experience, he is the Attorney/Owner of the Law Office of David A. Solitare, practicing in the areas of estate planning, probate and trust administration, taxation, and corporate representation. He is known for his expertise in providing effective legal solutions to individuals, families, and businesses.
Before establishing his own law office, David worked as an Attorney at Hirschtick, Chenen, Lemon & Curtis, P.C., practicing in the areas of tax, corporate, partnership, and securities law with a focus on healthcare-related ventures. He played a crucial role in organizing, planning, and syndicating various healthcare ventures while providing comprehensive tax planning for partnerships, corporations, individuals, and estates.
As the HBI Board of Directors Secretary, David brings his extensive knowledge and expertise to contribute to the organization’s mission to fulfill the Great Commission. His professionalism, attention to detail, and strategic approach make him a trusted advisor and a valuable asset to the organization.
Joshua Richman is an accomplished financial professional with a diverse background in strategic tax planning, accounting, and financial management. With over 18 years of experience as the President of Richman Financial Corp., he has provided expert tax planning and preparation services to businesses in the Beverly Hills, Hollywood, and West Los Angeles areas and clients across multiple states. Joshua’s strong track record in bookkeeping, payroll services, and financial analysis has made him a trusted advisor in optimizing businesses’ financial performance.
Prior to his current role, Joshua served as an Auditor at Overland Solutions, where he conducted audits for workers’ compensation and general liability insurance policies. During his tenure, he collaborated with multiple insurance carriers and worked closely with regulatory boards and industry professionals to ensure compliance and accurate assessments. Prior to Overland Solutions, Joshua spent seven years as the Accounting Manager for Melendrez Associates, a Landscape Architectural and Urban Design Firm. Clients included Fortune 500 companies, large entertainment companies, government contracts, and subcontracting for top architectural firms internationally.
With a passion for music, Joshua spent four years as a professional percussionist with the Ric Blair Band. Touring extensively throughout the continental United States, he honed his musical talents while developing valuable skills in teamwork and adaptability. With his exceptional knowledge and dedication to financial excellence, Joshua brings valuable expertise as the HBI Board of Directors Treasurer, contributing to the organization’s mission of reaching the world with the gospel.
Kia Harris Tattegrain earned a Master of Nonprofit Administration from the University of San Francisco and is a nonprofit educator and strategist specializing in communications, fundraising, strategy, planning, and development. She is also the Founder and Executive Director of the humanitarian nonprofit organization Dare Humanity. Through her business, Eclectivate™ LLC, she is able to serve nonprofits throughout the nation through nonprofit consulting efforts and education while creating bridges between the nonprofit and corporate sectors. Proud to be a part of an organization that serves God and people.