The Youth Opportunities Team

David Pinkston

Faithbridge Life Coach

David has more than five years of experience mentoring youth and families in both work and community settings. He has served as a Program Counselor and Transition Facilitator, creating individual crisis and service plans, providing vocational support, and establishing educational opportunities and conducting successful face-to-face interventions. 

David earned a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from the University of Buffalo and is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Social Work from Liberty University.  He is also a board-certified Christian counselor.  

David and his wife have one son. David enjoys basketball, football and hanging out with friends and family. He is also a professional drummer and keyboard player.

Joel Renaud

Faithbridge Life Coach

Joel is an accomplished professional with a strong educational background, extensive experience working with youth, and a deep commitment to his family and faith. 

Joel earned a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Studies from Stephen F. Austin State University. With a background in education, Joel served as a former teacher for the Tyler Independent School District (Texas) where he made a significant impact on the lives of students, fostering a love for learning and personal growth. He has also served almost 12 years as a Life Coach to adults and youth in Texas and Florida.  

Joel and his wife have three children. He enjoys a range of hobbies including fishing, cooking, and reading. Joel also has a fascinating background as a former football player, showcasing his dedication to discipline, teamwork, and determination. 

Jolicia Campbell

Faithbridge Life Coach

Jolicia earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Georgia State University.  Most recently, she worked as a Crisis Care Supporter for Georgia Crisis and Access Line.  She also worked as a Juvenile Detention Counselor for the Department of Juvenile Justice.   

Jolicia’s personal story is one of overcoming, and one that she considers a successful life story. She feels what she went through has made her a credible social worker and prepared her to impact our youth.  

Jolicia is happily married, and has two children. Her hobbies include roller skating and baseball. 

Michelle Mondesir

Faithbridge Life Coach

Michelle holds certifications as a life coach, alcohol and drug counselor, and anger management specialist II.  

Michelle earned her bachelor’s degree from Mercer University in Human Services/Substance Abuse Counseling and pursued her master’s degree at Walden University in Human and Social Services. With approximately 15 years of experience in social services, her journey has included supporting developmentally disabled adults, and supervising a team of case managers at Must Ministries in Marietta, serving homeless adults with multiple issues in permanent supportive housing. Most recently, she served as a program manager for a homeless youth initiative at Advocates for Children in Cartersville.  

Michelle thrives on connecting with people and finds immense fulfillment in helping them realize their potential. 

Renee Blankenship

Faithbridge Life Coach

Renee is an Atlanta native and Certified Life Coach who has worked in human services for more than 25 years in various capacities. From homeless single mothers, adults moving toward adulthood and independence, she is passionate not only for their success but also their spiritual growth.  Specializing in financial literacy and life skills coaching, Renee equips those who struggle to know their power and worth.  Her ability to walk alongside her clients until they can walk on their own is her greatest gift.

Renee enjoys spending time with her grandchildren, serving her church and community groups. 

Yullyza Bouza

Faithbridge Life Coach

Yullyza earned her Bachelor of Science in Behavioral Science from Bellevue University and her Master of Science in Mental Health Counseling from Lynn University.  She is a Licensed Mental Health Therapist.  

Yullyza has a career background in healthcare and mental health.  She also worked in the pharmacy field in hospitals, clinics, private pharmacies, and treatment centers for more than a decade.  She has a passion to support patients and advocate for their overall wellbeing.  She has worked with various populations including adults, adolescents, and those who struggle with substance abuse. 

Yullyza is excited to be serving young people as they navigate into adulthood.

Stephanie Kitchen

Intake Coordinator

Stephanie is a Georgia-grown native and resident of Forsyth County. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from the University of North Georgia. Stephanie’s skills and experience extend beyond the educational realm, including serving on the Board of Directors for two local Christian schools. In her most recent role, she served as new client coordinator and office administrator for Restoration Counseling of Atlanta, a distinctively Christian counseling practice.

Stephanie loves to serve the young people in the metro area and beyond.

John Solberg

Vice President of Youth Opportunities

John has more than 20 years of experience working with vulnerable youth in foster care, group homes, and residential programs. Prior to joining FaithBridge, he served more than 13 years as the Executive Director of a nationally recognized, faith-based program for adjudicated and at-risk youth in Wisconsin.

In his free time, John enjoys visiting his children and grandchildren, who are spread out around the country, attending sporting events, and golfing when he has time. He and his wife have four grown children and three grandchildren.

Jenny Wood

Director of Youth Opportunities

Jenny is a Licensed Professional Counselor with more than 15 years of experience serving as Executive Director for a leading Independent Living Program, helping teenagers prepare to live independently.

In her current role, she continues to help young adults who have experienced foster care on their journeys to independence. Jenny is originally from Long Island, New York and was raised in a large, loving family of nine girls, five of whom were adopted. Jenny is married and enjoys spending time riding horses with her daughter. She feels blessed to have the opportunity to support young adults fulfill their goals and find purpose in their lives.