Julia holds the position of Board Chair. She is a technologist with a mission to share God’s love and hope wherever she is.

In August of 2022 Vince joined the Emmaus team as board member and treasurer of Emmaus. He brings his considerable experience with budgeting from his long career as a Young Life Area Director. Vince also volunteers as a leader with the San Ramon club.

Vince replaces Dave Martinez, who has served Emmaus with distinction since it’s beginning in 2015. He will graciously train Vince through Oct. 2022. Thank you for your dedication Dave!

Sumarah is retired after 15 years working as an Instructional Aide. She is married to Nick Palermo of Emmaus and has shared the journey of serving disabled kids and adults for the past 30+ years. She enjoys creating art and design projects for her home, Emmaus and church. She volunteers her time as an Emmaus leader in Jessie’s Club and provides secretarial assistance to the staff and board.

Dave first met our Founder Nick at a summer camp and connected immediately with the mission. Dave’s son was born prematurely and contracted spinal meningitis resulting in cerebral palsy. At six years of age, he passed away. Dave has a heart of compassion for people with disabilities of all kinds and is grateful for the honor of serving on the Board. Dave served as a pastor for over 25 years and had a career in radio across the United States. He is currently an author, international podcaster, and business coach.

Louis has been an art director in corporations for twenty-plus years. He is an entrepreneur who currently runs his own design firm. He has served as a volunteer club-leader in our San Ramon Club. He enjoys cooking and serving others.

Sarah is the parent of a special needs son with Autism. She is also a Small Business Owner specializing in feminine hygiene products. She serves as a club leader in the Emmaus San Ramon Club. Sarah has a passion for God and all special-needs kids. She especially wants kids to know that God loves them.

Bill is a facilities management executive who has served on several boards specific to the facilities industry. Bill is originally from the Rochester area and was also a professional golfer and golf instructor in his previous life. He is married to Merry Ayres, who is also a board member for Emmaus Inn Ministries.  

Merry is a human resources leader who is passionate about spreading God's love and joy in all communities. She has previously sat on the board for Second Harvest of Silicon Valley and The First Tee of Silicon Valley. She is married to Bill Ayres who is also a board member for Emmaus Inn Ministries. Merry served as a worship leader for Almaden Neighborhood Church and is recently "retired" after twelve years of service.

Becca Wong has been serving people with disabilities for the last 25 years in various roles such as a respite camp counselor, a pediatric physical therapist, and a mother to a daughter with disabilities. She has a heart to see all people have a relationship with Jesus and engage in their church community as God has uniquely made them. She enjoys outdoor activities such as hiking, snorkeling, and playing volleyball and soccer. When she is not reading or working on projects at home, she enjoys traveling and going on adventures with her husband and 2 daughters.