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Our Board
Take Up the Cause board consists of predominantly BIPOC leaders from a diverse array of sectors including housing, education, healthcare, banking, military, civil rights, and many more, embodying a wide range of expertise and dedication to fostering equity and empowerment.
Vice president-Lisa Gardner
Spokane Born and Raised Lisa Gardner
returned back home to Spokane in 2020.
She is currently the Director of Communications + Community Engagement, City Council at City of Spokane. Lisa the president of the Spokane Chapter of the NAACP
President- Ashley Martin
Ashley currently serves as the Asset Management Director for Community Frameworks (CF), a Spokane
based affordable housing provider. Ashley has experience operating and developing a range housing of low-
income populations including families, formerly homeless, and special needs households. As Asset
Management Director, Ashley oversees CF’s growing portfolio of housing, consisting of over 300 units.
Secretary- Marvin Tucker
With over 30 years dedicated to military service, Marvin has showcased unwavering commitment, leadership, and valor. Following his military tenure, he transitioned to serve the public and community for an additional 20 years, further solidifying his dedication to bettering the lives of those around him. His combined experiences have not only honed his skills but also made him a beacon of inspiration and resilience for many.
Jerrall Haynes
Jerrall Haynes became the first director of Spokane's Office of Civil Rights in June 2023. Before that, he was hired as the city's first civil rights coordinator in 2021. Haynes also served as a school board director, and eventually school board president, for Spokane Public Schools from 2015 to 2021.
Treasurer - Jason Ghan
Jason is one of the Founders of Take Up the Cause. He has 30 years of experience in accounting and finance. He has worked with several non profit organizations including Volunteers of America Spokane, DSHS, and the MLK Jr outreach center.
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Chris Venne
Chris Venne is a "retired" seasoned professional with over 20+ years of expertise in the realm of affordable housing. He served as a developer for Community Frameworks in Spokane. Chris has dedicated two decades to creating sustainable housing solutions for the community, showcasing his unwavering commitment to bettering the lives of many.
Anna Franklin
Anna Franklin brings a wealth of experience with a remarkable 30-year career in healthcare, including her current role as the Executive Director of Health, Equity & Environmental Sustainability for Providence Central Division. Anna currently serves on Governor Jay Inslee’s Washington State Women’s Commission; Spokane YWCA Board of Directors; Empire Health Board of Directors; Take Up The Cause, Board of Directors and member of The Links, Incorporated - Spokane, WA chapter.
Gloria Ochoa-Bruck
Judge Ochoa-Bruck was elected to serve as Municipal Court Judge Position 3 for the City of Spokane November 2021. Gloria also served as Director of Local Government and Multi-Cultural Affairs for the City of Spokane from 2013-2019.Gloria currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Providence Health Systems Mission Board, Empire Health Foundation, and Numerica Credit Union.
Lars Gilberts
Lars Gilberts serves as Numerica Credit Union Vice President of Equity and Community Development, leading work to expand financial access, engagement, and equity. Leveraging financial education, trusting community relationships, and constant learning, Lars works to fulfill Numerica’s core purpose to enhance lives, fulfill dreams, and build communities in relevant, innovative, and meaningful ways.
Staff Members
Chauncey
Jones
Executive Director
Chauncey Jones serves as the Executive Director of Take Up the Cause, bringing a wealth of experience in community engagement, affordable housing, and advocacy for underserved communities. Under his leadership, the organization has expanded its reach and impact, driving initiatives that focus on building generational wealth, providing safe and affordable housing, and supporting community-led development projects.
Betsy
Operations Director
Williams
Betsy Williams is the Operations Director for Take Up the Cause, bringing over 20 years of experience serving the affordable housing community. She oversees the daily operations of the organization, ensuring that our programs run smoothly and effectively. Betsy's extensive experience and dedication to affordable housing have been crucial in driving our mission forward and expanding our reach.​