Meet Our Team
Leadership
Samantha Aument
Samantha Aument supports the Courage 2 Call program as their Vice President. Samantha has over 12 years of experience in social services, helping people of all ages recover from substance use and mental health conditions. She completed her master’s degree in social work and began working at TURN BHS/MHS in 2014 as a clinician providing services to homeless individuals of the Serial Inebriate Program. Samantha managed outpatient mental health clinics for 5 years before transitioning into her role as Vice President. Before joining TURN BHS/MHS, Samantha worked with military-connected kids and homeless veterans in recovery from substance use. Samantha is the mother of two military-connected children and is passionate about serving the needs of veterans, active-duty military, and their families.
Samantha Aument
Vice President
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Christina Pineda
Program Manager
Christina is a Navy Veteran and after serving 12 years as an Operations Specialist, Christina was honorably discharged and started working toward her goal of serving her community. Christina has 10 years of experience working in addiction both in the military and in the civilian sector. Christina completed her master’s degree in clinical counseling and began working at TURN BHS/MHS in 2020 as a therapist providing services at San Diego Center for Change to Drug Court participants. Christina is passionate about her veteran and recovery community and leading a team that serves both. Christina likes to spend her time outside of work with her husband Tim along with being an avid supporter of animal rescue groups in the community.
Christina Pineda
Program Manager
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Roderick Gabriel
Roderick is an OIF/OEF Army Veteran. Roderick has achieved a Master’s in Healthcare Administration and holds a Bachelor’s of Science in Public Health. Using his lived experience as a homeless Veteran while leveraging his professional experience and education, Roderick has pursued a career which offers him the opportunity to serve his fellow Veterans. With over 8 years of combined volunteer and professional experience, Roderick has inserted himself in the Veteran service community as a professional who embodies empathy and compassion in his work. As a father of 2 and a loving Husband to his wife, Jessi, Roderick spends his off time with family and friends often attending cultural events and activities which uplift his community.
Roderick Gabriel
211 Contact Center Manager
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Steven Montejano
Steven Montejano, MBA, leads client services at 211 San Diego, bringing extensive experience in call center management and a deep commitment to compassionate service. Influenced by his family’s rich military history, including his uncle, Jesus Montejano, a decorated WWII and Korean War veteran who earned the Bronze Star and the Republique of France Diplome Freedom medal for his service. His father-in-law, Ignacio Rubio, who served in the US Air Force, and Cliff Lopez, who served in the US Army. His nephew, Armando Quezada, is currently in the US Navy, and another nephew, Frank Montejano III, is a US Marine sergeant who served in the Gulf War. At 211 San Diego, Steve is focused on ensuring the Courage to Call program delivers exceptional service to those seeking help, reflecting both his professional expertise and personal dedication to community service.
Steve Montejano
211 Contact Center Director
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Case Manager
Michael Johnson
Veteran Peer Case Manager
Michael J. served 6 years in the United States Marine Corps, working as a Jet Mechanic. He learned what team work really was and he currently uses that attitude as a Veteran Peer Naviagator. He enjoys working with fellow veterans to help other veterans and active duty with issues in their lives. He is fulfilling his passion to help others at Courage to Call.
Michael Johnson
Veteran Peer Case Manager
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Veteran Counselors
Douglas Alvarado
Lead Veteran Counselor
Douglas Alberto Alvarado is an Army Veteran who served as a combat medic in southeast Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom from 2011-2012. Douglas discharged honorably after 6 years of service and continued to pursue his passion in social work education and field work. Douglas has personal lived experience through trauma recovery in combat readjustment and military separation. Douglas is a first-generation service member from Los Angeles who is bilingual in Spanish and recently relocated to San Diego. His experience is supported with an Associate degree in Social and Behavioral Health from Santa Monica College, bachelor’s degree in social work from Arizona State University, and master’s degree from California State University Los Angeles. Douglas also has extensive professional experience providing intensive case management, treatment planning, therapeutic evidence-based mental health counselling, and crisis intervention to various populations including veterans, active-duty military, reservists, National Guard, and their families. Douglas is dedicated to serving those who have served by giving back through trauma-informed care and providing strengths-based social services at Courage to Call. Douglas enjoys time outside of work off-roading in his Bronco, training in Muay Thai boxing, as well as snowboarding during the winter season.
Douglas Alvarado
Lead Veteran Counselor
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Crystal Anderson
Veteran Counselor
Crystal Anderson is a 10 year veteran in both the US Army and US Airforce. Crystal served in the Health Service Management field. Crystal has 5 children and 6 grandchildren and 2 wonderful dogs whom she refers to as her “boys”. Crystal graduated with her Masters in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from the University of Phoenix and will continue her education to obtain her Psy.D in Clinical Psychology. Crystal has extensive knowledge in helping veterans as she is coming from an in/out patient treatment facility for mental health and substance abuse.
Crystal Anderson
Veteran Counselor
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Nathaniel Hentschel
Hello, I’m Nathaniel, a graduate student at the University of Denver, currently pursuing my advanced studies in psychology. Originally from Spring Lake, Michigan, I earned my Bachelor’s degree in Psychology/Neuroscience from Hope College in Holland, MI. As a Navy Submarine Veteran, I have a strong passion for supporting the veteran community, and I hope to one day attain my licensure and have my own private practice doing mental health counseling. In my free time, I enjoy studying Japanese, coaching and playing beach volleyball, spending time with my cat, hiking, and traveling.
Nathaniel Hentschel
Veteran Counselor-Intern
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Outreach Team
Wilford “Wil” Smith
Community Liaison
Wilford (Wil) Smith, retired Navy Chief, with more than twenty years of military service. Wil has been stationed at Weapon Station NAVMAG Lualualei HI, USS Mobile Bay, USS Cowpens, NRD Atlanta, USS Halsey, USS Nimitz, NRD San Diego and USS Ingraham. Wil enjoys utilizing his strong problem solving and decision-making skills to take on whatever problems a veteran may have. He is very enthusiastic about being a Courage to Call Outreach Specialist.
Wilford “Wil” Smith
Community Liaison
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Gza Larican
Family Support Partner
Gza is a US Navy veteran that served for 12 years. She dealt with ammunition in the navy. She was stationed on the USS George Washington, USS Enterprise, NAWMU-1 and USS Carl Vinson. She is passionate about helping her fellow veterans with information about their benefits.
Gza Larican
Family Support Partner
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Mateo Montell
Originally from Southeastern Ohio, Mateo came to San Diego by way of the Marine Corps in 2004. After the completion of his service as an Amphibious Assault Vehicle Crewman, he obtained his bachelor’s degree from San Diego State University, and master’s degree from Point Loma Nazarene University with a concentration in Exercise Science. He began his career as a Clinical Exercise Physiologist working in preventive medicine helping others achieve their health and wellness goals. As the founder and program manager for Have A Ball Project, Mateo drives the projects mission of providing healthy, sustainable, and educational resources to youth and organizations around the world. When Mateo is not working on his nonprofit, you will likely find him living an active lifestyle camping, hiking, surfing, or grappling in Jiu jitsu.
Mateo Montell
Outreach Specialist
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Master Chief Luna Pineda
Master Chief Luna Pineda is a dedicated Veteran Emotional Support Dog at Courage to Call. She offers comfort, companionship, and a calming presence to veterans, active-duty service members, and their families.
With her gentle demeanor and intuitive nature, Luna helps reduce stress and anxiety, making every interaction a little brighter.
Whether greeting visitors, attending community events, or simply providing a quiet moment of reassurance, Luna’s mission is to ensure no veteran feels alone. Off duty, she enjoys belly rubs, exploring the outdoors, and plenty of treats!
Master Chief Luna Pineda
Veteran Emotional Support Dog
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Administrative
Stephanie Rodriguez
Stephanie is a former Marine Spouse who grew up in a military family. She’s actively involved in the community and helps local non-profits with Social Media Exposure, like the Veteran’s Art Project. She has even inputted ideas to the new Veteran’s Memorial that being built in Carlsbad, California. She connected with Courage to Call, in 2022, for Humana’s Veteran’s Health Resource Fair and has collaborated with Courage to Call since then. Fast forward to today Stephanie helps local Veterans gain insight on health options outside of the VA and assists two organizations, Courage to Call and the Veteran’s Art Project in assisting as many Veterans as possible.
Stephanie Rodriguez
Administrative Assistant
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Peer Specialists
Jay Antes
Military & Veteran Specialist
Jay Antes, a proud United States Army Veteran, brings a unique blend of military expertise and community dedication to his endeavors. Born and raised in the San Diego, Jay’s journey has been defined by service, education, and a profound commitment to uplifting his community.
Jay holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Criminology from Fresno State, a testament to his commitment to understanding the intricacies of law and justice. This educational background serves as a foundation for his multifaceted approach to community service.
Since 2016, Jay has been actively engaged in giving back to the community that shaped him. His focus extends beyond mere involvement; it is about making a tangible impact on the lives of those around him. Jay brings experience from key organizations such as CoreCivic & Veterans Village of San Diego (VVSD), channeling his efforts into providing essential resources for the community to thrive in the dynamic environment of San Diego.
Jay plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the people of San Diego have access to the necessary support systems. His work encompasses a wide range of initiatives, from aiding veterans in their transition to civilian life to assisting individuals in need through the diverse services offered by the organizations he partners with.
Jay Antes’s story is one of resilience, education, and a relentless commitment to community welfare. Through his efforts, he exemplifies the spirit of service, embodying the notion that true strength lies in the ability to uplift others.
Jay Antes
Military & Veterans Specialist
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Guillermo Elizondo
Military & Veteran Specialist
Guillermo has served for several years in the US Navy, with a significant portion of my tenure stationed in San Diego, where I held the position of Boatswain Mate. Guillermo’s responsibilities included collaborating with small boat units on anti-piracy and force protection operations. Currently, Guillermo resides in San Diego, having grown up in Central Valley California. Guillermo became a part of Courage to Call in October 2020. Guillermo’s dedication lies in assisting and supporting military veterans and their families.
Guillermo Elizondo
Military & Veterans Specialist
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Thomas Watson
Military & Veteran Specialist
Thomas Watson III is a Marine Corps Veteran, serving 4 years in the Supply/Logistics field from 2016-2020. Thomas discharged honorably after 4 years of service to pursue a life outside of the Marine Corps with his wife. He has previously worked on MCRD San Diego, helping with the Property Accountability of all serialized equipment on the base. Thomas is incredibly passionate about helping the Veteran and Military family communities, and has always wanted to be apart of something in service of others. Thomas likes to spend time outside of work with his wife, Guiselle, often doing activities such as going to the movies and going on dinner dates. Thomas’ hobbies include Exercising, Cooking/Baking, Video Games, and playing with his two dogs.
Thomas Watson
Military & Veterans Specialist
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