Staff - Central Outreach and Advocacy Center

Kimberly J. Parker

Executive Director

Kimberly has degrees from Barton College (BS), United States Sports Academy (MSS), and Columbia Theological Seminary (MDiv).

She worked eight years as an exercise physiologist at the University of South Alabama Cardiac Rehabilitation Program and three years in campus ministry prior to attending seminary.

Upon graduating from Columbia in 2004, Kimberly was hired for a part-time position with Central Outreach and Advocacy Center. Her job description has changed three times during her twelve years at the OAC. She was appointed Executive Director in September 2013.

Ahren Cassinari-Foster

Main Frame Coordinator

Ahren is a native of Portland, Oregon. He has a degree in philosophy and theology from Northwest Nazarene University and a Masters of Divinity from Candler School of Theology. He is completed his Masters of Social Work at University of Georgia in 2017. Ahren’s call to service outside the academy brought him to Central Outreach and Advocacy Center, where he serves as the Main Frame Coordinator for the Main Frame Job Readiness Program.

Ahren has been deeply impacted by his position at Central OAC as he learns about the challenges faced by Atlanta’s homeless population and works side-by-side with the dedicated volunteers and staff. Ahren joined the OAC Staff in January 2014.

Chattrelle Gillyard

Program Director

Originally from Tallahassee, FL, Chattrelle earned her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Georgia State University and shortly after received her Master’s degree in Social Work from Barry University in Miami, FL. She became a Licensed Master Social Worker in September 2017.

Chattrelle has four years of experience in both the mental health and substance abuse fields. She recently served with the United Way’s Another Chance Program, where she served as a case manager, working with Veterans to obtain employment and housing. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, journaling, and traveling to any city that has a local beach. Chattrelle joined the OAC staff in January of 2019.

Brenna Lakeson

Communications & Outreach Coordinator

Brenna grew up in North Carolina and attended Elon University where she studied music education and Spanish. She received her Masters of Divinity (MDiv) from Candler School of Theology at Emory University in 2016. Brenna is a United Methodist clergyperson on the path toward ordination as a Deacon.

Brenna previously completed internships with Gateway Center and Action Ministries to learn about the issue of homelessness in Atlanta. She is passionate about many issues of social justice, and is involved in anti-death penalty efforts in Georgia. Outside of her justice work, Brenna writes poetry, enjoys running and yoga, and cuddles with her 2 cats, Beyonce and Seffie. She joined the OAC staff in July of 2016.