The Express (February 2025)

THE Express

50TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL EDITION

HAGA CLIC AQUÍ PARA LEER ESTE NÚMERO EN ESPAÑOL

Shawn Jenkins, Cristian Duarte, Richard Steinberg, & Ken Ortbals

THE ORIGIN OF GUARA BI AND STORIES FROM FLORIDA, GEORGIA, IOWA, & THE PACIFIC ISLANDS!

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A PLACE TO BEGIN AGAIN

The Story of Guara Bi

By Rebecca Hernandez, Creative Services Manager, WestCare Marketing & Communications

Cristian Duarte & the residents from Hogar San José

The news came suddenly. Hogar San José, a therapeutic community center that served some of Puerto Rico’s most vulnerable, was shutting down.

Cristian Duarte, the Executive Director, sat in silence with the weight of those words settling over him like a storm cloud. Sure, it was his job, but the people he served had become like family to him. He knew them, he understood their plight... they had nowhere else to go and they were fighting so hard to rebuild their lives.

Milestones in Guara Bi’s History

And now, they were about to lose everything. Cristian’s first instinct was to look for a solution. Surely, someone had a plan. Surely, there was another shelter, another program, another place that could take them in.

There wasn’t. The thought churned in his mind, twisting in his chest. What would happen to them? Would they maintain their progress? Could they hold onto the lives they were working so hard to reclaim? He had once stood at the edge of that same uncertainty - lost, alone, unsure if his next step would be his last. Years ago, in Argentina, his own brother had pulled him

2015

2008 FIRST YEAR IMPACT Served 18 participants in its first year of operation.

OPENING OF THE CARIB FACILITY & GUARA BI DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Established to provide greater assistance to vulnerable populations in Puerto Rico.

Launched to offer support to vulnerable populations in the Dominican Republic.

FOUNDING OF GUARA BI

EXPANSION IN PUERTO RICO

WESTCARE COLLABORATION

Established in Caguas, Puerto Rico, to support individuals experiencing homelessness and those facing substance use and HIV-related challenges.

New facilities were added in Caney and Inaru, expanding the reach of services.

The merger with WestCare strengthened financial and administrative resources, ensuring long-term sustainability.

2007

The Manaya facility opened to provide assistance to women who are victims of crime.

2012

2016

3 Uplifting the Human Spirit

Mendoza Building in Caguas Before - After

from the streets and placed him in a long-term treatment program. It was there that he found stability. It was there, through healing himself, that he learned how to help others heal and discovered it was his purpose.

Cristian found a building in Caguas that had been damaged by a fire, leaving only charred walls and broken windows.

But to Cristian, that house, without doors or windows, was a place of possibility. With the little savings he had, he began restoring it, piece by piece, transforming it into a place where people could not only find shelter but also a path forward. It may not have been much, but it was something...

It was hope.

And now, sitting here, faced with the reality that these men and women were about to be abandoned, he realized something: It was his turn to be that person for someone else.

At first, Iván Mendoza, the first resident and the reason Cristian opened the shelter before renovations were even completed, became a pillar of the new community, helping to keep operations running. Eventually, after the final closure of Hogar San José, Cristian began transferring more residents.

He had no facility, no official organization, and no long-term funding - only his determination and the roof over his head.

As Hogar San José Hera shut its doors for the last time in 2007, Cristian opened his, taking its displaced residents into his home.

At first, it was only a few... those without family, just enough to fit under his roof. But word spread, and more people arrived - some seeking help, others offering whatever support they could.

With the help of Iván Moratiel, who also lost his job due to the closure of Hogar San José and stood by Cristian’s side from the beginning, they co-founded Guara Bi in both spirit and action. Fernando Moratiel, Iván’s father, and Ramón Rivera, Cristian’s father-in-law at the time, provided financial support where they could.

And now, this place needed a name. Cristian thought about (cont. page 4)

2017

2021

2025

OPENING OF THE CARIBE FACILITY

NEW CENTERS

SOUTH AMERICAN VISIT

Created to provide reintegration services and support for incarcerated individuals. An innovative program on the island and a service that had not previously been offered at Guara Bi.

The Guaitiao, Guakia, and other facilities were established to enhance community support services.

Cristian Duarte, Ken Ortbals, Shawn Jenkins, and Dick Steinberg attended the World Federation of Therapeutic Communities (WFTC) Convention in Brazil, with the goal of sharing knowledge, fostering understanding, and collaborating on rehabilitation and social reintegration efforts for individuals struggling with addiction.

OPENING OF THE BARTOLO JOY FACILITY

GROWTH CONTINUES

Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, a longterm care center for the elderly was launched.

Multiple programs, including Guali, Mariey, Inaru, and Tahiel, began operations.

Follow Our Journey!

Guara Bi

2020

2023

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WESTCARE.COM Cristian Duarte & the Guara Bi Team

what it truly was. A refuge. A space for healing. A community. That’s how he chose Guara Bi, a name in Taíno, the language of the island’s first inhabitants. “Guara” translates to “Place.” “Bi” translates to “Life.” Place of Life.

A name that symbolizes protection, care, and community.

For nearly a decade, Guara Bi operated purely on willpower, community support, and the determination of those who believed in its mission. What began as a small group of people in Cristian’s home turned into something much bigger.

A pivotal moment came when Guara Bi received its first formal funding: a $5,000 grant from the Puerto Rico Department of Family. It was a small amount, but it meant everything. It was the first official recognition of Guara Bi’s work and allowed them to formally launch services in Caguas.

But, Cristian knew something: passion and a small grant wouldn’t be enough. As the number of people grew, it became clear that one house wouldn’t hold them. Cristian needed more space - something real, something lasting.

With municipal aid, he acquired three additional properties in Vega Baja, Comerío, and Caguas, expanding Guara Bi’s services and increasing its visibility among state and federal agencies. As Guara Bi’s reputation for providing high-quality services to vulnerable communities grew, so did the funding from federal agencies, including the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), the Puerto Rico Probation Office, and the U.S. Department of Justice.

Cristian Duarte, Richard Steinberg, Paco González & unknown

Expanding Hope in the Dominican Republic The idea of expanding beyond Puerto Rico had been on Cristian’s mind for a while, but it was a 2014 visit to the Dominican Republic that made it clear - he had to do it.

Walking through the communities, he saw firsthand the lack of services for people struggling with substance use and mental health challenges. There were few resources, little infrastructure, and a vast number of people in need of support.

One year later, in 2015, that vision became a reality. Guara Bi expanded to the Dominican Republic, bringing services to a new population in need.

But Cristian didn’t do it alone. Dr. Carlos Pérez, the Dominican Republic’s Ambassador to Puerto Rico, played a crucial role in making this expansion possible. His connections helped establish relationships with local authorities and organizations, ensuring that Guara Bi could integrate into the existing system and provide effective support.

Guara Bi had grown beyond what Cristian could manage alone. He had done everything possible with the resources he had, but it was time to take the next step.

He needed a structure, an infrastructure, and a team that could help make Guara Bi sustainable for years to come.

So, he picked up the phone.

Building in the Dominican Republic

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“Dick, we need WestCare.”

On the other end of the line was Richard "Dick" Steinberg, President of WestCare - a man who had dedicated his career to helping organizations like Guara Bi expand their reach. Cristian had first met him at age 22 while working at Hogar San José.

Dick was happy to hear from his friend. He listened carefully. Cristian wasn’t asking for money - he had already secured funding. What he needed was WestCare’s expertise, structure, and knowledge in managing largescale programs.

Cristian and Dick met, and in 2016, Guara Bi officially became part of the WestCare family.

With WestCare’s accelerated.

support,

Guara

Bi’s

expansion

Among all of Guara Bi’s programs, permanent housing has been one of the most impactful, giving individuals not just a place to sleep, but a foundation upon which to rebuild their lives with dignity and independence.

For Cristian, some programs hold an even deeper personal significance. Carib, Manaya, Inaru, and Tahiel, named after his children, serve as reminders that Guara Bi is not just a service organization; it is a vision for the future.

It is about ensuring that families stay together, communities grow stronger, and future generations always have a place where healing and hope are within reach. (cont. page 6)

Guara Bi, Inaru

The partnership with WestCare made this level of growth possible. The merger not only strengthened Guara Bi’s administrative capacity, allowing for long-term planning, but also opened doors to new funding opportunities that expanded its reach.

More people could now receive care, and services were no longer limited by financial uncertainty.

Guara Bi had started as a shelter. Over time, it became an organization of healing, recovery, and lasting change.

Programs & Services: A Lifeline for Those in Need Guara Bi’s reach had expanded, but at its core, the mission remained the same: to offer a path forward. Today, the organization provides a comprehensive continuum of care, ensuring that individuals not only find a safe place to stay, but also receive the tools they need to rebuild their lives.

Guara Bi, Carib

At the heart of its services is housing, offering emergency shelter for those in immediate crisis, transitional and permanent housing for those working toward stability, and rapid rehousing programs designed to move individuals from the streets into safe homes But shelter alone is not enough. Guara Bi has also developed comprehensive treatment programs, both residential and outpatient, providing care for individuals facing substance use disorders and mental health challenges.

Beyond housing and treatment, support services play a crucial role in helping individuals reintegrate into society.

Guara Bi, Carib Ribbon Cutting

Uplifting the Human Spirit

Case management and counseling provide guidance throughout the recovery process, while legal assistance and healthcare services ensure that no one has to navigate the system alone.

A Partnership Built on Purpose

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The People Who Make It Possible While Guara Bi has grown into a thriving network of services, the true driving force behind the organization is its people.

Every counselor, case manager, housing specialist, and community worker shares the same belief that has guided Cristian from the very beginning: everyone deserves a second chance.

The work is not easy. It requires patience, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to those whom society often leaves behind. But for the people who dedicate their lives to Guara Bi’s mission, it is not just a job - it is a calling.

They are the ones standing beside people in their darkest moments, helping them find hope when they have none left, and walking with them as they rebuild their lives.

"Guara Bi would not exist without the incredible people who pour their hearts into this work every day," says Cristian.

"They are the reason we have been able to reach so many, the reason we continue to grow. Their dedication, their compassion, and their belief in our mission are what truly make the difference."

The impact of their work can be seen in the lives that have been transformed.

Cristian considers one of his greatest achievements to be seeing Iván Moratiel step into leadership roles within the organization, taking on key responsibilities that have contributed to Guara Bi’s success.

It is proof that those who once needed help can become the ones who provide it, a testament that recovery and transformation are not only possible, but sustainable.

Looking Ahead: A Future Without Borders Guara Bi has already expanded beyond Puerto Rico, leaving a lasting impact in the Dominican Republic - but Cristian and his team are thinking even bigger.

Plans are already underway to bring Guara Bi’s mission to Central and South America. Partnerships have been established in Argentina, Brazil, and Guatemala to support local organizations by connecting them with treatment programs, mental health services, and housing initiatives.

The goal is not just to expand services, but to build a network of sustainable community solutions that will last for generations.

Cristian knows that growth must be intentional and remain rooted in the same principles that have guided Guara Bi from the start.

What began as a single act of refusing to leave people behind has grown into something far greater than he ever imagined and yet, he believes this is just the beginning.

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FLORIDA:

GCC Honors Michele White as an Celebrating the Legacy of Katrina Tucker Unsung Hero in the Florida Keys

By Leslie Prewitt, Director of Community Engagement, WestCare GulfCoast Florida

A hand-drawn portrait of Katrina Tucker by a client

Katrina Tucker’s daughter speaks at her retirement ceremony

After 18 years with WestCare and over 35 in the behavioral health field, Katrina Tucker, Program Manager of A Turning Point, retired on January 31. Her leadership and compassion left a lasting impact on individuals experiencing homelessness and substance use disorders.

As a Certified Addictions Professional (CAP) since 2005, Katrina was among the first to earn lifetime status, demonstrating her commitment to excellence. At A Turning Point, she led an inebriate receiving facility and mentored an 18member team, shaping future leaders and strengthening program integrity.

Steve Blank, Regional Vice GulfCoast-Florida, shared:

President

of

WestCare

"Katrina’s legacy at WestCare is one of compassion, commitment, and transformation. She had the ability to see people’s potential and the willingness to give them an opportunity to grow. While she will be deeply missed, her contributions have laid a strong foundation for the present and future of A Turning Point, ensuring her impact will be felt for years to come."

As Katrina embarked on this next chapter, WestCare extended its deepest gratitude for her service, mentorship, and dedication, as her legacy continues to inspire those who follow in her footsteps.

Follow GulfCoast’s Journey!

By Maureen Dunleavy, Senior Vice President, Guidance/Care Center

Michele White & Maureen Dunleavy

Since 2001, the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys has hosted an annual event to recognize the dedicated service of volunteers across the region. Each year, local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations nominate an Unsung Hero to recognize an individual whose unpaid contributions have made a meaningful impact. Honorees are recognized during a celebratory luncheon and featured in all three editions of Keys Weekly throughout the county.

At this year’s event on February 7, Guidance/Care Center (GCC) proudly named Michele White as our Unsung Hero. Michele joined GCC's Community Action Council (CAC) in 2024 and has been a passionate advocate for behavioral health. Over the past year, she played a vital role in securing additional funding for The Heron, GCC’s assisted-living facility for individuals with mental illness.

Michele introduced GCC to the Grants for Good Campaign through the First Horizon Foundation, providing us with the opportunity to apply for critical funding. Thanks to her efforts, GCC was honored to receive funds for The Heron’s rebuild, ensuring this specialized housing remains safe, secure, and affordable.

We are incredibly grateful for Michele’s dedication, advocacy, and unwavering support. Thank you, Michele, for making a lasting impact in our community!

Follow GCC’s Journey!

Uplifting the Human Spirit

WESTCARE SNAPSHOT

A QUICK LOOK AT OTHER HAPPENINGS THROUGHOUT OUR WESTCARE FAMILY

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GEORGIA:

WestCare Brings Joy to the Front Door of Residents of the City of Atlanta

By Arthur Langford, Project Coordinator, WestCare Georgia

WestCare Georgia’s Drug Free Coalition partnered with the United Youth Adult Conference (UYAC) for their annual Christmas Caroling Event. Each year, UYAC spreads holiday cheer throughout Atlanta by visiting seniors, as well as those who are ill or homebound, singing Christmas carols and delivering fruit baskets. This year WestCare Georgia joined in the festivities, bringing together youth from the Drug Free Community Coalition, our Free to Recover Program, and the Rise Up Program to show our support for this meaningful cause.

WestCare Georgia

@westcarega

The day was filled with joy, carols, laughter, hugs, and heartfelt prayers for those facing health challenges. As we walked through the streets of Mechanicsville, we also took the opportunity to share information about WestCare’s impactful work and our Drug Take Back initiative.

This Christmas Eve celebration was a true reflection of WestCare’s mission of Uplifting the Human Spirit and bring hope to those in need.

IOWA:

Welcome Aboard, Heather Buck, to the Forest City Team!

Scan or click here to learn more about FAVA!

by Darrell Mayo, SSVF Veteran Advocate, FAVA Here at the Family Alliance for Veterans of America (FAVA)/WestCare Iowa, we are excited to welcome Heather Buck as the newest member of our team! She joined us in December as the data entry clerk for our Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program in Forest City, Iowa.

A proud Veteran, Heather served two tours in Iraq (2004-2005 and 2008-2009) and was honorably discharged in 2014 with the rank of E-5. As an 88M transportation specialist, she contributed significantly to military operations and logistics. Her service continues as a member of VFW Post 6161 in Leland, Iowa.

Heather holds an associate degree in Business Management & Accounting and a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Kaplan University. A Forest City native, she is excited to give back to her hometown and fellow Veterans through her work at FAVA. In her free time, Heather enjoys the companionship of her service dog, Eva Rose, and her other dogs, Bob and Calliope. She hopes to one day open an animal rescue to ensure every pet experiences love and care.

Please join us in welcoming Heather - we are honored to have her on board and look forward to the impact she will make within our organization and the Veterans community!

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Guam Homeless Coalition’s 2025 Annual Point-in-Time (PIT) Count

By Jenine Damian, Counselor, WestCare Pacific Islands

WPI and Sanctuary staff putting together resource bags in preparation for the GHC 2025 Annual PIT Count

During the month of January, WestCare Pacific Islands (WPI) had the honor of being the lead organization to coordinate and participate in the Guam Homeless Coalition’s (GHC) 2025 Annual Point-in-Time (PIT) Count. This annual event, which takes place at the beginning of every year, is an initiative aimed toward improving the quality of life for Guam’s homeless population through outreach, support, and connection to available assistance programs. This year, WPI’s Veterans programs, Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) and Path to Freedom (PTF), spearheaded efforts in logistical planning, enlisting community and organization volunteers, and coordinating donations to include hygiene products, nonperishable food commodities, and a resource directory.

The GHC Annual PIT Count aimed to survey and document both sheltered and unsheltered individuals and families to better understand the growing needs of some our island’s most vulnerable.

The survey covered important data that included demographics, contributing risk factors, and connections, if any, to current assistance programs. Outreach teams were formed to cover and survey the main villages in the island of Guam and these teams were able to connect individuals to resources, and, at the very least, provided food assistance and personal hygiene products on site. To close out the daylong event, WPI worked together with the member organizations of the GHC to finalize all outreach efforts and data collection. It is WPI’s hope that the work of our community volunteers will help the GHC’s mission to decrease homelessness in Guam and improve policies that will better align with the needs of our island people.

WPI staff on their final outreach to close out the GHC 2025 Annual PIT Count in Hagatna, Guam

Follow Our Journey!

Scan or click here to learn more about WCPI

WPI staff preparing for the morning rush of volunteers on the day of the GHC 2025 Annual PIT Count

Uplifting the Human Spirit

PACIFIC ISLANDS:

CELEBRATING 50 YEARS OF

Uplifting the Human Spirit

In celebration of 50 years of Uplifting the Human Spirit, The Express has embarked on a journey through time. Over the past year, we have been featuring the origin stories of our WestCare entities, tracing our history. Thank you for joining us on this extraordinary odyssey of discovery and inspiration.

Help us tell WestCare’s story from around the world!

Our commitment to showcasing the incredible work that makes WestCare a beacon of healing and support in our communities remains steadfast. While we are featuring the history of WestCare, we will continue to feature highlights from the remarkable journeys of individuals and groups who inspire us all. We urge you to continue to submit your stories of success, education, prevention, and healing to marketing@westcare.com. Your narratives fuel hope and contribute to our collective mission of Uplifting the Human Spirit.

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