Co-Founder

Elliott Steele, Executive Director

(bilingual: English-Greek)

[email protected] 

Elliott holds a Doctorate of Jurisprudence from Drake University, as well as Bachelors degree in Economics and Political Science from the University of Wisconsin.  Before founding Vincent House, Elliott was the Administrative Director of Support Services at University Community Hospital in Tampa.

Co-Founder

Dianne Steele, Assistant Director

[email protected]

Dianne has a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine from Iowa State University.  She owned Steele Animal Hospital until April of 2000 when she sold it to advocate for and co-found Vincent House.

Kim Belanger, Office Manager

Kim graduated from Eckerd College with a Bachelors of Arts degree in Business Management and holds an Associate’s degree in Hospitality Management.  Prior work experience includes 15 years as a catering and event meeting planner, in addition to a number of years in executive administration.

"I am excited to be a part of the family at Vincent House.  It is exhilarating to see the transforming of lives and the restoring of hope on a daily basis."

Jacki Betz, Rehabilitation Specialist

Jacki attended Eckerd College of St. Petersburg, Fl where she earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology. After volunteering with the National Alliance of Mental Illness she developed a passion in helping those with mental illnesses. “I love what the Vincent House stands for and am happy to have become a part of this team.”

Elouris Damatta, Rehabilitation Specialist

 Elouris graduated from Everest University with a Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice.  She received her Security Officer Certification from Burn's International Security School, and her Certification to be a Patrol Officer from Pinkerton Security.  She gained extensive knowledge about substance abuse and the legal system while at Everest University.  She is a great problem solver, with a keen attention to detail, a strong team player who excels at training and development.  She is a true leader who cares about her work and output and always goes above and beyond the call of duty.  Her previous work experience has encouraged her to become the leader she is today as she was the top Deli Manager at Sweetbay, an excellent leader and manager at Food Lion, and the Lead Baker for USF Dining Services.  She has great patience and the ambition to learn and develop into a counselor.  Vincent House will allow her to develop these skills and provide her with the stepping stone to become a clinician.  Elouris is happy to be a part of the Vincent House team.

Celeste Eisenhard, Rehabilitation Specialist

 Celeste is a graduate of the University of South Florida and earned her Bachelors of Arts in English Literature with a concentration in transcendentalism and creative writing.  She is currently a graduate student of mental health counseling with research interests in humanistic psychology and mindfulness.  While volunteering for Habitat for Humanity and the American Red Cross, Celeste learned to combine her heart with skills to promote strength in individuals and communities.  “Lives are changing at Vincent House through genuine relationships and meaningful work.  I feel grateful to be part of this extraordinary experience.”

Ligia Gomez, Program Coordinator

(bilingual: English-Spanish)

Ligia, originally from Medellín, Colombia, completed her undergraduate degree in Psychobiology at the University of Miami. After working in child injury prevention and adolescent abuse for three years, she decided to pursue a master´s degree in public health, gaining experience in immigrant health issues and research capacity strengthening in developing countries. Her approach to public health is motivated by a desire to strengthen individuals and communities through a holistic understanding of health – one that integrates physical, mental, emotional and social wellbeing and development. “The Vincent House community is grounded in hope and a strong belief in everyone´s capacity for growth. It is a privilege to learn within and contribute to this experience.”

Jeffrey Jean, Rehabilitation Specialist

Jeffrey graduated from the University of Florida in Gainesville with a Bachelors of Science in Psychology. He was born in Port-au-Prince, Haiti and has lived in Florida for 16 years. Jeffrey brings his youthful energy, computer expertise and a strong desire to support the recovery process of our members.  “Vincent House is a unique organization with a unique approach that works, and I am honored to be a part of it.”

Katina Karagiannakis,

Program Director Vocational and Counseling Servives

Katina graduated from St. Lawrence University with a Bachelors degree in psychology.  After working at Vincent House from 2003-2004 she resigned to attend Marymount University in Arlington, VA.  There she obtained her Masters degree in Community Counseling.  After four years of living in Charlotte, NC and working as a licensed professional counselor she recently rejoined the Vincent House family.

Sondra Kopit, Rehabilitation Specialist

Sondra is a graduate of St. Petersburg College where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Health Services Administration.  After taking numerous Human Services classes and interning with Vincent House she knew there was no where else she rather be. “Vincent House is all about dignity and respect; I am blessed to be a part of such an amazing organization.”

Jodi Matson, Rehabilitation Specialist

Jodi is a graduate of the University of South Florida with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. After college, she spent 2 years employed as a vocational evaluator for those with mental/emotional illnesses. Jodi then devoted her next 20 years as a full time mother of three. Throughout those years, she worked part time (mostly in the non-profit sector) as a substitute teacher, assistant camp director, religious school administrator & tutor, and program assistant. Jodi is passionate towards helping to enrich the lives of others as it is a deep, innate part of who she is.

 “I was drawn to Vincent House the very first time I entered the doors. I am thrilled and honored to be a part of this incredibly unique and amazing community.”

Jodi-lee Weiss, Senior Employment Specialist

Jodi-lee graduated from Syracuse University where she studied Theater and English.  After spending several years traveling and performing, she settled in Santa Cruz, CA where she first began serving adults with mental illness.  An avid runner and health enthusiast, she is interested in the connection between physical and mental health.  "I am proud and excited to be working with an agency that feels so closely aligned with my personal views on mental health."

Heather Young, Employment Specialist

Heather graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor’s in Social Work. After volunteering at an Adult Group Home she realized her passion was in the mental health field. She has the determination and drive to provide the services needed to help those who are underserved. “Vincent House is an agency whose values and mission are unlike others. The agency provides wonderful services and the members become part of a life-long family. I am honored to work at an agency this passionate and genuine in what they provide.”

William McKeever, Program Coordinator

(bilingual: English-Spanish)

After 6 years of working alongside staff and members, William has become a true believer in our Recovery through Work Partnership. Prior to Vincent House, he spent much of his adult life working in educational and humanitarian missions in Peru. "Vincent House is a remarkable community, built on hope, respect and a firm belief in the potential of every person.  Vincent House is changing the world of mental illness, one life at a time. I am honored to belong to this community.”

Stacy Freskos, "Staff Emeritus"

(bilingual: English-Greek)

Stacy was one of the first staff to be hired at Vincent House.  Stacy served Vincent House well for over six years as well as being a member of NAMI.  Stacy has recently retired from Clubhouse, but remains actively supporting our Clubhouse community

. 

In appreciation of your loyalty, dedication, and unwavering commitment to our Clubhouse mission.  You have deeply touched our lives with your wisdom, humor and guidance.  With your help, Vincent House was created and the legacy you leave remains dear to our hearts. 

With all our love,

Vincent House Staff and Members