Mandy Richardson – Business Manager

I have served as Business Manager with Suncoast Youth since 2015. Prior to YFC, I spent over 20 years working in the accounting industry in the public and private sectors. My two greatest passions are family and Jesus. My husband, Todd, and two sons, Grant and Cooper, are my heart and joy. I enjoy spending time with my family, recharging in the mountains, reading historical fiction and having a front row seat to our boys discovering who God created them to be.

NATALIE ROESCHLAUB – MIDDLE SCHOOL SITE DIRECTOR

Hello! My name is Natalie and I am honored to be part of Suncoast Youth For Christ. I started out as a volunteer for several years and then began working part time for this awesome organization in 2024. I am the Middle School Site Director at The 180 House | Venice. I love being able to shine a bit of light into the darkness, give hope, and encourage our local students to seek The Truth through Jesus Christ all while having a ton of fun!

My husband and oldest daughter are volunteering alongside me for The 180 House ministry. My two younger children are students in The 180 House ministry.

In addition to working for Suncoast YFC, I am a middle school PE teacher and a local lifeguard/swim instructor, all positions I love! The Lord has given me the opportunity to include many of my students in our family lifestyle of serving Him, by sharing time with them at the beach, on the boat, on the skate ramp, in the pool and many other cool places! Jesus is the Living Water, stay hydrated and don’t forget to share your smile🤙

Mark Wiles – Executive Director

I first discovered YFC through my wife, Katy, when she was leading a Parent Life group in Palm Beach County. It was through seeing the incredible need for this next generation to hear the gospel firsthand that I then felt God leading me to make a career change. He called me away from the business world to full time ministry with YFC in June 2008. It has been an incredible ride so far. From the early years of serving as a Campus Life Director reaching teens at Palm Beach Central High School to following God’s call to relocate to Suncoast YFC in 2014 and, as of April 2025, serving as the Executive Director, the job descriptions may have changed but the desperate needs of our youth have not. We are passionate about seeing young people surrender to Christ and become lifelong followers in His kingdom.

Katy and I were married in 2004 and have 4 children (Ethan, Liam, Grant and Grace). We’re members of Lakewood Ranch Baptist Church and have a passion for serving in both our church and local community. As a family, we spend a lot of time outdoors (particularly beaches and theme parks) but aside from family fun, my main interests are kayak fishing, RC cars and gaming. As a University of Miami alum, I bleed orange and green for the Hurricanes and look forward to college football season each year.

Rob Robinson – Board Chairman

It’s been a privilege to have been involved with YFC for now some 33 years from helping to start a Campus Life in Downers Grove, IL to now serving as Chairman of the Board of Suncoast.  Our journeys are all unique but the question of where the youth of today will spend eternity is one of the why’s of my continued YFC ministry involvement.  With the leadership reins being transferred last year, 2026 marks the first full year in more than 40 that Suncoast’s vision will be driven by a new Executive Director. That is EXCITING.  The west coast of Florida has exploded and therein lies the newest growth challenge for us.  More 11-19 year olds means more opportunities to teach and spread HIS WORD. The fields are ripe but the workers are few. So, get excited, and when the Spirit says check us out, do it! You are needed in prayer, financial support and hands and feet.  I may be in my final quarter and so may be you. And??? Want to change lives, finish strong, receive more than you can possibly give, then join with us. Is the Spirit calling?! Listen and obey. Blessings.

Rebekah Obber – Director of Mission Engagement

My husband, Dan, is responsible for igniting my passion for youth ministry. When he first proposed having a small group for high school students in our home, I felt more than a little intimidated. What I soon realized is that all young people have a deep need for caring, interested adults in their lives – regardless of their home life or circumstances. This is even more true for youth living at the edges – those who feel completely unseen.

My connection with YFC started as a volunteer – bringing coffee early Friday mornings to Manatee High School for Breakfast Club. After 6 years of volunteering, I joined the staff as Director of Communications. Each month I get to share the stories of how God is impacting the lives of teens from Venice to Palmetto through the faithful efforts of our volunteers and staff. It is such joyful work!

When I am not at work, I enjoy time at the beach, camping, reading, home remodeling projects, and discovering the joys of grandparenting with my grandkids – Derek Mathias and Luciana Marie. We have three grown children, Derek (married to Mayi), Brennan, and Ryley. Originally from Minnesota, we have called Bradenton home since 2003. The ocean beats the snow, hands down!

Shelby Gil – Ministry Advancement Specialist

Hey there! My name is Shelby and I am so passionate about the ministry of Youth for Christ and getting to see young lives changed because of Jesus!

I began as a very part-time assistant in May 2021 at one of our teen centers and then took over as Director full-time in September 2022. As of July 2025, I have now transitioned into working more behind the scenes with administrative needs as well as grant writing for our ministry. It has been a blessing to be able to be on the front lines and also in the background using my gifts in different seasons.

Some fun things about me – I love being by or on the water – the ocean is my “Eden” and where I often am able to experience the Lord more deeply! I married the love of my life in February 2022 and getting to do life and ministry with my best friend is the best thing ever! We welcomed our first pride and joy, Jediah, in 2023 and it is the best gift to be his parents. We are welcoming our newest pride and joy this October and could not be more grateful. Thank you Jesus for these precious lives!

Both my husband and I became serious about the Lord in our teen years because of the many mentors and Jesus-following adults who poured into our lives.
Because I was so impacted by these adults when I was a teen, it has definitely given me a passion to serve the next generations of young people for the purpose of knowing Jesus. I have always had a special soft spot in my heart for the students who make you work hard to love them, which is exactly the tribe we are able to connect to and build relationships with in Youth for Christ. Youth for Christ has a unique and creative way of sharing Jesus with young people who may feel disconnected from the church or have a twisted perception of who Jesus really is. It is such an honor to break these barriers and love these teens to The Truth.

Barb Ketterman – Office Manager

I have been serving in the YFC Office since 2023. What a privilege it is to support such a loving, gifted group of leaders that are changing the lives of our youth one day at a time. My passion in this role is not just to help with administrative duties, but to lift them daily in prayer and the beautiful young lives that they touch with hope and a future.

My husband, Roger, and I have two grown children and five grandchildren. When not working I love to spend time with my family, go to the beach, see sunsets, walk, relax with my husband over a good cup of coffee and read.

Bonnie Caulson

My husband, Ryan, and I have been blessed to be married 14 years. I like to travel, relax with our 3 cats, and serve alongside my husband together in our local church, and with other Christ centered nonprofits in the area that are doing good works. We have supported Youth for Christ because they are bringing the gospel to students, and they believe no youth is unworthy of the effort and no issues are too difficult to work through in order to share about Jesus.

It has been our privilege to serve together at YFC camp, with Life Choices on campus, and in the Manatee detention center. Serving on the board at Youth for Christ is an honor and has helped me serve God, His people, the amazing staff at Suncoast YFC, and the vulnerable youth in the area!

Carlos Portillo – Chief Ministry Officer

I serve Suncoast Youth for Christ as Chief Ministry Officer. I am a graduate of Nazarene Bible College and have been serving in youth ministry for over 14 years.

I married my incredible wife, Kalli, in 2019, and we have two little chihuahuas; Teeka & Taco. I am totally passionate about speaking truth and life to teenagers and seeing them say “yes” to Jesus.

My current role is working with youth living at the margins of life. Those that are failing school, in juvenile detention centers, on probation, addicted to drugs, in gangs, are teen parents, and who struggle with trauma. I believe that every teenager deserves somebody standing in their corner and I will fight injustice in any of their lives. I am a fierce advocate for youth having mentors and community.

Prior to YFC, I have been a youth pastor, college pastor, discipleship pastor, interim pastor & preaching pastor in Kansas City, Bradenton, and Tampa. I love to read, lift weights, travel all over the world, run, and eat.

Davon White – Juvenile Justice Ministry Director

Hello, my name is Davon White. I am deeply committed to working with teens, particularly those facing challenging circumstances. As the Aftercare Director for Juvenile Justice at Youth for Christ, I dedicate myself to mentoring and guiding young people, helping them discover hope and purpose in their lives. My passion for youth ministry fuels my mission to make a lasting impact on the next generation.
Beyond my professional role, I cherish spending quality time with my family, often enjoying vacations by the ocean. As a pastor and Christian musician, I have been blessed with the opportunity to minister to thousands globally, witnessing firsthand the transformative power of God in their lives. My journey is made possible by the unwavering love and support of my wife of 21 years and our four wonderful children.

Edrick Gil – Director of Middle School Ministries

I was born and raised in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, in a family that has been involved in missions. I’m the youngest of three brothers, and our entire family are involved in ministry in one way or another.

My wife, Shelby, and I had our first baby in October 2023, and it has been an awesome opportunity to work together in ministry as a family and bring Jediah alongside us. I’m also a graduate of Word of Life Bible Institute in NY where God showed me my passion for youth ministries.

I got involved with Youth for Christ when I first moved to the USA. Since I was not able to work while waiting for my paperwork to be finalized, I volunteered at the 180 House where my wife was working at the time. After about a year and a half, the opportunity to join the staff was presented to me, and I’ve been working on staff since June 2023.

One of my passions is showing youth that we can have fun while having a relationship with the Lord. I experience so much joy when students experience the hope Jesus brings and let their walls down. I also know it took a village for me to be where I am today and I want to be part of that village for the students.

Julia Villacis – Women’s Ministry Director

Greetings, I am Julia Villacis, a devoted wife and mother of three sons. With my husband’s steadfast support, I have spent over five years as a volunteer, sharing the hope of Jesus with the often-forgotten youth at the Juvenile Justice Center. Today, as Women’s Ministry Director with Youth for Christ, my calling has expanded to minister to women of all ages—including teenage girls in high school and young moms navigating early motherhood.
Transforming lives, one heart at a time: Whether working with youth in detention, mentoring teen girls in school, or walking alongside young mothers, I believe in the power of God’s love to restore, renew, and redirect. My mission is to help each young woman discover her identity in Christ, break free from generational cycles, and step confidently into her God-given purpose.

Bo Mott – Treasurer

I was introduced to Suncoast Youth for Christ in the 1990’s by my wife, Deborah, who had been involved with summer water sports camps. We have been financial supporters for many years and have been blessed to see the growth of the clubs and their faithful presentation of the Gospel message and the love of Christ.

I received my BS and JD degrees from the University of Florida. After serving in the USAF for 4 years as a Judge Advocate, I worked for 27 years as a trust officer for Northern Trust Bank. During those 27 years, I had the opportunity to work with a number of private foundations and charitable organizations. I was instrumental in establishing policies and practices for these entities. With my retirement, I am eager to put this knowledge to work for Suncoast Youth for Christ. My wife and I are blessed with two sons, two daughters-in-law, and two young grandsons. We enjoy spending time with family and helping with our grandsons.

Christina Gerken – Board Member

Christina is a Global Convener, Philanthropic Innovator, Transformative Connector, and Strategic Developer with over 28 years of strategy development and program implementation. She has a proven track record of transforming cultures while facilitating, connecting and collaborating with teams to attain a higher standard of excellence. Skilled at assessing various levels of business, streamlining new and current programs, projects, and curriculums across a variety of Organizations and Corporations.  Christina was honored with the prestigious Presidential Lifetime Achievement Awards and the Presidential Gold Volunteer Awards. She has volunteered and sat on Boards for various organizations and corporations throughout her professional career. Christina is honored to be on SYFC Board of Directors. She is passionate about connecting entities and organizations across all sectors together with a specific focus on profound community impact which includes SYFC. Christina and her family are blessed to call the Suncoast Region home.

Janice DeKlavon – Board Member

I am blessed to have been raised in a Christian home and am married to a Godly man. We have two daughters and three grandsons. My husband and I have had the opportunity to be involved in ministry, separately, and then as he pastored churches. Now we are retired – sort of. I am a nurse, working part time in a surgery center. Both Bob and I were involved with YFC in Miami after college and are supporters of this ministry, which reaches kids in their communities. It has been my privilege to sit on the boards of several Christian organizations and help to guide them through great success and difficult transitions. I am honored to be asked to serve on the SYFC board and look forward to celebrating God at work in Manatee County, Sarasota County – and beyond.

Rachel Apple – Board Member

I am a woman redeemed, restored, and rooted in Christ. My life is built on faith, family, and the unshakable goodness of God. I have been married to my best friend, Charlie Apple, for 22 beautiful years — and we’ve been walking life together for 26 years. Through every season, God has been the center of our covenant, the glue that strengthens us, and the grace that carries us.

I am the blessed mother of four incredible children — three daughters and one amazing son. My son ❤️ is married and building a beautiful life in Michigan with my precious grandbaby. Watching him step into manhood and fatherhood has been one of my greatest joys. My three girls absolutely keep me on my toes! They fill my days with laughter, growth, stretching, and purpose.

Two of my four children are verbally adopted, and they have been some of the greatest blessings God has ever entrusted to me. Through them, the Lord has given me a deeper understanding of the foster system, adoption, and the sacred truth that life doesn’t always unfold by our own choices. Sometimes it’s not about what we planned — it’s about where God places us to refine us, stretch us, and grow our hearts. He puts us in situations not to break us, but to build us. Not to burden us, but to bless us in ways we never imagined.

Motherhood has taught me surrender. Marriage has taught me covenant. Adoption has taught me compassion. And Christ has taught me that every chapter — even the unexpected ones — are written with purpose.

I am a woman of faith, a wife devoted, a mother grateful, and a servant willing. My story is not perfect, but it is His. And for that, I give Him all the glory. ❤️

Grantley McLeod – Board Member

My name is Grantley McLeod, and I am a coach, consultant, trainer, and mentor with over two decades of experience helping individuals grow, heal, and move forward with purpose. With more than 15 years of pastoral care experience, I guide people through life’s challenges and personal breakthroughs using a holistic approach that nurtures the mind, body, spirit, and purpose.

Faith remains at the center of my work, providing hope, strength, and clarity for those seeking meaningful change. Through coaching, mentorship and leadership development, I am committed to helping others rediscover their purpose and step confidently into the life they were created to live.

My wife, Joyce, and I have been married for 38 years, and we are blessed with four amazing grandchildren. We love to travel and cherish creating meaningful memories with family. I am also honored to serve on the Board of Directors of SYFC, continuing my commitment to leadership, service, and community impact.

Valerie McLaughlin – Venice Ministry Site Director

I grew up in Omaha, Nebraska, where a high school ministry profoundly impacted my life. Through that experience, God ignited a passion for investing in young people that has shaped every season since. I began serving and leading within that ministry throughout college and continued in ministry alongside my husband as he served in youth ministry at several churches.

After a brief season in Colorado partnering with local ministries, God led us back to Nebraska, where my husband became the Youth and Family Pastor at a local church. We purchased a beautiful old Dutch Colonial home just outside the city and quickly fell in love with the people in our community. Out of that love, God called us to plant a church.

He faithfully provided an old funeral home, which we transformed into a Life House—a welcoming space where students could gather, build relationships, and experience the love of Christ. We also hosted community-wide Fifth Quarter events after high school football games, creating a place where young people felt welcomed, known, and valued.

A few years later, we planted a second church in a neighboring town after acquiring and renovating an old grocery store. There, too, we continued serving the community through Fifth Quarter events and intentional outreach to students and families. My husband coached local sports, and I worked as a substitute teacher, allowing us to build meaningful relationships with students and their families both inside and outside the classroom.

Two and a half years ago, God called our family to take another step of faith, and we moved to Venice, Florida, with our four children.

While ministry has looked different in every season, one thing has remained constant: a deep desire to invest in young people and help them discover the abundant life found in Jesus.

When we’re not serving, our family loves exploring new coffee shops, creating our own specialty matcha drinks at home, and enjoying whatever my husband is cooking—which, in our opinion, is better than any restaurant. Life is also made more entertaining by our quirky pug, Pugsley, and our opinionated miniature pinscher, Henry.

Mike McLaughlin – Director of High School Ministries

I grew up in Omaha, Nebraska, where athletics and the influence of caring mentors played a significant role in shaping my life. During those years, God began cultivating in me a passion for reaching teenagers—a calling that has now led to more than 20 years of ministry. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of serving students in churches, schools, camps, athletic programs, and communities, helping young people discover the hope, identity, and purpose found in Jesus.

Over the past two decades, I’ve served as a youth pastor, family pastor, church planter, coach, and leader developer. My wife, Valerie, and I planted two churches in Nebraska with a simple vision: to create places where people could belong before they believed. In one community, we transformed an old funeral home into a Life House—a place where students could gather throughout the week, build friendships, and encounter caring adults who were willing to invest in their lives. We hosted Fifth Quarter events after high school football games and created opportunities for mentoring, discipleship, and authentic relationships. Later, we planted a second church in a neighboring community, continuing our commitment to serving families and investing in the next generation.

Through every season of ministry, one conviction has remained constant: teenagers don’t need another program as much as they need trusted adults who consistently show up, listen well, and point them to Jesus. Whether coaching athletes, equipping volunteers, discipling student leaders, or partnering with parents and churches, my greatest joy has been walking alongside young people and helping them take their next step toward Christ.

Two and a half years ago, God led our family to Venice, Florida, where we continued serving students and families while praying and seeking His direction for what was next. Today, I have the privilege of serving as the Campus Life Director of High School Ministries with Youth For Christ. In this role, I’m passionate about building meaningful partnerships with schools, churches, parents, and community leaders so that more teenagers can experience authentic relationships with caring adults and hear the life-changing message of Jesus.

Valerie and I have been married for 19 years and are blessed with four incredible children. As a family, we love opening our home, gathering around the table for meals, cheering our kids on in their activities, exploring local coffee shops, and simply enjoying life together. We believe some of the most meaningful ministry happens through ordinary, everyday relationships, and we’re grateful for every opportunity God gives us to invest in the next generation.

Toni Warning – Executive Assistant

Hi there! I’m so incredibly thankful for the opportunity to serve on staff with Suncoast Youth for Christ. My relationship with Jesus has always been a huge part of who I am, but over the past few years, God began stirring something new in my heart – a deeper desire to use the gifts He’s given me to serve Him and make an eternal impact. After a season of praying, waiting, and learning to trust His timing, God opened the door to YFC in a way that was so unmistakably Him that I couldn’t help but say yes. What started as a simple job application became a beautiful reminder that God is always working behind the scenes, even when we can’t see what He’s doing.

I’m especially excited to be here because I get to use the skills and experiences God has given me in a place that exists to share the love of Jesus with young people. Before joining YFC, I obtained my bachelor’s degree in HR Management, completed my SHRM-CP certification, and spent more than 4 years working in Talent Acquisition, Compensation, Recruitment, and Onboarding, where I discovered just how much I love people, relationships, organization, and helping others feel supported and valued. I’m grateful to bring those gifts into this new season; not just to help things run smoothly behind the scenes, but to serve the people God has called to go out and reach students with the Gospel. I truly believe that every role in ministry matters, and I’m excited to see how God uses mine.

Outside of work, you’ll usually find me spending time with my husband, family, and friends, exploring somewhere new, or hanging out with our pets (we have 2 very spoiled pups and 1 cat). Currently I’m part of the Worship Team at Legacy Church and have been involved in both their Worship and Administrative team for the last 2 years. I’m happily married to my high school sweetheart, and we’re hoping to begin training to become foster parents over the next year. I love meeting new people and hearing their stories. More than anything, I’m grateful for where God has brought me and excited for this next chapter. I’m praying that this season would be marked by faithfulness, joy, and a willingness to follow wherever He leads – I can’t wait to see what He does through Suncoast YFC!