Board
Alex Reyes
President
State Council on Developmental Disabilities
Alex Reyes is the proud owner of DJ Alex Reyes Entertainment based in Fremont he offers Mobile DJ Sound Reinforcement and Uplight services since Jan 1 2001 If you want more info visit www.djalexreyes.com also on Facebook Twitter Instagram @djalexreyes #djalexreyes
On Mar 30 Gov Gavin Newsom appointed Alex Reyes to sit on the California State Council on Developmental Disabilities proudly representing the SF Bay Area region he has Cerebral Palsy (CP) but despite his disability he lives his life to the fullest If you want more info visit www.scdd.ca.gov also on Facebook Twitter Instagram @Calscdd In his spare time he love to travel hangout with his friends attend a sports event and play music to destress
Council Member Pamela Campos
Vice President
San Jose City Council District 1
Pamela Campos is a Bay Area native, proudly born and raised in San José, CA. She is a second-generation immigrant whose family developed roots in the South Bay. Working as an educator for over a decade, Pamela specializes in policy and advocacy that ensures the needs of children, seniors, and women are included in community development projects. She is a dedicated leader who places the needs of young children, their families, and underrepresented marginalized BIPOC communities at the forefront of her vision towards an equitable future. Pamela holds a B.A. in Child and Adolescent Development from SJSU and currently serves as Chair of the Policy Advisory Council for the Metropolitan Transportation Commission.
Sarah Miller
Treasurer
California Action Climate Action Corps
‘Miller’ is an ecological steward based in South Santa Clara County, whose passion revolves around environmental and social justice. They focus on local California native plant communities, permaculture design, ecological land stewardship and whole-systems consultations through their mission to serve all beings in the name of these values while building a connected and inclusive community. Their LGBTQIA-affirming, not-for-profit business Azadi86 provides a safe and welcoming space for all identities to explore their connection with themselves, others, and the planet in order to take climate action.
Their commitment to sustainability, education, and healthy ecological land use practices informs all their initiatives, ranging from environmental preservation to community-supported agriculture and urban greening. Currently, Miller is honored to serve as a Fellow with the California Climate Action Corps, furthering her dedication to creating positive environmental change. Her expertise spans various areas, including rainwater harvesting, bioswales, natural building, herbal remedies, backpacking, fire mimicry, tree health, agroforestry, edible landscaping, and community connection. This holistic approach reflects Miller's vision for a free, peaceful, connected, and ecologically just future, as she believes in creating a more resilient, equitable, and sustainable world while fostering healing and empowerment for all.
Sarah honors and recognizes the people who have come before her, those who are currently alongside her, and those who will follow in their footsteps. Without them, they are not her. Sarah's deep connection to nature was shared with her mother, who introduced her to Saved by Nature by participating in the Senior Hikes. Through these experiences, they have developed a greater appreciation for the natural world and the importance of preserving it for future generations. She continues to participate in Senior Hikes to hear and learn from other individuals with powerful stories. She actively engages in ecological justice, raising awareness, advocating for Mother Earth, and promoting sustainable practices in their shared communities.
Robert Avila
Secretary
Restore and Hope
Chief Executive Officer and Certified Financial Advisor
Robert Avila began his career in real estate, helping low-income communities of color refinance or purchase their homes. Through time Robert realized that historical injustices including home inheritance, financial savings and credit scores were plaguing most families that come from ethnically diverse backgrounds. Wanting to make a difference in his community Robert decided to study credit repair as a protégé. He would eventually start his own company with a goal of helping low-income communities of color raise their credit score through financial planning and literacy. Robert says, “I want to help people raise their credit scores so they could get a better interest rate, lower payment, and have a better chance at affording and keeping their home long term.”
It has been a successful journey of giving back as Robert had to also work his way from financial turmoil, he now owns multiple investment properties. His customer-first focus and passion for helping people to improve their existing financial standing and credit score. Robert is a respected professional who oversees Restore and Hope, an established credit restoration agency with years of experience working in the industry that has an office in Campbell. California. You can fully trust he’ll get you back on track. Many can vouch through the years including military veterans, dentists, teachers, and many others from all walks of life.
Dayo Sobitan
Board Member
Managing Director
Dayo Shobitan brings a global leadership perspective and a strong commitment to ethical governance to the Saved By Nature Board. He currently serves as Managing Director and CEO of Geogrid Energy, with an extensive background in business strategy, management consulting, and cross-sector leadership.
Over the past two decades, Dayo has held executive roles across industries including engineering, renewable energy, trade, and nonprofit governance. He is a Certified Management Consultant (CMC) and a Member of the Institute of Directors (MIOD), widely respected for his expertise in financial stewardship, collaborative leadership, and board development.
As part of his early contributions, Dayo is working closely with the Executive Director and a volunteer scenario planner to co-develop a refreshed Board Member Onboarding and Role Clarity Program—a key step in strengthening team alignment and capacity. His thoughtful approach and global insight will be instrumental as Saved By Nature launches its first major fundraising campaign.
Lyle van Tonder
Board Member
Digital Marketing Specialist
I joined Saved By Nature’s Board in June 2025, bringing my expertise in Google Ads and analytics to support the organization’s mission of connecting underrepresented communities with the healing power of nature.
As a Digital Marketing Specialist, I focus on building data-driven strategies that maximize our digital reach—from optimizing the Google Ads Grant to developing high-impact donation campaigns. My goal is to ensure every marketing effort drives measurable results and supports SBN’s mission in a meaningful way.
Equally important to me is reaching the people who need us most—communities who would benefit from outdoor experiences but may not yet know we exist. I believe smart, strategic digital marketing can break down the barriers that often stand in the way of access to the outdoors.
I’m deeply committed to environmental justice and genuinely believe that well-executed, data-informed marketing can extend a nonprofit’s reach far beyond traditional outreach methods. I serve on SBN’s board as a volunteer, driven by a passion to help more people discover the life-changing impact of nature.
Ajith Chandran
Board Member
Cisco
“In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.” – John Muir
Please join us in welcoming Ajith Chandran to the Saved By Nature Board!
Ajith brings nearly 25 years of technology leadership from Fortune 500 companies, along with five patents and publications in AI, networking, and wireless systems. He’s passionate about using artificial intelligence to drive impact—and that’s exactly what he hopes to do at Saved By Nature.
Our mission to democratize access to the outdoors resonates deeply with Ajith’s belief that nature’s transformative power should know no boundaries. He’s excited to explore how AI can help craft data-backed grant proposals, streamline operations, and expand inclusive programs for diverse communities.
A lifelong nature enthusiast, Ajith has traveled with his wife and daughter across six continents and over 25 countries—including visits to more than 45 U.S. national parks and monuments. His cross-country road trips were fueled by a love of nature’s beauty and the joy of connecting with people along the way.
He’s also a dedicated volunteer who has served on hackathon committees and supported organizations focused on youth with special needs. Ajith believes nature offers these children a place to calm, grow, and thrive. He is grateful to contribute his skills and passion to Saved By Nature’s mission, ensuring nature’s goodness reaches all.
Ekam Dot
Board Member
High School Student
Ekam is a passionate youth leader and changemaker with a strong commitment to environmental sustainability, social justice, and community empowerment. As the founder of the second-ever climate science club in California, he has mobilized peers around climate awareness and action. He placed 20th out of 50,000 participants in the Climate Science Olympiad, demonstrating both depth of knowledge and global perspective. Ekam's dedication to civic engagement is evident through his involvement with the ACLU in efforts to clean California streets and his selection as one of eight local ambassadors for Teach Her, where he helped raise funds for the education of orphaned girls in India.
Beyond advocacy, Ekam has shown a deep compassion for others, tutoring refugee students across the U.S. for over a year and a half, supporting a Sikh Temple's fundraising campaigns, and caring for a school garden to foster early environmental learning. His work ethic is reflected in his summer volunteer stint at a local waterpark front desk, clocking in three hours every weekday. With every endeavor, Ekam continues to build bridges between science, service, and storytelling to uplift the communities he serves.
Roger Castillo
Past Treasurer
Steelhead Salmon Restoration Group
Roger Castillo is a citizen naturalist who grew up in the San Jose area and has walked along portions of local rivers and creeks for the past 30 years. As a "river guardian", he observes and records the changes in the Guadalupe and other local river systems that flow to the San Francisco Bay estuaries. Director Castillo discovered the remains of "Lupe" – a young Columbian Mammoth that lived approximately 60,000 years ago – while he and his dog Jenna were on a nature walk along the Guadalupe River. He works passionately on environmental and wildlife issues in the San Jose region, and founded the Salmon and Steelhead Restoration Group, a local organization committed to "Restoration through Education". Director Castillo was appointed by the Santa Clara Board of Supervisors to the GCRCD Board of Directors in 1999. His most recent term expired in November 2018, but he has remained active in District activities as a Director Emeritus.
A Mammoth Find
In 2005, Saved By Nature Board Treasurer and citizen scientist Roger Castillo and his dog Jenna found a bone from a Columbian mammoth while walking along the Guadalupe River.
Children's Discovery Museum Exhibit
Lupe the Mammoth Comes to Life: Science on the SPOT (YouTube)
Join the Board
BOARD OF DIRECTORS ANNOUNCEMENT
Background
Saved By Nature (SBN) is a volunteer-driven charitable 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Our mission is to inspire people of all backgrounds, ethnicities, and abilities to explore the natural wonders and recreational opportunities of the outdoors through transformative environmental education. We collaborate with partners to ensure mental, physical, and spiritual healing in nature.
Director Responsibilities
The Board meets twelve times a year, holds planning sessions as agreed, and serves without compensation.
Board Membership Requirements & Term Limits
Each member of the Board of Directors must be a formal member of the Corporation, maintaining annual membership dues of $100 paid in full by March 15th or through monthly payments by the 15th of each month.
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Newly elected board members (who have not previously served) will begin with an initial one-year term.
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Following the one-year term, board members may serve additional three-year terms upon re-election.
Board Member Responsibilities & Expectations
Board members play a critical role in shaping the vision, strategy, and sustainability of Saved By Nature. They actively champion the organization’s mission, ensuring it remains strong, purpose-driven, and committed to expanding equitable access to nature.
✅ Leadership & Strategic Guidance – Providing oversight to ensure organizational success.
✅ Executive Director Support – Assisting in the implementation of programs and initiatives.
✅ Community Representation & Advocacy – Promoting Saved By Nature’s mission and fostering inclusive outreach.
✅ Fundraising & Resource Development – Supporting financial sustainability through membership dues, securing donations, and sponsorships.
✅ Financial & Ethical Oversight – Protecting assets, ensuring responsible fiscal management, and upholding legal integrity.
✅ Program Evaluation & Growth – Monitoring progress, strengthening initiatives, and expanding community impact.
✅ Board Participation – Attending at least 9 out of 12 monthly meetings, engaging in meaningful discussions, and joining the annual board retreat.
✅ Professional Conduct & Volunteerism – Representing Saved By Nature with enthusiasm while dedicating ample volunteer time to contribute productively.
Board decisions and elections will be determined by a three-fourth vote, ensuring a thoughtful and democratic process in leadership transitions.
Qualifications
Saved By Nature seeks board members with at least two years of experience in a leadership role within business, government, environmental advocacy, or the nonprofit sector. Additional qualifications include:
✅ Minimum of two years of prior board service experience (required).
✅ Expertise in financial oversight, fundraising, program planning, or communications.
✅ Commitment to Saved By Nature’s mission of making nature accessible to all.
✅ Ability to contribute time, expertise, and resources to support organizational success.
To Apply
Interested candidates should email a Board Member Application to:
📩 Richard Tejeda, Executive Director
📧 richard@savedbynature.org
Candidates will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, and those who successfully meet our board criteria will be invited to join.