Team

Mariah Hayden, MA, MBA, Executive Director

Mariah joined the New Life Village team in 2016 after being introduced to the charity as a volunteer. Familiar with the effects of childhood trauma from her graduate work and personal experiences, as well as with the impact that mental health challenges have on a family, Mariah found “home” in the dynamic mission of New Life Village. She is entirely dedicated to the safety and stability of the Village’s children affected by both of those realities. She learned the world of construction project management and development and began further developing New Life Village’s 12 acre campus by building more affordable housing and campus amenities in 2019. Email Mariah

In the government, private and academic sectors, Mariah has worked in marketing/communications, project management, community relations, branding, training, instruction, diversity programs management, event management and educational programming since 2000. Mariah has volunteered for the University of Tampa Alumni Association, the University of Tampa Board of Counselors as well as the Los Angeles and Tampa Chapters of the National Association of African Americans in Human Resources. She received her Bachelor’s in Communications and minor in Marketing from the University of Tampa. She went on to earn her Master’s in Communications from San Diego State University and her MBA at the W.P. Carey School of Business at Arizona State University. Mariah has completed a Certificate of Change Management and a Certificate of Nonprofit Management from the University of Tampa. She has also served as an adjunct instructor at University of Tampa and Hillsborough Community College. Mariah loves great food, traveling, live music her giant mastiffs and the outdoors.

Natalie Gomez, Program Director

Natalie oversees strategy and implementation of New Life Village’s onsite Trauma Informed Wellness, Resilience & Character Development Program. Upon welcoming residents to the Village, Natalie works to ensure all residents are connected to requested resources and supports needed to experience safety, stability, healing and growth. In partnership with NLV residents, the community, and our amazing team, Natalie strives to foster a culture which encourages community, volunteerism, and organic, healthy relationships. Prior to joining the NLV team, Natalie worked domestically and internationally in education, cultural exchange and Human Resources. Natalie enjoys trying new things, staying active, and spending quality time with her loved ones.

Natalie has a Bachelor of Science in Business and a minor in Psychology from Florida Southern College, as well as a Master’s in Nonprofit Management from the University of Central Florida. Email Natalie

Spiros Kapsaskis, Grant & Compliance Director

Spiros is responsible for managing New Life Village’s agreements with a range of funding partners. This includes developing goals for NLV and its various program offerings; ensuring that NLV continues to progress towards those targets; working with the Program team to measure and report on accomplishments; supporting contractors with meeting Davis Bacon and Section 3 requirements; income certifying residents to determine housing eligibility; overseeing NLV’s grant process; and more. He aims to provide a framework for organizational growth and for the Program team to continue to build robust, meaningful programming opportunities for Village residents.

Spiros has a master’s degree from the Bread Loaf School of English at Middlebury College. Email Spiros

Edison Graham, Marketing & Finance Manager

Edison joined the New Life Village team in the summer of 2023 as an AmeriCorps VISTA, initially serving as the Marketing & Development Manager. After completing his year of service, he transitioned to the role of Marketing & Finance Manager. In this capacity, Edison supports marketing, stewardship, and donor relations efforts to raise funds and awareness for NLV, as well as manage the organizations finances. In his free time, Edison enjoys exploring all things Tampa with his two playful pups, Hudson (3) and Delilah (2). He recently moved to Ybor City after living in Downtown Tampa for several years, embracing new beginnings.

Edison holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from the Sykes College of Business at the University of Tampa and is currently pursuing a Masters in Business Administration from the University of Miami Herbert Business School. Email Eddie

Scotty Skora, Marketing & Development Intern

Scotty is passionate about giving back to the community and has joined New Life Village as a Marketing and Development Intern this spring. In this role, he helps spread awareness and increase involvement in NLV’s mission. A Tampa native, he has always enjoyed finding ways to support and uplift those around him. When Scotty isn’t working, he loves staying active, whether it’s working out, spending time outdoors, or exploring new places. He also enjoys relaxing at the beach and taking in all that Tampa has to offer.

Scotty is currently a sophomore at the University of Tampa, pursuing a degree in Entrepreneurship at the Sykes College of Business.

Annie Hammond, Property Manager

Annie serves as the Property Manager at New Life Village, guiding families through the application process and ensuring their transitions to their new home is as smooth as possible. As the liaison between New Life Village, vendors, and residents, Annie prioritizes excellent customer services and prides herself on maintaining the beauty of the Village. Known for her ‘glass half full’ perspective and positive attitude, Annie brings a sense of optimism to her role and the community. Outside of NLV, Annie loves spending time with her family, engaging in all things DIY, and giving back to the community. She actively volunteers with organizations such as Tres Dias Tampa Bay, Fish & Company, The Hive Inclusive Community, and her local church, Reach City Church.

Annie’s dedication to her community and her passion for helping others are evident in all aspects of her life. Email Annie

Craig Clarke, Maintenance Director

Craig brings over 50 years of expertise in maintenance, construction, and rehabilitation to New Life Village as our Maintenance Manager. A native of Adrian, Michigan, and a U.S. Navy veteran, Craig has built a distinguished career defined by his commitment to quality and attention to detail. After his honorable military service, he transitioned into the construction industry, where he worked on a wide range of projects, from residential renovations to large-scale developments. Now living in Valrico, Florida, Craig is dedicated to maintaining the highest standards at New Life Village, where his experience and dedication help create a safe and nurturing environment for families. He is also a proud father of four.

Xavier ONeil, Resident Events and Volunteer Coordinator – AmeriCorps VISTA

Xavier has a passion for making a difference in the community and has taken on the role of Resident Events and Volunteer coordinator. Xavier serves as a liaison between program partners and New Life Village to facilitate activities for the residents year-round. He also coordinates meaningful volunteer opportunities at NLV and in the local community with the aim of meeting needs, creating chances for growth, and bringing about positive outcomes. When Xavier is not working, he enjoys indulging in his favorite pastimes, such as watching movies and TV shows. He is also an avid fan of long walks on the beach and finds them to be a great way to unwind after a busy day.

Xavier graduated Cum Laude from Georgia State University in 2023 with a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science. Email Xavier

Imari Earley, Resident Support Navigator – MSW Intern

Imari serves as a Resident Support Navigator on the Resident Support Team (RST) At New Life Village. Imari meets with residents monthly to discuss household wellbeing and to ensure all needs are met – big or small! This often includes mapping out household goals, assessing available resources, and supporting families in attaining timely services. Serving outside of NLV as a daycare teacher, Imari has a passion for children and working alongside their families to better any circumstance they may be facing. Imari strives to create a safe, loving, and inviting environment for all those that seek her help. In the future, Imari hopes to make a difference within her community by building relationships and striving to meet individual needs. In her free time, Imari enjoys spending time with family and friends, watching movies, being outdoors, going to the beach, and painting.

Imari graduated from the University of South Florida in 2022 with a Bachelor of Art Degree in Psychology. She is currently working towards her Master’s in Social Work at the University of South Florida. Email Imari.

Bella Guerreo, Resident Support Navigator – MSW Intern

Bella serves as a Resident Support Navigator on the Resident Support Team (RST) At New Life Village. Bella meets with households to assess household wellbeing. She works to encourage autonomy through advocacy, communication, education, and identification of service resources. Bella is very passionate and dedicated to community-based work and service. She has previous experience working with unhoused individuals in food desert areas and children with disabilities. She aims to become a licensed therapist with a special interest in trauma. In her spare time, she enjoys crafting, painting, and spending time outside in the sun at the beach.

Bella graduated from the University of South Florida with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology in 2022. She is currently working towards her Master’s in Social Work at the University of South Florida. Email Bella.