Janet Hocutt-Hairston, Founder & Executive Director
After more than a combined 25 years of tenure in the corporate and non-profit sector, Janet decided to follow her passion for serving others by founding the Advocacy to Alleviate Homelessness, in 2014.  Since that time she has spent countless hours addressing the needs of the community. She is a professional and community coach, grassroots organizer, and an honorary clinical instructor for Walden University. Her work with the homeless has been featured on ABCNews11 and WARZ, and she has been recognized with awards for her work in the community. Janet is a visionary and a collaborative leader who believes the best way to end homelessness is through partnership and working with other individuals and organizations, she believes there is strength in unity.

Kishia Carrington James, Board Member
Dr. James currently serves as the Director of Counseling Services at Jarvis Christian University and an Instructor at San Francisco State University. Dr. James is a published author with over 23 years of service in Higher Education and PK-12 Education. She holds an EdD in Educational Leadership from Fayetteville State University, master’s degree in School Administration, National Board Certification in School Counseling, master’s degree in School Counseling, and bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from North Carolina Central University. She has a passion to provide equitable supports to marginalized and underserved populations and has been recognized in The Herald-Sun newspaper for being a fervent educator with a conscientious lens for all students’ development and academic success, therefore leading efforts to provide wraparound supports to students through Intervention Teams throughout a school district. She works diligently to eradicate barriers that hinder youth and young adults from experiencing an equitable learning experience and supports the needs of families and communities.

Quinta Caylor, Board Member
Quinta holds a BS in Nursing and for many years, held the title of Director of Nursing. Before starting her own business in Healthcare Education, Quinta carried a wealth of experience in direct nursing care and is a sought-after Educator and Instructor. A best-selling author as well, she most recently published a children’s book series on dementia together with her family. Quinta has herself risen from the ranks of homelessness earlier in her life which birthed in her the passion she has for homelessness and her drive to develop concepts that eradicate its core causes, making her a valuable member of our Board of Directors. She is currently employed with National Independent Nurses Association, where she holds the title of President.

Latonya Harrison, Treasurer
Latonya holds a MS in Human Services and a BS in Business Management. She is a tax professional and business owner of Harrison’s Tax and Consulting, LLC and possesses a wealth of knowledge in the nonprofit industry including Grant writing, and is a certified credit specialist. When possible, Latonya participates in AAH charitable events and fundraisers. Latonya brings an abundance of experience, and expertise to our Board of Directors.  

Jordan Hewitt Beard, Secretary
Jordan is a seasoned nonprofit marketing and communications professional. She has worked for a variety of nonprofits in the Triangle including those that serve low-income individuals, those that uplift women experiencing homelessness, and those that empower women through employment. Jordan currently works as the Senior Director of Marketing at the historic Carolina Theatre of Durham. She holds a BA in International Studies from UNC Charlotte and a Nonprofit Management Certificate from Duke University.