Our Team
LaChaun Vire
Director of Programs
LaChaun Vire enjoyed over eight years as a leader for Ritz Carlton and Marriott Hotel Companies teaching corporate strategy, service excellence, brand management and customer engagement to diverse employees. American Society for Quality (ASQ)-certified, she loved utilizing data tools to teach and lead senior leaders in process improvement. Four of those years were spent directly in the Human Resources department as the DC Area Performance Development Manager where she was responsible for the development of all levels of staff while ensuring that curriculum, policy, and performance were aligned with the talents and skills of those delivering service and the brand-specific needs of guests. Recognized as a leader in corporate education and development, LaChaun was asked to work with the DC government to prepare its youth for a career in hospitality. The impact of that work and formed relationships solidified a burning desire to use her skills to be a direct instrument in the lives of those that need to be equipped, empowered, and supported while finding their path in life. LaChaun plunged into the nonprofit world as she managed Affiliate Development and corporate strategy for 58 affiliates of the National CARES Mentoring Movement whose mission involves engaging and preparing caring adults to give back to communities of color in the form of mentoring. As Executive Director for the Excel Automotive Institute, LaChaun secured a partnership with the DC Government as its only NATEF-certified automotive school for adults. She obtained multiple funding awards from diverse sources. while establishing partnerships with top corporate sponsors in the industry. Her modification of the curriculum and program increased completion rates and job attainment for her students. Currently through her company LDV Solutions, LaChaun uses her experience and skill to equip and serve those whose mission is to serve their community. LaChaun is a native and resident of Washington, D.C. where she lives with her husband with whom she shares three beautiful daughters and a granddaughter. She still volunteers with many community organizations that support DMV area youth while also enjoying reading, traveling, and crying over great movies.
Rebekah Calano
Program Coordinator
Rebekah moved to Washington, DC more than 6 years ago from Pennsylvania and soon came to love the city and people who live in it. Rebekah is a full time elementary school teacher who has taught children of all abilities from kindergarten through fourth grade. In teaching the past 10 years and especially through the COVID pandemic, Rebekah has seen the disparities between the families in her school and families in other areas. Through working with her students and their families, Rebekah saw a need for further support and aid for families, and is so excited by the American Housing Fund. She is delighted to be able to work with the American Housing Fund to serve the families of the DMV. When she is not working with her students and clients, Rebekah is spending time with friends, exercising, or discovering new places.