The Heart Behind the Work
The Heart Behind The Work
Homeless Action Sonoma and Catholic Charities have joined forces to strengthen the village and ensure lasting stability for the unhoused in the Sonoma Valley.
James Whittaker, Board President HAS -
20
Tiny Homes
Warmth and Hope
100 People Served Weekly
Food, Community, and Help
$700k Yearly Operation Cost
Cost of Change
Our Story & Mission
Homeless Action Sonoma (HAS) began when founder Annie Falandes opened her backyard to serve Sunday BBQs for unhoused neighbors. One of the first people helped was Bob, who had been homeless for 25 years. With the support of HAS, Bob secured long-overdue veterans’ benefits and stable housing—a model of care that continues today.
Since becoming a 501(c)(3) in 2020, HAS has grown into a vital resource for Sonoma Valley. With community support, including key loans from Peter Fazio and Steve Latimer, HAS is now a tiny home village of 20 housing units, offices, and shared facilities, now fully occupied and serving residents with essential services.
Our mission is to confront homelessness through advocacy, shelter, and sustainable housing solutions—empowering individuals toward independence and building a community dedicated to ending homelessness.
Faces of Our Neighbors Exhibit
The Sonoma Community Center honored us by highlighting our clients’ individuality and humanity beyond circumstances.
Our Board
James Whittaker - President
James Whittaker, HAS Board Chair, guides strategy, budgeting, and grant efforts. A former Path Forward Chair and veteran of six nonprofit boards, he co-founded Marasco Newton Group and was Sr. VP at SRA International. He lives in Sonoma with his partner, two dogs, and three grown children.
Patrick Favale - Secretary
As HAS Secretary, Patrick manages documentation, communications, and board operations, ensuring smooth, organized meetings. He plays a key role in keeping Homeless Action Sonoma coordinated and focused on ending housing insecurity in Sonoma Valley.
Barry Tranis - Treasurer
Barry oversees the financial health of Homeless Action Sonoma, managing budgets, grants, and fundraising with a focus on transparency and efficiency. His nonprofit finance expertise ensures resources are used wisely and HAS remains sustainable for years to come.
William Stafford
As a new HAS Board Member, I’m excited to help advance our mission of supporting clients and the community. With a career dedicated to worker and public safety—including 14 years as Director of Risk Management for the Golden Gate Bridge District—I remain committed to ensuring the health and safety of all we serve.
Yohkheved Ihejirika
Yohki joined HAS at the opening of the Village, where she helped establish its organization and structure. She also serves on the Board of the Sonoma Community Center and works professionally as a Vision Architect, guiding creatives in bringing their Visions to life.
Marie Koller
Marie Koller, former Director of Operations at Homeless Action Sonoma, now serves on the Board, bringing her experience in compassionate leadership, operational excellence, and community advocacy. Her dedication to dignity, safety, and accountability continues to guide HAS’s mission and impact.