At The Guidance Center, strong leadership helps ensure children and families receive the compassionate, accessible mental health care they deserve. We’re proud to recognize our 2025–2026 Board officers and the dedicated community leaders guiding our work forward.
Kris Allen, Board Chair
“I’m proud to be giving back to the community and making sure there are proper resources for community members,” Kris shared.
Kris Allen, Vice President of First Bank, currently holds the position of Board Chair. With a decade of service on our Board, Kris has played an important role in shaping our strategic direction, strengthening governance, and supporting the long-term sustainability of our organization.
With more than 20 years of experience in retail banking, Kris brings deep expertise in branch operations, business development, and community-focused financial services. Throughout his career, he has worked alongside municipalities, small business development agencies, and business incubators as a banking and financial literacy advisor, helping support local economic growth and responsible access to capital.
Kris’ leadership approach centers on building long-term relationships and aligning resources with real community needs. In addition to his service at The Guidance Center, he has been involved with 100 Black Men of America Long Beach, the Bixby Knolls Business Improvement Association, and the Jackie Robinson YMCA in San Diego — reflecting his ongoing commitment to community development.
Under Kris’ leadership as board chair, The Guidance Center continues expanding partnerships, advancing community-based mental health care, and strengthening programs that help children heal, grow, and thrive.
“We are grateful for Kris’ leadership, generosity, and belief that children and families deserve competent, accessible mental health care,” said Patricia Costales, Chief Executive Officer. “His guidance is already shaping the future of our work and deepening our impact across the communities we serve.”
New Officers Helping Lead the Way
In addition to Kris’ leadership as board chair, we’re proud to recognize our 2025–2026 Board Officers:
- Derek Wratchford – Vice Chair, Western Region BQS Financial Advisors
- Paul Gleason – Treasurer, Gleason & Favarote, LLP
- Jennifer Rabin – Secretary, MediWonk Inc.
Together, this leadership team brings experience in community engagement, finance, nonprofit governance, advocacy, and child and family wellbeing. Their collective dedication strengthens our mission and ensures we remain responsive to the evolving needs of the families we serve.
Interested in Serving Your Community?
Our Board of Directors are comprised of dedicated community members who are passionate about expanding access to mental health care and standing alongside children and families in need. If you’re interested in learning more about board service with The Guidance Center, we invite you to complete a Board Committee Questionnaire.