Our P.I.R.S. Leadership team

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John Charles is a born leader with an indomitable spirit, known for his ability to connect deeply with both youth and adults. Commencing his journey with SriPonya Collective as a Board member, John spearheaded the successful launch of the organization's Youth Program in Warm Springs. His genuine rapport with students and parents alike earned him widespread admiration.

Hailing from a challenging background in poverty-stricken East Palo Alto, John faced adversity from an early age, losing his father, who struggled with addiction. Drawing from his personal trials, he recognized the transformative power of excelling in football as a means to forge a better life. This dedication led him to become an All American and through his football career it extended to leadership roles in Portland and Vancouver, Washington where he founded The AirOne Football Academy helping student athletes reach their full potential on the gridiron.

Motivated by his life experiences, John found his calling in working with historically marginalized youth and young adults. Serving in his community, he supports youth grappling with substance use disorders and mental health challenges. His extensive background includes years of working with incarcerated youth. John holds certifications as a Certified Recovery Mentor and possesses a Collaborative Problem Solving (CPS) license. 

Beyond his impactful work, John actively contributes to public service committees, such as the Budget Committee in Prineville, Oregon, and serves as an advisory committee member with the CLEAR Alliance team. Simultaneously, he is the proud owner and producer of John John’s Barbecue Sauce, available in over 20 stores.

Educationally, John earned a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Psychology from Portland State University and an Associates of Art Degree in Psychology from Foothill Junior College. Notable accolades include his induction into the Portland State Football Hall of Fame at Quarterback in 2018, his stint as an Atlanta Falcons Free Agent Quarterback in 1993, and his role as the San Jose Sabercats Quarterback in 1996. Recognized for his outstanding public service, he received the Jefferson Award in 1993.

Outside his professional pursuits, John takes pride in being a dedicated father to a daughter and a loving grandfather to a granddaughter.

Jennifer Eales is an embodiment of the Way of 'Unconditional Love & Forgiveness,' making it not just a philosophy but a lived mantra that permeates every aspect of her life. This profound commitment to love and forgiveness becomes evident in real-time, particularly during challenging moments in life.. Jennifer's remarkable capacity to navigate breakdowns, leading the way back to love, guides through pain and confusion, ultimately fostering peace and connection.

As a co-founder of PIRS, Jennifer brings a wealth of skills acquired through her extensive education and professional background. With two decades of experience as a practicing attorney in California and Oregon, she blends legal acumen with a deep understanding of human dynamics. However, her journey extends beyond the boardroom, as she shares a personal story of transcending and recovering from active addiction. This transformative experience serves as the foundation for her role in guiding others seeking sobriety on physical, emotional, and spiritual levels.

She has also been on a journey to heal her own trauma, healing through Internal Family Systems therapy, the 12-steps, and somatics therapy.  She is currently studying to become a Certified Somatic Therapist.  She is a Certified Yoga Teacher, Certified Peer Support Mentor and Community Healthcare Worker.

Jennifer's ability to touch, move, and inspire goes beyond breaking old patterns and ways of being; it is an invitation for others to embark on their journey toward creating a truly remarkable life.

Ruby Pacheco is a lifelong resident of Jefferson County with a strong dedication to her community. Before stepping into her current role as the PIRS Youth Peer Support Coordinator, she worked with Warm Springs Early Childhood Education.

Fluent in Spanish, Ruby brings invaluable lived experience in recovery from addiction to drugs and alcohol. She is deeply committed to her sobriety and to supporting others on their own paths to healing.

A devoted mother of seven, Ruby cherishes time with her family and embraces the communal way of life in Warm Springs. She has been actively involved in the recovery community in both Warm Springs and Madras, with a heartfelt passion for working with youth. Through her work and personal journey, she continues to inspire and uplift those around her.

Bonita Leonard is a dedicated mother of two and a passionate advocate for recovery. Being in recovery herself, she understands the challenges and triumphs of the journey and is committed to inspiring others by living as an example of what is possible through healing and transformation.

With over two years of experience as a fitness coach, Bonita has found movement to be a powerful tool for emotional regulation, self-discipline, and personal growth—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well. She believes that recovery is a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.

Bonita’s mission is to uplift and support others in their recovery, reminding them that they are their own solution. When someone struggles to believe in themselves, she stands beside them, offering encouragement and unwavering support—until they find the strength to believe in themselves.

Bonita lives in Warm Springs, where she leads Wellbriety Meetings.

Carly Sullivan is a dedicated registered nurse with over 17 years of experience. She is also a passionate yoga teacher, offering classes for PIRS at Local Motion in Madras every Thursday at 5:30 PM. Having lived in Central Oregon for more than 18 years, Carly has a deep love for the outdoors.

Recently relocating to Madras, she now leads the Madras Community Garden, where she organizes educational programs and training for youth and families. An expert gardener, she has extensive knowledge of cultivating a wide variety of plants.

Carly is a devoted mother to her son and has a personal journey of recovery, which she openly shares to inspire and support others. She has a strong connection to working with youth, drawing from her experience with troubled youth in outdoor wilderness programs. Her passion for mentorship and community engagement continues to shape her work and impact.