OUR TEAM

MEET THE TEAM behind the mission

At Good Work Collective, our team is more than a staff—we're a movement of lived experience, radical empathy, and relentless hope. We've walked beside the very people we serve—through the foster care system, the justice system, and the gaps that traditional workforce programs leave behind. That’s why this isn’t just a job for us—it’s personal.

We’re building trauma-informed pathways to prosperity because we believe in second chances, untapped potential, and the kind of transformation that ripples through families and communities.

Willie Drake

Founder & Executive Director

ex officio board member

Willie Drake brings lived experience and deep-rooted compassion to his role at Good Work Collective. As a formerly incarcerated individual, Willie knows firsthand the challenges faced by those navigating reentry. His journey fuels his passion to rewrite the narrative around justice-impacted individuals—centered on dignity, purpose, and possibility.

A respected voice in Cleveland's grassroots and community spaces, Willie is known for meeting people where they are—and walking beside them as they move forward. His leadership ensures TGWC remains grounded in the needs of the community we serve.

Lissa Bowen

Director, Programs & Partnerships

Lissa Bowen is a trauma-informed workforce strategist, leadership coach, and adoptive mom whose heart for this work is rooted in personal experience. After fostering children and adopting her son who were impacted by the system, she saw firsthand how deep the gaps are—and how powerful support can be. Lissa has led culture transformation and leadership development for companies and nonprofits alike. At Good Work Collective, she brings big-picture strategy and grassroots heart, helping to scale programs, build partnerships, and turn bold ideas into real change.

OUR BOARD + TEAM

Keith Benford - Board President

Jerrit Thomas - Board Vice President

Chris White - Board Secretary & Treasurer

Natasha Kathiany - Accounting

Torin Darling Brazzle - Strategic Advisor to the Board

Good Work Collective | 501(c)3

The New Settlement House

1523 E. 55th Street

Cleveland, Ohio 44103

[email protected]