Board of Directors
Our program is supported completely by volunteers which ensures your donations are used to support families.
Founder:
Angel Sanchez Jr.
A Riverside native, Angel Sanchez, Jr. is Chief Operating Officer and Director of Global Operations for Riverside-based Phenix Technology, Inc. He has a degree in Administration of Justice from Riverside City College and a Bachelor's Degree in Public Administration from California Baptist University. He dedicated over 20 years to the Jurupa Valley Adopt a Family and has since retired leaving his legacy to those dedicated to continuing his vision for the Jurupa Valley Adopt a Family.
Chairman:
Jennifer Pellegrin- Perez
As one of the original board members, Jennifer has been involved with the program for over 15 years following in her father’s footsteps in volunteering as he was one of the original Vice Chairmans. She was raised in Jurupa Valley graduating from Rubidoux High School in 2001. She worked at Jurupa Valleys' own Simply Cakes Etc. Bakery for 20 years. She graduated from West Coast University with her BSN in 2021 and her MSN in nursing education in 2024 and is a Registered Nurse working in home health care. She currently is back in school to obtain her doctorate in nursing in leadership. When she isn’t working, in school or volunteering with us. Jennifer can be found volunteering for another national non-profit with patient advocacy where she utilizes her nursing degree in public health legislation.
Vice-Chairman:
Raymond Perez
The “family” in Jurupa Valley Adopt a Family was taken literal when Raymond was recruited to help volunteer. He was roped in by his wife, our chairman, Jennifer over 3 years ago and has been volunteering since then. Raymond was born and raised in Riverside and is a Poly High School graduate, when he isn’t helping at our events, he is enjoys his Rams and Dodgers play or he can be found at Disneyland with the family.
Secretary:
Shelby Ragole
Shelby has been with JVAAF for many years using her energy for costumed characters in the Santa Express. She is a graduate of Patriot High School and grew up in Jurupa Valley. If she isn’t helping to oversee the costumed characters or doing their make up for parade, she can be found helping her mom in the Toy store as her mom JUSD board Member Melissa Ragole has been a volunteer with us for over 8 years as well.
Treasurer:
Lori Skendrovich
Lori is a Riverside resident who was introduced to the Jurupa Valley Adopt a Family when we became a team for the Jurupa Valley Relay for Life back in 2017. When we were looking for a treasurer a couple of years later her name came up numerous times and she willingly took the position and has been dedicated since. She helps coordinate donations during parades and makes sure that funds are being allocated for the needs of the multiple programs we offer.
Assistant Treasurer:
Matthew Provencher
Matthew has been volunteering with Adopt a Family since 2016 joining us as a freshman in high school. He grew up in Jurupa Valley, graduated from Patriot High School Class of 2020 and works in the aviation industry. He became a board member in January 2023 after staying involved year-round. He enjoys flying, meeting new people and volunteering with us! Matthew assists with maintaining our website, mapping parade routes, toy store coordination, and Santa Express parade operations.
Board Member:
Shelley Edwards
Board Member:
Julie Pizzitola
Julie has proudly served as a Senior Community Development Manager for over 15 years! with the American Cancer Society. She is a loving mother of 2 amazing daughters, a devoted animal rescuer, and always eager to help children and families in need. Community is her passion and Julie is an important asset within the Jurupa Adopt a Family program.
Board Member:
Jacob Killingbeck
Jacob is a dedicated and hard working individual who is passionate about his community. He is a Jurupa Valley native and a graduate of Patriot High School Class of 2019. Jacob has been a tremendous helping hand in all of our year-round events. He enjoys interacting with his community, meeting new people and spending time with his friends and family.
Board Member:
Diana Bello
As a proud long time resident of Jurupa Valley, Diana’s heart is deeply connected to this community where she grew up and graduated. She is a dedicated mom and wife, balancing family life with her passion for service. Her journey has been enriched by her role as a co-troop leader in Girl Scouts, where she fostered leadership and empowerment among young girls. Diana is currently pursuing her nursing degree and is driven by a profound desire to make a difference in the lives of others. She is especially passionate about giving back and uplifting her community, constantly seeking ways to support and inspire those around her. Diana’s commitment to service fuels her journey, and she is excited to contribute to a brighter future for everyone in Jurupa Valley.