Our Team

Crystal Houston – is an experienced youth advocate and nonprofit leader currently serving as the Executive Branch Director of Youth Services at Bethany. Previously, she’s held positions leading and developing communities and directing operations in non-profit organizations for over 20 years. Crystal oversees the programs and services for youth in disparate communities in Grand Rapids and is a leadership member of the Grand Rapids Center for Community Transformation. Crystal has earned a bachelor’s degree in community development and a master’s in acquisitions administration from Central Michigan University.

Jasmine Burrell - Is a devoted parent, community member, and daycare owner with an associate degree in Business Administration. She's committed to seeing and being the change that happens within the community. Ms. Burrell has the vision to help empower the youth by teaching them financial literacy and budgeting skills. Ms. Burrell is vital in the faith-based community. Always had a passion for giving back and building youth development in the City of Flint. For years she has been a community advocate and navigator who helped connect residents to resources within the community. 

T'nishia Jones-Burley - is a Flint native who has a passion for the success and prosperity of the youth, families, and people of Flint. She is a loving wife mother, friend, teacher, consultant, coach, advocate, author, and professional. T'nishia has three bachelor’s degrees (science and arts) in Biology, Nursing, and Sociology as well as several certifications in business, education, and community advocacy. She has been dedicated to teaching others to live a lifestyle of relationship and love toward God, self, family, and others for over 25 years. 

Faith Canning – is an experienced educator with over nine years in the fi specializing in early literacy. Having taught 1st and 2nd grades, she now serves as an Early Literacy Coach for schools in Genesee County. Faith holds a Master’s degree in STEM Leadership and has extensive training in literacy, including the Science of Reading through LETRS. She is also continuing her education by working towards a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction. A devoted follower of Christ, she is passionate about helping children develop and is honored to be able to use her gifts to change Flint, one Student at a Time!

Pastor Jimmie Whitaker - AMan of God has always had a servants hearts, ,where God lead. This service began in the music ministry at Bethesda Temple in the late 80's, he then served in the youth ministry and became Pastor there in 1997. He has served in several capacity to help youth reach their full potential! He has committed his days to Gods work and helping Flint and its youth be all it can be!  

 Jean Lewis – A  dedicated Social Worker who has committed her life to the service of others. She served for 43 years for the Department of Human Services (DHS), as a social worker always going over and beyond to help the families she served. She is gifted at connecting individuals with resources to support those during their time of need. She has an overwhelming sense of empathy and continues to use her amazing light to guide others to a better life.