Meet the Team

Makayla Samayoa
Founder & Executive Director
Makayla, originally from Richmond, VA, has called Harrisonburg/Rockingham home for nearly a decade. She holds a Master's degree in Transformational Leadership from the Center for Justice and Peacebuilding at Eastern Mennonite University and a dual Bachelor's degree in Religion and Modern Foreign Languages (Spanish) from James Madison University. With over six years of experience providing legal support to immigrants and assisting single-parent families experiencing homelessness as a case manager, Makayla is passionate about serving others. Driven by her love for the Lord, she approaches her work with grace, humility, and a commitment to justice. Makayla is excited to reconnect with clients in the community and continue supporting them through practical solutions and compassionate advocacy. In her free time, she enjoys outdoor activities like kayaking and gardening.

Erick Josue Samayoa Gonzalez
Immigration Legal Services Admin Assistant & IT Support Specialist
Erick is originally from Guatemala and immigrated to the United States in 2023, now proudly calling Harrisonburg/Rockingham his home. With a background in computer engineering and electrical studies, Erick has also gained experience as a teacher and an ATM technician. Passionate about technology and problem-solving, he is eager to use his skills to support his community. Driven by his Christian faith, Erick believes in the importance of serving others, and he is particularly focused on helping immigrants navigate the challenges they may face. Together with his wife, Makayla, he is committed to serving the local immigrant community through assistance with immigration cases and addressing other essential needs. In his free time, Erick enjoys reading, fishing, and exploring new places.