Building bridges toward healing and peace.

Tiarra Abu-Bakr is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 15 years of experience in victim services and trauma-informed care. As Clinical Director at Building Bridges Foundation, she oversees the delivery of holistic, survivor-centered counseling services. Her background includes roles with DC SAFE, MPD’s Victim Services Branch, and Bright Beginnings Inc., where she supported returning citizens and families experiencing homelessness. Tiarra provides individual, group, and family therapy, always honoring the belief that every client is the expert in their own healing journey.

Lewis Smith brings extensive experience in community development and human services to his role as Director of Operations at Building Bridges Foundation. He holds a master’s degree in Human Services from Lincoln University and has completed postgraduate studies in behavioral health and healthcare management. With certifications in family therapy, addiction recovery, and juvenile justice, Lewis leads with both strategic insight and grassroots commitment. He actively serves on multiple community boards and remains deeply involved in advancing trauma-informed care across the region.

Kayla Deal, a proud native of Prince George’s County, Maryland, is the acting president of Building Bridges Foundation, and is dedicated to building stronger, healthier communities. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore and is a Doctor of Pharmacy at her alma mater’s School of Pharmacy.

Delmus is the treasurer for Building Bridges. With deep roots in Anacostia, he is committed to workforce development, especially for individuals seeking a second chance. Through his training programs, Delmus provides technical skills and employment opportunities to community members. His entrepreneurial experience and passion for social impact bring invaluable insight to our board.

Cheryl Daniels is Building Bridges secretary, who specializes in billing and coding. Cheryl is a passion led domestic violence advocate. As a former survivor, Cheryl uses her lived experience to uplift others, offering encouragement, support, and education through trauma-informed practices. Her voice is a constant reminder that healing is possible—and advocacy matters.

Tavares Martin is a mental wellness advocate, fitness professional, and non-traditional scholar committed to transforming lives through purpose-driven service. As a Board Member at Building Bridges Foundation, he brings a unique lens shaped by lived experience, academic pursuit, and over a decade of community engagement. His passion lies in creating equitable access to healing spaces for men, youth, and underserved communities—bridging mental, emotional, and physical well-being.