Shelia M. Benard

Executive Director

I am a mother of two and a grandmother of six. I have a passion for youth, with over 20 years of working with youth in faith-based organizations and a community college setting. As a result of my personal experiences, I encountered through my daughter’s life, I developed a heart-felt sensitivity to the cry of the voices of youth and parents being negatively impacted by bullying.

As a parent, I sought out ways to support other parents who were part of my community, whose child experienced adverse circumstances. Through a program called Moms in Touch, I led a prayer group praying for the district school, staff, and students. Our efforts prompted community leaders to push for an anti-bullying policy within the school district.

I am a motivator, author, Certified Christian Counselor, and Certified Parent Coach. I constantly draw from my life and daughter’s life story as a playwright to inspire young people to be all God has created them to be. As a youth leader, I have mentored teen girls, coordinated, and promoted youth events and drama productions. I have witnessed the effect theater arts has on youth and how it can be used to boost their confidence and social skills.  All of these experiences were instrumental in me starting Xpression 4 Connections, Inc.  I now understand what it means to “not fit in” - because I now KNOW, God has called me to “stand out!”

Camille Escamilla

President

Program Director - Camille Escamilla I am married and a mother of four.  I have worked with adolescents ranging from four to fifteen years of age for over six years in faith-based organizations and childcare services.  My passion for youth was ignited several years ago when my child experienced bullying. Much like them, I had experienced bullying.  As a coping mechanism, I learned to put my emotions into dancing.  Dancing became a tool that helped improve my mental and emotional health by reducing the stress and boosted my self-esteem. 

Peer pressure stimulates bullying, low self-esteem, and a great amount of anger.  It wasn’t until my child experienced bullying did, I realize the insurmountable pressure that today’s youth are constantly facing.  Many of today’s youth, just like my middle and high school peers, don’t know how to channel that negative energy and end of succumbing to the negative pressure.  Every child needs an outlet to be heard, a safe place to be accepted, and tools to discover and love who they are in Christ.  It is my heart’s desire to see every kid succeed in life and know their self-worth.   As I walk alongside each youth in our program, my goal is to push them to be great, so they can truly “love the skin you’re in!”