Meet Home Start’s executive team dedicated to Home Start’s success!
Laura A. Tancredi-Baese, LCSW
Chief Executive Officer
Ms. Tancredi-Baese has been an asset to the San Diego Non-Profit community for over 25 years. After earning a Masters Degree in Social Work at San Diego State University, she then went on to earn a license as a clinical social worker. Her extensive experience also includes management of child and youth development and transitional living programs for young persons, and executive leadership. As a recognized leader in her field, Laura was the founder of several transitional living programs in San Diego for transition-age homeless youth (aged 18-24). Since May of 2007, Laura continues to be a passionate force to promote our mission and vision that every child in San Diego live in a safe and nurturing home. Through her efforts, Home Start has opened the doors to our Maternity Shelter Program providing support to pregnant or parenting young women and their children facing homelessness, and founded our Thrift Boutique/ social enterprise to support these families. Additionally, Laura serves on the Board of Directors for the California Coalition for Youth (CCY) and has mentored several formerly homeless young women to become full time paid staff as well as board members for Home Start and CCY.
Rick Roark
Chief Finance Officer
Originally from the Bay Area, Mr. Roark graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from California State University, Hayward. His accounting career began at a bookkeeping and tax service. While still in the Bay Area, Rick was controller for one of the largest, privately-held Supercuts hair cutting franchisees in the United States.
To be closer to family, Rick and his family moved to San Diego in 1997. Since then, Rick has worked in a variety of Executive Level Chief Financial Officer and Finance Director Positions for several local non-profits, responsible for all finance operations of the organization.
Glenda Maxwell, PHR
Director of Human Resources
Ms. Maxwell is a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) and holds a Certificate in Human Resources Management from San Diego State University. She has over 28 years of professional experience in the field as a human resources generalist. Ms. Maxwell joined Home Start in 2005 and is responsible for all human resources and payroll functions. She also oversees the Volunteer Program.
Mark Lagace
Director of Philanthropy
Mr. Lagace enjoys using his 14+ years of experience in Philanthropy to further strengthen families and protect children from abuse. Mark considers himself an ambassador and advocates for the more than 22,000 families and children served by Home Start annually. His goal is that every San Diegan will be aware of our life-changing services and know how to get involved. Mark is also an active member of the Association of Fundraising Professionals, San Diego Chapter. He currently serves on their Board as President Elect. Hobbies include hiking, going to the beach, participating in community events, and seeing movies. Contact Mark today to see how you can become a Home Start partner!
Lejla Biscevic
Director of Business & Finance
Ms. Biscevic has a MBA in International Finance from American University, American School of Economics, Europe. She also has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration from National University , San Diego. Lejla has over 15 years of experience in the financial /accounting field. Her hobbies include outdoor activities, yoga, running and going to the beach.