Melissa is passionate about expanding access to supportive services and addressing systemic inequality. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Political Science from UC Berkeley, where she focused on understanding systems of power with the goal of transforming them.

Before joining Shine Together, Melissa served as a Student Ambassador at her community college and later as an Admissions Counselor for a government-funded program. She began her journey with Shine as an Outreach Specialist and now serves as an Advocate, where she builds meaningful relationships with members and connects them to vital resources.
Melissa plans to pursue a Master of Social Work (MSW) to further address individual needs and contribute to dismantling systemic barriers.

In her free time, she volunteers with a pro-democracy group in Davis, attends improv classes, strength trains, and writes music.

Hello, I’m Natasha Sanchez—an advocate for women and families who believes deeply in the power of community, compassion, and purpose-driven work. My journey has been shaped by personal experience and a strong desire to uplift and support other mothers as they navigate the complexities of work, school, parenting, relationships, and everything in between.

I graduated from Cal Poly Humboldt with a double major in Child Development and Native American Studies. For the past nine years, I’ve dedicated myself to early childhood education—a path that became especially meaningful after the birth of my child. As a single mother, working in a childcare center was more than just a job; it was a privilege that allowed me to grow alongside the children and families I served.

I bring both personal insight and professional experience to my role at Shine Together and hope to be a source of light and encouragement to the mothers we serve.

Outside of work, you’ll often find me in nature—recharging, exploring, and finding peace.