The Board of Directors
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Robert Owens Jr
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF VETERAN AFFAIRS
Robert led the nonprofit organization with vision and dedication, steering its operations and ensuring its mission was carried out in alignment with the strategic direction set by the Board of Directors. His leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment to service left a lasting impact on the community.
In Loving Memory of Robert Owens Jr.
1949 – 2024
His legacy of service and kindness will continue to inspire us.Contact Robert:
Paula@honorvillage.org -
Kristin Ostrander
SECRETARY
Kristin serves as a key conduit for communication among board members, proactively fostering collaboration. She plays an active role in attending community events and ensuring clients have access to relevant and up-to-date resources.
Contact Kristin:
Paula@honorvillage.org -
Shamea Hardy, BSW
MARKETING CONSULTANT
Shamea manages The Honor Village's social media presence, ensuring the community stays informed with the latest updates and relevant information. She is responsible for creating engaging content, posting updates, and responding to followers. With a degree in Social Work from Arizona State University (ASU), Shamea brings a deep understanding of community needs and digital engagement to her role.
Contact Shamea: Paula@honorvillage.org
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Sierra Owens
INTAKE SPECIALIST
Sierra connects clients with relevant and up-to-date resources tailored to their specific needs. She actively engages with the community by attending events and maintaining open communication, fostering strong and consistent relationships.
Contact Sierra:
Paula@honorvillage.org -
Patricia Lowe
COO
The Chief Operating Officer (COO) / Vice President will assume the role of Acting President in the event of the President’s absence or inability to serve, with limited rights, privileges, and powers as if duly elected. Additionally, the COO is responsible for overseeing daily operations, managing staff, and providing program support to ensure the organization's mission and services run smoothly.
Contact Patricia: Paula@honorvillage.org
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Deja Lowe, BA
Case Manager
Deja is dedicated to organizing, facilitating, and evaluating care options for military veterans, ensuring their mental, physical, and emotional well-being. As a case manager, she takes a holistic approach to client care—advocating for their needs, identifying appropriate service providers, and ensuring they receive the necessary support. Deja holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Arizona State University (ASU), bringing valuable expertise to her role in veteran care.
Contact Deja:
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Mechile Villanueva
Administration Coordinator
The Administrative Coordinator manages the daily administrative operations of the office, ensuring efficiency and organization. Responsibilities include scheduling meetings, managing calendars, handling communications, maintaining office supplies, coordinating logistics, and supporting a smooth workflow.
Contact Mechile:
Our Team
Paula Knight
FOUNDER & CEO
Paula Knight founded The Honor Village, Inc. in 2023, driven by a community crisis and her firsthand experience with the immense challenges Veterans face. With housing costs requiring three times the rent and SSI checks falling short of providing safe, stable living conditions, Paula witnessed far too many Veterans who had served their country left without support.
Determined to make a change, Paula encountered numerous obstacles—unwelcoming attitudes, closed doors, and donors lacking the resources to help. The most difficult challenge was navigating the complex network of contacts to find real solutions for Veterans in need.
Despite these hurdles, Paula transformed frustration into action, becoming a tireless advocate for struggling Veterans. Today, The Honor Village, Inc. stands as a beacon of hope, but the journey is far from over. It’s time for all of us to stand up, give back, and ensure that those who served our country receive the support and stability they deserve.
With a diverse career spanning multiple roles, Paula Knight has leveraged her skills and experiences as a gateway into entrepreneurship. Over the years, she has earned numerous certificates and awards, reflecting her dedication to serving the community. Known for her compassion and willingness to help others, Paula has played a vital role in coaching volunteers and support groups on the services provided by AZCEND, including emergency shelter, homeless services, the food bank, family resources, senior programs, and more.
A proud third-generation Chandler resident, Paula’s roots in the community run deep. Her commitment to service is further inspired by her father, a veteran who bravely served his country.
What is the most rewarding part of her work?
"Knowing that I can help change a life in the community, day by day."
Paula Knight’s experience as a single African American mother instilled in her both patience and leadership, teaching her to recognize when others are silently crying out for help. Honoring this skill has made her a steadfast pillar of support for her volunteers, colleagues, and the community. This deep sense of loyalty became the foundation of The Honor Village.
Paula understands the vulnerability and humility that come with asking for help, allowing her to connect deeply with the community The Honor Village, Inc. serves. When veterans reach out to the organization, they are met with warmth, sincerity, and a welcoming environment. This compassionate approach fosters lasting relationships, ensuring ongoing support and long-term consultation.
Contact Paula:
Paula@honorvillage.org
602-600-9842