Our Story
Our journey began with a transformative experience: taking our daughters to Mexico to construct a home for a family in need. In Mexico, as in many third-world countries, the most impoverished face significant challenges with limited resources, hindering their ability to break free from the cycle of poverty. On that enlightening day almost ten years ago, our family discovered that unlike in many first-world countries, education is not always a universally granted right but, regrettably, a privilege.
This pivotal moment inspired the inception of Small Steps For Change. What initially started as a mission to facilitate the education of one young girl has evolved into a broader commitment to assist numerous children who lack the means to meet the fundamental requirements for accessing an education.
Why Small Steps? Because We KNOW Every Step Counts
Our journey began with the story of a single young girl, yet today, our impact extends to supporting over 65 children through our sponsored student programs and homework clubs in a small colony in Baja California. While education remains our primary focus as the cornerstone of growth, our commitment extends beyond the confines of the classroom. We firmly believe in the power of incremental steps to foster a sustainable and thriving community. The combination of these steps is where our set goals become the benchmark for success.
We understand that the synergy of academic excellence, character development, and community service shapes capable, ethical, and altruistic young individuals eager to contribute to the betterment of their families and communities. Recognizing that change is a gradual process, we affirm that, with each small step, we have indeed made a significant difference.
OUR MISSION
To change the trajectory of poverty by empowering communities through education, environmental health and wellness, advocacy and access to critical needs.
OUR VISION
To build a benchmark of success that can be implemented in any community in need around the world.
VALUE STATEMENT
Our purpose is to empower local communities by equipping people with education and skills that will benefit them today and into their futures. While we do not hide the devastating realities that our families and communities face, we do not see people as helpless victims. We are in fact allies - working to close gaps created by generations of poverty and injustice. We will maintain the dignity, respect, and value of each individual life as we partner with families and communities and work collaboratively together to bring about sustainable growth. As a team, we will celebrate everyone's contributions, backgrounds and cultures. As an organization we will celebrate each SMALL STEP because we know that every step counts..
OUR TEAM
Vennessa Fuhs
President & Co-Founder
Board Member
Vennessa is a native of Southern California and an activist for change. She believes that education is the key instrument for ensuring equality and progress in all parts of the world. Her work is centered around supporting the goals and needs of our sponsored children and their families as well as leading our animal education program. She's working on growing our programs to encompass all 3 of our community goals "mind (academics), body (nutrition), and soul (animal education)" goals.
Karen Berger
Secretary, Treasurer and Co-Founder
Board Member
Karen Berger was committed to this cause before there was even a cause to commit to—pouring her time, energy, and personal resources into supporting our very first sponsored students alongside our founder, Vennessa.
Her unwavering belief in the power of education and opportunity has helped shape Small Steps for Change into what it is today. Karen’s compassion and generosity continue to drive our mission forward, ensuring that children in need have the support and resources to build brighter futures.
When she’s not working to change lives, Karen is an avid traveler and outdoor enthusiast, always seeking new adventures and perspectives that inspire her work.
We are incredibly grateful for Karen’s dedication, heart, and vision, she is a true pillar of this organization!
Ronald (Ronnie) Greene
Board Member
Ron Greene, our dedicated CEO. In addition to leading our nonprofit with passion and purpose, Ron is also the CEO of Nova Naturals, where his expertise in business strategy, leadership, and sustainable growth has been instrumental in shaping a company committed to quality.
Ron’s dedication extends far beyond the corporate world. His commitment to serving marginalized communities and creating opportunities for children in need is the driving force behind our mission. With a deep belief that education, mentorship, and resources can break the cycle of poverty, Ron brings a strategic mindset to our nonprofit, ensuring that every initiative is impactful, sustainable, and built for long-term success.
Ray Parrish
Board Member & Chief Investment Officer (CIO)
Ray Parrish, a retired Ford executive with a passion for giving back, is the newest member of the Small Steps For Change team. He brings a wealth of financial planning expertise, assisting with compliance and long-term strategy for the organization. Outside of his work with us, Ray and his wife, Christy, enjoy traveling and cherish time with their family.
Bill Fuhs
Board Member & Voice of Reason
As a dedicated Small Steps for Change board member, Bill brings strategic insight and an unwavering commitment to helping others. He’s also the go-to person for the countless behind-the-scenes tasks that keep things running smoothly. Many affectionately call him “Saint Bill”—not because he wears a halo (yet), but because of his boundless kindness and willingness to step in wherever he’s needed.
His wisdom, patience, and generosity make him an invaluable part of Small Steps for Change, and we’re grateful to have him on this journey.
C.C. Hafner
Fundraising Chair
C.C. boasts over 20 years of fundraising expertise with prominent nonprofits and startups. Now the Director of Philanthropy at MemorialCare Saddleback Medical Center Foundation, she previously raised $3.2 million in two years at St. Anne School as Executive Director of Development.
C.C. led the philanthropic efforts at Hoag Hospital Irvine and Hoag Orthopedic Institute where she raised over $38 million for the Hoag Irvine's transformative healthcare initiatives. Throughout her seven years at Hoag, she secured over $8 million for the Benjamin and Carmela Du Emergency Pavilion and steered Hoag Orthopedics to a triumphant $17 million in fundraising during the Hoag Promise Campaign.
Prior to Hoag, C.C. held leadership roles at CHOC Children’s Foundation and the Tony Hawk Foundation. C.C. graduated from Western Washington University with a Bachelor of Arts in Business Marketing and completed her Masters of Arts in Non-Profit Management and Leadership Studies from the University of San Diego.
C.C. comes from a long line of family members in the medical field and education. Her family has always valued education and forwarding one’s career through advanced educational programs. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for Pathway School and Small Steps For Change.
She currently resides in San Clemente with her husband of 17 years, Ian Hafner, and two children, Declan and Madelyn.
Guadalupe (Lupita) Bueno Flores
Education Partner
Guadalupe (Lupita) Bueno Flores is the Director of education at Corazones Magicos, our go to for most things in Mexico, the backbone of our education program and the boots on the ground 24/7.
Ma. Guadalupe (Lupita) Bueno Flores is a pedagogy graduate and author of Mujer, Busca tu Varita Mágica.
Born into a humble family in a small town in Jalisco, she had no access to local schools. Determined to get an education, she left home at nine to attend a religious boarding school, where she worked cleaning classrooms to pay for her studies. Her dream was always to create a school where she could help children striving for a better future.
With the support of generous individuals who shared her vision, she founded Corazones Mágicos School, a place where children can learn, grow, and find joy despite difficult home situations. The school also provides meals and care for the children of single parents while they work.
Her journey with Small Steps for Change began well before Vennessa and Karen founded the organization. They came offering support through education, food, and animal care. Their mission deeply resonated with her, and she has since become an integral part of the effort to uplift vulnerable children. She remains grateful for the people who bring hope and transformation to the community—creating magic in the hearts of the next generation.
Anthony and Laura Maria De León
Program Director
Anthony de León was born in the state of Durango and graduated with a degree in Educational Sciences from the Universidad de las Californias Internacional (UDCI) in 2018. He serves as the director of Small Steps for Change, overseeing and managing the daily operations of the Community Center, sponsored families, homework clubs, and other initiatives. He is supported by an incredible team dedicated to making a lasting impact in the community.
Since childhood, Anthony aspired to become a teacher, inspired by an educator who profoundly influenced his early years. This mentor's example, dedication, and love for serving communities—without expecting anything in return—left a lasting impression on him. Through this guidance, Anthony learned the importance of planting a seed in the hearts of those who drive change in the lives of children, adults, and entire communities. He came to understand that perspectives can be transformed, even for those who believe that achieving a dream or a goal is impossible.
This educator instilled in him the values of patience and perseverance, teaching him that every small act of kindness can make a significant impact on people's lives. Ultimately, the most meaningful reward is witnessing the results—the love, patience, and kindness poured out by God into the lives of the families served.
Anthony is deeply passionate about serving the community. His work with Small Steps for Change continually reminds him of his mentor, reinforcing the belief that every action, gesture, and act of service has a profound impact. Just as he was once inspired, he hopes that the families touched by this work will one day look back with gratitude and simply say: “Thank you, God!”
Maria Del Carmen
Educator
Maria del Carmen graduated from CUVA University in Mexico. She has had the opportunity to work with students of all ages and educational stages.
Early in her career, she worked with INEA, an educational branch of the Mexican government, where she helped adults who had not completed their primary or secondary education. She was later selected to join MECE, a leadership group focused on improving the quality of education in Mexico.
With extensive experience working with both children and adults of varying learning abilities, Maria is deeply passionate about teaching. She finds immense joy in helping children achieve their dreams of learning and is committed to making education accessible to all. Her greatest aspiration is to establish a school for low-income children, ensuring they receive a quality education and a brighter future.