OUR TEAM
Meet Our Team
At 5 Generations & 2, our impact team brings together diverse talents and experiences, where collaboration and innovation truly thrive. We believe each member plays a crucial role in driving our mission forward. Together, we tackle challenges and craft solutions in a dynamic and supportive environment. Making a difference with our unique perspectives is at the heart of everything we do.
Dr. Helene D. Wright
Founder & Executive Director
Dr. Helene D. Wright is the Founder and Executive Director of 5 Generations & 2. With over 20 years of leadership experience in higher education, nonprofit management, and corporate operations, she has dedicated her career to advancing mentorship, equity, and community empowerment. Dr. Wright holds a Ph.D. in Philosophy with a specialization in Public Service Leadership and has led national and regional programs that connect individuals and families with resources for lasting success. Her vision for 5 Generations & 2 is rooted in a multi-generational legacy of resilience and service, inspired by the five generations of strong women in her family.
Board of Directors
William Simmonds, Jr.
Board Chair
William Simmonds, III is the President and CEO of Simmonds Evans Investments, where he leads innovative strategies in business growth and community development.
For over 15 years he has coached Little League Baseball and served as Board President for 5 years in Redmond, Washington, demonstrating his commitment to community engagement and youth development.
His combined business expertise and civic involvement strengthen 5 Generations & 2’s mission to empower families and communities across the Puget Sound region.
Victor Chenault
Vice Chair
Victor Chenault is a seasoned leader with more than 25 years of experience across automotive manufacturing, finance, and real estate development.
He currently serves as a leader at Stellantis, overseeing safety and 24-hour paint operations at the Detroit Assembly Complex–Jefferson, where the Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango are produced for customers worldwide. In this role, he manages workforce safety, plant improvements, and projects that drive operational excellence.
Earlier in his career, Victor opened his own Appraisal and Property Services (Irvine Property Services) with community-focused real estate projects, including property restoration and home flipping, with a commitment to uplifting neighborhoods through economic growth and revitalization.Victor also worked at Fannie Mae as a Analyst evaluating portfolios across the country.
Victor brings to 5 Generations & 2 a unique blend of corporate leadership, financial expertise, and community development experience, strengthening the organization’s mission of empowering families and communities across the Puget Sound region.
Tracy Raphael
Board Member
As Co-Founder of The Lantern Network, Tracy is dedicated to breaking barriers for underserved and underestimated young professionals and entrepreneurs. With a background in accounting and finance and a deep belief in the power of mentorship, she has helped more than 375 young people secure career and business opportunities through skill development, guidance, and access to resources.
At 5 Generations & 2, Tracy brings her passion for empowerment, equity, and community building — helping to expand programs that uplift individuals and families toward lasting success.
Joanathan Gimarino
Operations & Communications Assistant
Jonathan Gimarino is an Operations & Communications Assistant with over 10 years of experience in customer service, marketing, and administrative support. With the past two years focused on digital marketing, he has successfully managed campaigns and social media platforms to boost visibility and engagement. Known for his versatility and precision, Jonathan excels at streamlining operations, strengthening communications, and supporting teams to achieve their goals efficiently.