We Are Groundswell

Meet the Board of Directors at Groundswell!

Dena Williams is the founder of DW Consulting, where she leads social impact and philanthropy strategy for foundations, corporations, and nonprofit partners. Beyond her consulting work, Dena has been actively engaged in nonprofit leadership throughout her career. She joined the Groundswell Board of Directors in 2025 and brings deep experience in philanthropy, partnership strategy, and community-centered program management.

"I joined Groundswell because its work sits at the intersection of so much that matters to me: community & and creating stronger systems for belonging. I was especially drawn to the fact that Groundswell does not just talk about equity in theory. It gives communities practical tools through mediation, leadership development, and narrative change work, and I wanted to support that kind of grounded, community-facing leadership as a board member."

"We truly were ambassadors." Congratulations to our graduates from our year long Human Relations Ambassadors Program, we cannot wait to see what your future holds!

We have a similar leadership program in the summer called the Youth Leadership Institute, register today before the deadline! Link in Bio.

Looking for something fun to do with Mom? We will be tabling at Garden Grove's concert in the park next Saturday! Come look for Don & our Groundswell staff and tell them Instagram sent you!

Meet the Board of Directors at Groundswell!

Destiny Lopez serves as Treasurer on the Board now, but Destiny's involvement at Groundswell first began over 10 years ago as a high school student at our annual Walk in My Shoes Youth Conference!

"Groundswell gave me a sense of connection and belonging that I really needed."

Meet the Board of Directors at Groundswell!

Bradley Pray is First Vice President and Compliance Officer at Banc of California. Beyond his corporate compliance responsibilities, Bradley has been actively engaged in nonprofit leadership through his service with Groundswell. He joined the Groundswell Board of Directors in 2019 and has since served in key leadership roles, including Vice President and President of the Board.

"I think what has made the most impact is not one particular event, but rather the ongoing interaction with Groundswell staff, which has greatly influenced my understanding and appreciation of other lived experiences, viewpoints, and the challenges individuals face that may differ from my own."

SAVE THE DATE! The Navigating Forward event is back this September!

Whether you’re a seasoned leader or emerging changemaker, you’ll walk away with new perspectives, actionable tools, and meaningful connections.

Add it to your calendar, registration opens soon!

CALLING ALL HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS
Interested in developing your leadership skills?

Groundswell is now accepting applications for the 2026 Youth Leadership Institute!

This week-long institute brings together High School youth from diverse backgrounds to participate in activities, dialogues, and skill-building exercises about human relations and social justice issues.

Students learn the skills to organize, take a stand against hate and injustice and create a community that is safe and equitable for ALL.

Register with link in bio!

We will be presenting at the 2026 Real Talk: Inclusive Dialogue Series! Join us as we explore local civil rights milestones and honor the extraordinary contributions of local residents who have worked towards bringing equity to Orange County and the nation since 1866. This session includes a 60-min presentation as well as a guided debrief.
Register: https:I|forms.gle/iScE3NfKj6NpUd4X7