Meet our team

Shannon Andrews

Founder

"We each have a responsibility to treat every person with dignity, respect, and compassion, regardless of their circumstances. It’s only when we come together as a village that true equality can thrive, and every individual is given the chance to flourish."

 

 

Shannon Andrews, founder of Angel Village is a passionate advocate and a voice of those who are often unheard. Originally from New York, she now calls Florida home, where she has dedicated over seven years to supporting incarcerated men in Georgia and Florida. Her journey is fueled by a commitment to justice and human rights, focusing on issues such as sentencing disparities, parole challenges, and violations of civil and human rights.
Currently on the cusp of graduating with a bachelor’s degree in human services with a minor in law, Shannon’s academic pursuits have deepened her understanding of the systemic challenges faced by marginalized communities. This knowledge allows her to advocate more effectively for those in need.
Throughout her time in advocacy, Shannon has worked tirelessly to identify and address CRIPA and SOP violations, ensuring individuals have the resources and support necessary to navigate the complexities of the legal and penal system. She firmly believes that everyone deserves a voice and the opportunity to advocate for their rights. She has also spent over 20 years in the medical field in case management, while raising her two sons.
Driven by a profound belief in the power of compassion and justice, Shannon is excited to continue her journey, collaborating with others who share her commitment to creating meaningful change in our communities.
 

 

Khalifah Ali- Visionary Partner
Growing up in Savannah, Georgia, Khalifah Ali faced the harsh, systemic challenges that often accompany difficult environments. His life’s path, shaped by these realities, ultimately led to his incarceration. However, instead of being defeated, he used his time in prison as an opportunity for growth, dedicating himself to understanding reentry, mental health, and rehabilitation. Over the years, Khalifah has become a dedicated leader in the Muslim community, known for his wisdom, resilience, and commitment to guiding others. His personal journey has made him a pillar of strength and a role model to many, as he actively serves his community with compassion and insight. Khalifah is a master networker, working tirelessly to spread the message of advocacy and empowerment across institutions throughout Georgia. His work focuses on creating pathways for those affected by the criminal justice system and promoting a message of second chances.

As a brother of guidance and an advocate for change, Khalifah continues to inspire and lead with unwavering dedication to helping others overcome their struggles and rebuild their lives.

Emily Fitzgerald- Legal Support Coordinator- Board Member

Emily has been a dedicated paralegal for over seven years, serving communities in Virginia for two years and Georgia for the past five and a half. Throughout her legal career, Emily has also been a passionate advocate for justice, using her skills to support individuals and families navigating complex legal systems. Her patience, attention to detail, and caring heart make her not only an asset in the legal field but also a trusted voice for those who often go unheard. Emily brings both precision and compassion to her work, ensuring that every case she touches is handled with integrity and care.

Kathleen Andrews- Compliance Advisor

Kathleen hails from the Hudson Valley in New York State, where she was born and raised.Following her move to Florida in 1980, she began her professional career as an executive assistant and a compliance specialist in the healthcare and investment industries. During her tenure in healthcare, she was appointed Assistant Secretary of the Board of Directors of major medical institution in Jacksonville, Florida and became the custodian of record in response to federal investigations spanning multiple jurisdictions. In addition to her professional activities, Kathleen participated in multiple community volunteer activities in the legal, medical, educational, and entertainment fields. Kathleen is the proud mother of two inspiring children and grandmother of 2 wonderful young men.

 

Diana Robinson- Community Liaison 

A Jacksonville, Florida native with a heart of gold, Ms. Diana Robinson has dedicated her life to uplifting others through service and faith. Deeply rooted in the church and guided by her strong spiritual foundation, she works tirelessly to give back to the community she loves. Diana’s unwavering commitment to outreach and compassion for others makes her a powerful bridge between the church and the neighborhoods it serves. Her warmth, integrity, and dedication make her an invaluable asset to both ministry and mission.

LeBryan Sperling, J.D. - Consultant
LeBryan Sperling, J.D., is the founder of Lighthouse Private Investigation Services LLC, a firm dedicated to uncovering the truth and ensuring justice is served. With a passion for advocacy and over 1,200 investigations under his belt, LeBryan has earned a reputation as a tireless fighter for justice.

LeBryan holds a double bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Philosophy from Furman University, and a Juris Doctorate from John Marshall Law School. His formal education laid the foundation for his deep understanding of the law and his commitment to fairness.

In addition to his academic achievements, LeBryan has completed extensive investigative training and cultural diversity training, as well as holding multiple other accreditations in areas such as forensic investigation, criminal defense investigation, cybersecurity, and conflict resolution. These additional credentials reflect his broad skill set and expertise, further enhancing his ability to handle complex cases with thoroughness, precision, and sensitivity. His diverse training allows him to approach every investigation with a comprehensive, well-rounded perspective, ensuring he advocates for justice in every situation.

As a committed advocate for justice, LeBryan continues to leverage his expertise to serve clients with integrity, ensuring that the truth prevails and that every individual receives the fairness they deserve.

Crystalene Brown, LCSW- Board Advisor for Social Work Initiatives 
With 35 years of experience in social work, Crystalene Brown is a dedicated Psychotherapist and Adjunct Professor in the Human Services Department at FSCJ. She also serves as a School Social Worker with Duval County Public Schools and is a qualified supervisor for clinical interns. Crystalene's diverse expertise spans therapy, education, and mentorship, making her a trusted professional in the field.