Our Staff
Syd Goodman, Operations Director
Syd joined Project Lazarus in 2023 after working in the nonprofit world in Texas, California and Wisconsin. They have a long history in supporting and advocating for the houseless population. Their responsibilities include all financial, technology and operational support for PL programs as well compliance and reporting for our federal and state grants. Syd is an active cyclist, an animal lover and enjoys traveling the world.
Rodney Thoulion, Director of Development and Grants
Rodney joined Project Lazarus after serving for 8-1/2 years as Director of Development for CrescentCare-NO/AIDS Task Force. He is responsible for all aspects of fundraising, donor relations, grant writing, as well as planning major annual events. Rodney has more than 30 years of development, public relations and sales experience. His personal journey in caring for someone with HIV/AIDS lead to his strong dedication and passion to the cause. Seeing the residents flourish and grow at Project Lazarus is his greatest joy.
Chantel Hunter, PLPC, Clinical Director
As the Clinical Director at Project Lazarus, Chantel oversees our clinical programs and supervises our clinical team of 8 Case Managers and Direct Support Professionals. She specializes in medical case management, health education, and housing case management. She brings more than 18 years of experience as a client advocate and mental health professional. Chantel is passionate about creating a holistic, motivating program at Project Lazarus that uses accountability, support, and compassion to help participants meet their goals.
Alesia Ridley, Medical Case Manager
Alesia Ridley graduated from Southern University in New Orleans in 2022. Upon graduation, Mrs. Ridley received a Cum Laude award and was named a Title IV-E Scholar in Social Work. Previously employed by the Department of Children and Family Services, Mrs. Ridley has experience in child welfare, substance abuse, and mental health. In addition to her experience as a case manager dealing with clients of varying ages and diagnoses, Mrs. Ridley has also worked as a disability advocate. In addition to enjoying working with people, Mrs. Ridley believes that everyone should be treated with equality, respect, and love. In addition to having a Bachelor of Social Work degree, Mrs. Ridley is a registered social worker with the Louisiana Board of Social Workers.
Hope Davis, Case Manager and Resident Care Coordinator
The Resident Care Coordinator is responsible for the day-to-day activities involving all aspects of personal care of our residents, including medication management and housing case management. Ms. Hope also supervises and trains our Direct Support Personnel, works with our nutritionist to develop weekly menus, and ensures that our residential facilities are in working order.
Carol Oliver, Facilities Manager
The Facilities Manager manages and maintains Project Lazarus’s extensive infrastructure, ensuring that the historic buildings are maintained and kept in good repair. She provides basic maintenance, coordinates repairs, and, as a Master Gardener, delights in the upkeep of our beautiful grounds, gardens, ponds, and sitting areas.
Ahmad Taylor
Direct Support Professional
Albert Payne
Direct Support Professional
Jasmin French
Direct Support Professional
Shirley Knight
Direct Support Professional
Sharon Evans
Direct Support Professional