David-Lee Mattison
Chief Program Officer
David-Lee has more than two decades of combined experience working with unhoused individuals, as well as providing HIV prevention education and risk-reduction counseling services. He’s worked extensively with the LGBTI+ community, engaging high-risk racial and ethnic minority populations in nontraditional venues.
David-Lee is a certified National Behavioral Interventions Trainer for the Center of Disease Control (CDC) and the Georgia Department of Health. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Tourism and Hospitality Management from Norfolk State University.
As an active member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, he’s passionate about improving the quality of life for everyone in his community.
When he’s not working, David-Lee enjoys time in the yard and creating new recipes. Email David-Lee.
Beverly Banks-Greene
Director of Operations
An Atlanta native, Beverly is a proud graduate of Spelman College (B.A.), earned a master’s in mass communications from the University of Georgia.
Beverly, who joined the Emmaus House staff in 2009, keeps things running smoothly and efficiently by managing the office, building, and grounds.
When not working at Emmaus House, she can be found at her son’s soccer game or swim meet, or painting with acrylics or watercolor. Email Beverly.
Rakia Reeves
Program Manager, Youth on the Move
Rakia was born and raised in the Peoplestown neighborhood. She has a passion for and dedication toward youth development and empowerment. Growing up, Rakia was involved in many of Emmaus House’s youth programming and volunteer opportunities, including Summer’s Away, Camp Mikel, and Christmas holiday programs.
A true Peoplestown community advocate, Rakia has harnessed her talents and passion around youth work and development through her involvement with several neighborhood associations and organizations such as Atlanta Workforce and Development, Camp Best Friends, and Moving in the Spirit.
Rakia earned a B.S. in sociology from Savannah State University. While studying at Savannah State, Rakia’s life passion for dance and music shined through her role as an auxiliary dancer. In her spare time, Rakia loves to spend time with her daughter making crafts and jewelry. Email Rakia.
Phenixx Adams
Program Manager, Supports for Success
SaPhenixx "Phenixx" Adams is a Georgia native born and raised in East Atlanta. Phenixx has a passion for advocating for underserved communities. She has spent the last several years building a network of resources to aid Metro Atlanta residents.
With a Master of Arts in Clinical Counseling from Brenau University, Phenixx specializes in trauma-informed care and therapeutic interventions. Phenixx has the unique understanding that you must look at an individual's experiences fully to assist them with progressing toward their goals. Phenixx's work has aided the following populations: unhoused youth and adults, domestic violence survivors, clients living with AIDS/HIV, and low-income Atlanta residents.
She is determined to bring equitable access to mental health and social resources to residents of Metro Atlanta. Phenixx is ecstatic to continue her efforts at Emmaus House, serving the heart of Peoplestown. Email Phenixx.
Lawanda Graham
Program Assistant
Lawanda is a transformational change leader who brings nearly 20 years of experience working with mission-driven organizations. A proud New Orleans native, she brings together her love of people, culture, and creativity with a deep commitment to helping others thrive.
She holds an Executive MBA from Kennesaw State University and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Grambling State University. Lawanda spent nearly 18 years at CARE USA in roles centered on people, technology, innovation, and change. Her passion for learning and development led her to opportunities to design and facilitate leadership and diversity workshops in East Africa, Asia, Europe, and North America.
Whether coaching teams, guiding operational improvements, or managing change, Lawanda brings clarity, purpose, and fun to the conversation. She leads with the belief that “one single moment” can change everything—and works to inspire those moments every day. Lawanda fuels her zest for life through travel, singing, outdoor activities, and tackling new creative challenges. Email Lawanda.
Savina Higgs
Program Assistant
Savina Higgs is a native of North Carolina and a graduate of North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies with a concentration in Cultural Change and Social Development. She’s also an author and an educator with more than 10 years of experience, having served in public, charter, and private school settings. Throughout her career, Savina has remained passionate about advocating for children and fostering a lifelong love of reading in every student she teaches. Email Savina.
Setcha Little
Program Assistant
Ms. Setcha is a dedicated educator and youth leader with a strong passion for literacy, mentorship, and holistic student development. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Valdosta State University and currently serves as a Special Education teacher with DeKalb County Schools, where she creates inclusive, supportive learning environments that help students thrive both academically and personally.
With over five years of experience working with students in grades K–8, Ms. Setcha is entering her fourth year with the Children’s Defense Fund Freedom Schools program. She previously served three years as a Servant Leader Intern (SLI) and now steps into the role of Site Coordinator, where she is committed to fostering a structured, engaging, and empowering experience for both scholars and staff.
In addition to her work in education, Ms. Setcha coaches basketball and flag football, using sports as a tool to teach discipline, teamwork, and confidence. Her background in psychology allows her to build meaningful connections with students, supporting their growth academically, socially, and emotionally.
Beyond the classroom and field, Ms. Setcha serves as a mentor and emerging life coach, bringing a relatable and impactful presence to the youth she serves. She is passionate about creating spaces where students feel seen, supported, and inspired to reach their full potential.
Herman Shackleford
Buildings and Grounds Coordinator
Shack grew up in Peoplestown and attended youth programs at Emmaus House. He has been on staff for over 20 years. His areas of responsibility include landscaping, cleaning, assigning work to and supervising the work of community service workers, driving, and assisting with setup for meetings. In his spare time, Shack enjoys gardening, fishing, and traveling.
Joseph Iarocci
Interim Executive Director
A longtime member of the Episcopal Cathedral of St. Philip, Joe Iarocci has served in many leadership roles both with the church and with large nonprofits across the country, including Interim Chief Executive Officer for MedShare, Interim CEO for Gray Matters Capital, and CEO of the Robert K. Greenleaf Center for Servant Leadership.
Prior to these roles, Joe worked with CARE USA for thirteen years as General Counsel, Chief Financial Officer, and Chief of Staff. Care USA is one of the world’s largest international nongovernmental organizations dedicated to ending extreme poverty.
With a background in business law, Joe received his A.B. magna cum laude from Brown University with honors, his J.D. from the Cornell Law School, and he was a Harlan Fiske Stone Scholar while attending the Columbia University School of Law as a visiting student. He also holds a Master’s Degree in Theological Studies from the Candler School of Theology.
In addition to his role at Emmaus House, Joe serves on the boards of Social Accountability International, the Georgia Center for Nonprofits, Foundation Center-Atlanta, and Gray Matters Capital. His past board service includes the Episcopal Cathedral of St. Philip, the MicroVest microfinance fund and the Piedmont Hospital Ethics Committee.
He lives in Atlanta with his wife, Laura, and has three grown daughters.
Email Joe.