Founder & Executive Director
Okha Shank Butler
Okha’s story begins with her mother, Usha, who was born in Zambia, Africa, and her father, born in India, who moved to California in pursuit of "the American dream". When she was only 9 months old, Okha’s life was altered when her mother was tragically murdered. Later, at age 22, her father was wrongfully arrested and is now serving life without parole. Healing modalities saved Okha's life.
Okha is certified with 500 hours of yoga teacher training, has completed the Nervous System Reset course in Bali, Usui Holy Fire III Reiki Certified. Okha also holds a master’s degree in education dedicating 9 years in the education system. She has graduated twice from the Essie Justice Group’s Campaign School and from Initiate Justice's Institute for Impacted Leaders. Okha is passionate and determined to making retreats accessible to those affected by incarceration. She sees a specially curated retreat center 90 minutes outside of Los Angeles for people who are affected by incarceration and domestic violence to experience. The name of The Heart Center came to Okha when she was playing in the sand in Joshua Tree. Okha is a natural visionary who feels deeply called to this work.
Program Manager
Misti Hassan
Misti's journey is one of transformation and healing. While spending nine years incarcerated, she discovered the healing power of wellness practices and tools that helped her restore balance, rebuild self-worth, and reconnect with her inner strength.
Today, Misti is a passionate advocate for mental health awareness and decarceration, believing deeply that everyone deserves access to practices that foster emotional resilience, grounding, and renewal. Misti uses both her lived experience and expertise to champion a more compassionate and just system, proving that second chances and healing aren't just possible… they're essential.
Board of Directors
Treasurer
Cara Bryce
An empowerer of women, Cara has a Bachelor of Arts in Accounting & Finance from Portland State University and a background as a public auditor. Her superpower is helping women of color build start-up businesses, aiding them in blazing their personal paths toward power and fulfillment. While her passion began in the PNW, she has since moved to Los Angeles, expanding to work with a variety of community organizations and small businesses to assist them in their growth and operations. Away from her Excel sheets and Zoom meetings, Cara enjoys practicing dance and exploring various forms of movement as a way of working through life traumas. She also dabbles in other holistic modalities, including somatics, herbalism, and meditation. It was this healing journey, and a yoga class, that connected her with Okha.
Secretary
Paradyse Oakley
Paradyse Oakley (she/her/they) is on Tongva Land, South Central Los Angeles, California. Paradyse is a recent graduate of the University of California Santa Cruz, majoring in Community Studies, Critical Race and Ethnic Studies and Politics. Paradyse identifies as an abolitionist, Black Feminist, Intersectional Environmentalist, and cultural worker. Paradyse is working with Parenting for Liberation which supports the inter-generational healing journey for Black families while navigating the balance of loving our children and protecting them. Paradyse is currently a Solís Policy Institute Fellow working on legislation for incarcerated birthing individuals to have dignity concerning Environmental Justice, Reproductive Justice and Community Care. A long time community member of South Central Los Angeles, Paradyse lives her life with the love & dedication to her community in mind at all times. Inspired by the motto “see a need, fill a need;” she aims to use her skills and resourcefulness to aid her community’s needs. She is an advocate for taking as much time to rest as needed. She is a down to earth foodie ready to try amazing vegan food.
Board Member
Dani Gray
Rooted in the sun-kissed landscapes of Hawaii, Dani's journey embodies the transformative power of compassion. A steadfast partner navigating life's challenges with unwavering love, she volunteers with boundless generosity, infusing every act with a heartwarming touch. As the Director of HR for The Heart Center, Dani's influence reflects her innate strength and years of expertise in the field. A devoted mother to two bright minds, she nurtures growth with wisdom and care. Dani's commitment to her community radiates through her unwavering presence, as she stands ready to uplift those in need. As an outside organizer with Initiate Justice and an Essie sister, she channels dedication into transformation, and her role as a powerful Essie facilitator for the Healing to Advocacy program underscores her ability to guide profound healing journeys. In the symphony of life, Dani's melody is one of courage, compassion, and the profound impact of a heart dedicated to making the world a better place.
Board Member
Richard Mireles
A dynamic public speaker and expert communicator with advanced leadership experience, Richard has a Bachelor of Arts in Healthcare Management from California Coast University. A certified career coach with additional certifications from the world-renowned Toastmasters International, he is also an Alcohol & Other Drug Counselor who has been recognized by the state of California for his efforts in the recovery community. Richard spent 20 years inside the California Department of Corrections & Rehabilitation, during which he co-founded Inside Solutions and lead intern for CROP Organization’s programs offered within correctional institutions. A graduate of Initiate Justice's "Institute of Impacted Leaders," Richard was found suitable for parole at his initial Board of Parole hearing and was released in March 2019. Today he is the Director of Outreach & Engagement at CROP Organization and host of The Prison Post Podcast.
Board Member
Leila Rachedi
A nurturer by nature, Leila was born and raised in Southern California. Her greatest gifts lie in her ability to genuinely hold a safe space for another, a spot where individuals can come to feel seen, supported, and heard. It is her hope that through such interaction, both she and those she supports can release their fears, long-held stories, and life uncertainties in order to pursue growth in an atmosphere of vulnerability, acceptance, and love.
Board Member
Edwin Paragus
Edwin Paragas, at 10 years old, emigrated to the U.S. with his family, forced to flee the Philippines after Mount Pinatubo erupted. Edwin experienced immigration and other childhood traumas, which led to gang involvement, substance use, and truancy. At 16, he was tried and convicted as an adult and received a life sentence. With the help of Healing Dialogue and Action, Edwin was able to find true accountability through making amends and being of service to others. After serving 24 years in prison, Edwin earned his way out of the system and stepped into his life’s true purpose. Today, Edwin is a trauma-informed advocate and a wounded healer. He is a Re-Entry Director at HDA, often accompanying to court the person who harmed and the people and communities that were impacted. Edwin is also court appointed gang expert. Edwin created a mindfulness program for Boundless Freedom Project that is implemented throughout California, and most recently, added to Rikers Island. Edwin is a Board Member for Mass Liberation and the advisory board for Restorative Fund. Before HDA Edwin was membership Director for Transformative In-Prison Workgroup, community-based organization coalition throughout prisons in California ensuring there is access to transformative programs in prisons. Edwin is an inspiration and a mentor.
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