Our Mission & Vision

Contact: paula@communityhelpingplace.org

Paula Payne has been a cornerstone of Community Helping Place since 2008, playing a key role in the growth and success of the Anne Green Free Clinic. With a background in managing a Free Clinic in Kentucky, Paula brings a wealth of experience in operations and management, along with a Business degree. She is a dedicated member of the Dahlonega Women’s Club and is deeply committed to serving those in need with compassion and excellence.

Contact: debi@communityhelpingplace.org

Debi Holloway joined the staff of CHP in 2017 as the part-time client navigator, eventually moving into her current full-time position where she provides direct support and oversight of the Food Pantry, Summer Food Program, Emergency Assistance and The Spirit of Christmas program. Debi’s educational and life experiences in social work have given her many useful skills and tools for serving those in need in our community.

Contact: jennifer@communityhelpingplace.org

Jennifer O’Kelley has spent her adult life in the helping profession and sees it as her true calling. She brings compassion and experience to her role at Community Helping Place, finding joy in seeing others grow and improve.

Jennifer has called North Georgia home since 1996. She enjoys spending time in nature and being with her family, friends, and pets.

Contact: tristen@communityhelpingplace.org

Tristen Parrish is the Communications Manager at Community Helping Place, where she uses her creativity and heart for service to connect people with purpose. She joined CHP in May 2023 and previously served as administrator of Concord Baptist Church’s Dahlonega Campus.

A proud mom of two, Tristen is passionate about serving her community and also sits on the Board of Directors for Lumpkin County Family Connection.

Contact: regina@communityhelpingplace.org

Regina Wright serves as Case Manager at Community Helping Place, where she brings a wealth of experience and a strong commitment to community service. She lives in Dahlonega with her husband and three children and is deeply rooted in the local area.

Regina has served as a mentor with Lumpkin County Family Connection, is a member of the American Legion Auxiliary, a past president of the Kiwanis Club, and is actively involved at Dahlonega Presbyterian Church.

Contact: emily@communityhelpingplace.org

Emily Hudgins is the Volunteer Coordinator at Community Helping Place. She holds a degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Liberty University and is passionate about building community and supporting others. Emily is a proud wife and mom of two young children.

Contact: ilire@communityhelpingplace.org

Illire Zeneli is the Business Manager at Community Helping Place, where she brings extensive experience in financial management and a passion for supporting nonprofit work that makes a difference.

Outside of work, she enjoys life with her spirited toddler and loving spouse of nearly a decade. Balancing family and career keeps her grounded and motivated in all she does.

Contact: erin@communityhelpingplace.org

Erin Cook is a Certified Medical Assistant and Clinic Operations Manager for the Anne Green Free Clinic at Community Helping Place. With years of experience working alongside Dr. Kim Kurtz, Erin now oversees clinic operations and leads the Mobile Community Outreach program, bringing healthcare directly to those in need in Lumpkin County.

Contact: linda@communityhelpingplace.org

Linda Sanchez is the Clinic Operations Manager for the Community Helping Place Anne Green Free Clinic. Linda is a certified dental assistant, who also helps with the day-to-day operations of the clinic front office. Linda is bilingual in Spanish and English and brings a warmth and joy to her work with all patients. Linda has four children and one grandson! In her spare time, She is a proud member of the Gold City Lions Club and a faithful volunteer at the Torch working with children and puppet ministry, and she loves dogs!

Contact: brad@communityhelpingplace.org

Dr. Brad Blazek began providing counseling and therapy services at Community Helping Place in 2019. Today, he works alongside a team of case managers to help clients address and overcome the root causes of their challenges. Brad is often described by clients as a vital source of support and a trusted guide on their path to healing.

Blue Barry was rescued by a food pantry volunteer and surrendered to animal control who found him the ideal job and lifestyle working at CHP in the Rock House office. His official job title is Director of Pest Control, but he has quickly moved into his secondary roles as Official Greeter and Emotional Support Cat for the office. Blue Barry can be found in the laps of clients and staff alike, always ready to be petted and provide comfort and support.