Staff

My name is Kristen Powers (she/ella/y'all) and I am proud to serve as Benevolence Farm's Executive Director. After working in the criminal legal reform movement here in North Carolina, I am excited to lead an innovative organization that blends direct services, harm reduction, trauma-informed care, and advocacy. And all on a 13-acre farm in Alamance County! If you have questions about our work, you can reach me directly at kp [at] benevolencefarm.org

My name is Emunah (Mona) Evans and I am the Community Advocacy Director at Benevolence Farm. As the founder of Bonding Families, I use my position to work alongside and support other formerly incarcerated women, especially mothers, as they navigate their reentry experience. I also advocate for more resources that better serve the needs of people affected by incarceration.

I'm Eden Gustavsen. I began my relationship with Benevolence Farm in 2018 as a resident. After leaving the Farm, I remained in Alamance County and continued to be involved by volunteering. Currently, I am a staff member at the Farm, offering reentry support. I am thrilled to be part of an organization that truly transforms lives. Reach out at eden@benevolencefarm.org to hear more about my story.

My name is Erica Johnson and I serve as the Workforce Development Coordinator at Benevolence Farm, where I walk alongside women as they prepare for life and work beyond the program. I care deeply about creating spaces where women feel safe to learn, supported through challenges, and empowered to take ownership of their goals and futures.

I believe employment is about more than earning a paycheck — it’s about restoring dignity, expanding opportunity, and advancing justice for women rebuilding their lives after incarceration. I’m drawn to this work because I’ve seen how transformative it can be when accountability is paired with consistent, compassionate support.

By building relationships with local employers, I work to open doors to meaningful employment opportunities that reflect each woman’s strengths and aspirations. My approach is grounded in both professional training and personal insight, allowing me to meet each resident with empathy, authenticity, and deep respect for her journey.

My hope is that every woman leaves the program not only job-ready, but equipped with the confidence, clarity, and resilience to claim her place in the workforce — and in her community — with dignity and purpose.

Hi, I’m Donna Coleman, a Peer Support Specialist and Legal Advocate at Benevolence Farm. I’m passionate about restorative justice, mental health, and supporting people as they transition back into their communities. My work focuses on clarifying legal misconceptions, advocating for trauma‑informed and gender‑inclusive policies, and creating space for resilience and healing. At Benevolence Farm, I strive to combine empathy with practical guidance so that every person feels empowered to move forward with confidence and dignity.

Hello, my name is Latycia. I’m a proud mom of two amazing kids — an energetic 11-year-old son and a bright, beautiful 14-year-old daughter — and a loving dog mom as well.

In my free time, you can usually find me outdoors, enjoying the peace of nature. Whether I’m up in the mountains taking in the views or walking along a warm, relaxing beach, quality time is what I value most, especially when it’s spent with my family.