Shawn Worth- Shop Steward / Vehicle Maintenance- ext. 1017

Shawn is a Yurok Tribal member, born and raised in the area. He joined the YIHA staff August of 2009. Prior to working for us, he worked as a mechanic for the Northern Humbolt Unified School District for a number of years. "I'm happy to be working for YIHA and hoping to help in any way that I can. Its important to see that our people get a fair deal, especially our elders. Even though I dont have direct contact with our clients, the behind the scenes guy is just as important in each step of the process in getting each job done accurately and efficiently".

Arlen Charles- Grounds Keeping / Custodian

Arlen has been with YIHA for years and will probubly remain our living mascot for several more to come. While most would choose to retire, our dear, sweet ole' Arlen just keeps clocking in day after day. He is 72 years young, born and raised here in the area. He had the honor of being our first "Local Joe" in the new version of our YIHA Newsletter. He has 4 kids and several grandchildren. When asked how he feels about working for YIHA, he says, "I'm still here aren't I? I must like it."

Dan Potts- Maintenance Lead

Dan has worked for YIHA for just over 1 year now. He was born and raised in Vacaville, CA and moved to this area in 1990. Prior to working for us, he has several years experience in general construction, owned his own janitorial business, was a correctional officer at Pelican Bay for 10 years, and served 5 years in the Marine Corp. "YIHA is a fun place to work. The additional staff that we have recently brought on board has made it so that much more work can be accomplished for Yurok tribal families. No matter how grueling the day may be, the end result is always worth every bead of sweat."

Larry Nova- Maintenance Lead

Larry has worked for YIHA for the past 3 years. He began as a temporary from the TERO list and then became a full time employee for the Maintenance department. Born and raised in Klamath ( a decendent of the Morke village), Larry is excited about the recent changes in YIHA's operation, as well as the increase in staff. "More people on staff means we get to help more people in the tribe and thats what we are all about".

Darrell Simms- Up-River Maintenance Worker- 530-625-4785

Darrell is the newest addition to the Maintenance Staff. His primary target area is the up-river area and some work in the South District. He started working for YIHA January 14th, 2010. Born in Santa Rosa, Darrell has been raised his whole life in the Eureka/McKinleyville area. Prior to working for YIHA, he worked 32 consecutive years at Stanton's Coffee shop in Eureka. Darrell says that he "really enjoys working here. The people are nice and easy to work with. Its a great thing to help our Elders and tribal members and be a part of that dream."

Antonio Gonzalez- Maintenance Worker

Tony is a tribal memeber who has just recently moved to this area from Mexico/Arizona. He joined the YIHA staff in September of 2009 and is excited about getting to know the area and people of his ancestry. He has background in mechanics and custodial duties within a school district in Arizona. "This is just the kind of job that I was looking for. One that not only provides for a future, but one that helps other people at the same time. How rewarding is that!"