Carrie Rai, MA, MSW, LMSW has over 15 years of experience working with individuals, groups, and communities. Growing up in Canada, Carrie saw the injustices and violence that has continuously been perpetrated against Indigenous populations, which compelled her to fight for change of systems, policies, and institutions.
Carrie has worked in many different systems including addictions, mental health, child welfare, homelessness and most recently public health. She brings a wealth of experience in community collaboration and team building as well as strategic planning, research and training skills. Carrie has a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Toronto, earned Master’s degrees in Anthropology and Social Work, and is a licensed social worker in the state of Texas.
She has made Texas her home for the past eight years along with her husband who is a native Texan and trans. Carrie and her husband share their home with two dogs, and in her spare time she enjoys running and hiking.

Alyssa was born in Houston and has lived in various parts of the city throughout her life. She went to University of Houston Clear Lake and received her Bachelor's of Science in Psychology with a certificate in Women’s and Gender studies.
Alyssa began at Tony’s Place as a volunteer in 2017 when she was coming into her own queer identity to connect to the LGBTQ community and find space for herself while also being able to give back. Since then, Alyssa has held case management positions in Houston and in Austin before coming full circle back to Tony’s Place as staff. Alyssa found her passion working with young adults and the LGBTQ+ community and seeks to always uphold Tony’s Place mission to affirm, support, and empower the Houston community.
In her spare time Alyssa likes to expand on her knowledge of advocacy and empowerment, and enjoys reading, spending time with friends and family, and going to local coffee shops.

Kwincy Chavis-Jones brings a strong background in youth development, education, and program leadership. Prior to joining Tony’s Place, he served in leadership roles within college-access and youth-serving programs, where he helped design and manage initiatives focused on academic success, life skills, and equitable access to opportunity. His work has consistently centered on empowering underserved populations and creating supportive environments where young people can grow and thrive.
In addition to his professional work, Kwincy is pursuing a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Teaching and Learning in Higher Education, with interests in transformational leadership, deeper learning, and the development of critical thinking skills among adult learners. His academic work complements his community practice, reflecting a commitment to lifelong learning and systems-level change.
Outside of work, Kwincy enjoys comics and crafting, often using creativity as a way to relax and express himself.

Jai, a native Houstonian, is a passionate advocate for community health, specializing in HIV/STI services and healthcare access. Since 2018, he has been an integral part of Tony's Place, providing crucial services and healthcare linkages for youth. His long-standing involvement has deepened his understanding of the organization's values and strengthened his commitment to serving vulnerable populations in Houston. Jai's dedication is supported by a Master's degree in Social Work from Stephen F. Austin State University, equipping him with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complex landscape of community health services.
While Jai's professional life is driven by his passion for helping others, he also values personal well-being and balance. He enjoys staying active at the gym and cherishes family time, recognizing these as essential to his effectiveness as a health advocate. As a native Houstonian, Jai brings a deep understanding of the local community to his work, allowing him to connect more effectively with those he serves. His blend of professional expertise, academic qualifications, and personal values make him a compassionate and effective champion for community health in Houston, demonstrating the power of dedication, continuous learning, and genuine care in making a lasting difference in people's lives.

A native of Kentucky, Drew moved to Houston in 2013 to work as an operator in the chemical process industry. After ten years working in chemical plants, he felt a calling to make a positive impact on his community and decided to pivot into the nonprofit world. Drew has worked as an advocate and coach with populations including the intellectual disability community and low-income students.
Currently pursuing a degree in Social Work at the University of Houston Downtown, Drew is focused on equipping himself with the knowledge and skills to further make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals facing hardship. Drew brings empathy, dedication, and a strong desire to empower others, while advocating for a more inclusive and supportive society.
When he is not studying or working, Drew enjoys playing guitar, video games, and experiencing new cultures through Houston’s diverse food scene.

Tom was born in New Jersey and relocated to Houston in 2024 with his partner. He brings a strong background in community-based work, having previously served at organizations providing syringe services, Ryan White Case Management, and HOPWA, where he supported individuals navigating complex health and housing systems.
Thomas joined Tony’s Place in the summer of 2025 as the Volunteer Coordinator, where he quickly became known for his collaborative approach and dedication to client-centered service. Driven by a deep passion for direct client work, he transitioned to the Case Management department in December 2025 to more closely support the individuals served by Tony’s Place.
He is actively involved in the LGBTQ+ community and currently serves as President of Houston Gaymers, in addition to volunteering with several other queer organizations throughout Houston. Thomas earned his degree in Political Science from The Pennsylvania State University and holds a certification in Nonprofit Management from Duke University, reflecting his long-term commitment to advocacy, service, and nonprofit leadership.

Shanay is a Houston native from the Alief area with a deep passion for serving and connecting with diverse communities. She embodies Tony’s Place’s mission and values through her belief that no child or adult should go without basic necessities and support. A graduate of Sam Houston State University with a degree in broadcast journalism, Shanay brings a unique blend of experience in social media management and promotions for top-10 radio stations, along with public service as an administrator with the Department of Family Protective Services. As Volunteer Coordinator, she is dedicated to recruiting and equipping volunteers with the tools needed to meaningfully support and empower those most in need. Shanay looks forward to helping grow Tony’s Place and strengthening the Houston community for all.

Tony’s Place Staff

Tony’s Place Board of Directors