Our Leadership

Black text on a transparent background that reads "Board of Directors" in bold capital letters.
  • A woman with curly hair tied up in a bun, smiling, wearing a black shirt, indoors with large windows and modern decor.

    Brandyn Gipe

    FOUNDER, CEO, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

    Brandyn deeply loves the Lord and believes He works miracles today. She completed three years of specialized ministry training and has nearly a decade of experience in the fight against child trafficking. She spent time as a direct care staff for at-risk youth and CSEC and has always served in ministry, especially with youth. She has seen firsthand the healing power of nature and working with animals. Brandyn has a deep passion for seeing the hurting encounter the transformational love of Jesus.

  • A smiling man with a beard and short dark hair, wearing a black shirt, outdoors with a blurred green background.

    Steven Gipe

    FOUNDER, CFO, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

    Steven Gipe is a nonprofit builder, educator, and leader with a deep commitment to restoring dignity and hope to vulnerable youth. As Co-Founder of Cedar Refuge, he brings over a decade of experience in trauma-informed youth mentorship, crisis response, and organizational leadership. His background in construction management and operations creates a unique blend of strategic execution and relational leadership. Steven is known for his steady presence, practical problem-solving, and people-first approach.

  • Smiling young woman with long dark hair wearing a light blue spaghetti strap top outdoors with trees and mountains in the background.

    Shannon Phillips

    VICE PRESIDENT

    Shannon has a bachelor's in Ministry to Victims of Sexual Exploitation and eight years of hands-on experience with CSEC and sexual trauma survivors. Called to this work since age 12, she has served in minor residential programs, directed a nonprofit ministering in strip clubs and brothels, and began her career in social work, often supporting trafficking survivors on her caseload. After finding deep healing in Jesus from her own sexual trauma, she knows His kindness and light bring true restoration in the darkest places.

  • A smiling woman with blonde hair, wearing a blue top, jewelry including earrings and a necklace, and posing against a plain background.

    Deborah Hiner

    SECRETARY

    Deborah Hiner is a passionate advocate and storyteller dedicated to raising awareness about human trafficking. In 2024, she founded Guardians for Freedom, a non-profit organization in Shasta County, and has partnered with A21 to host the Walk for Freedom for two consecutive years. After a successful career in executive recruiting, Deborah transitioned to full-time advocacy, channeling her leadership skills into meaningful community initiatives. She also writes compelling screenplays that shed light on social issues and inspire change.

  • A smiling man with a reddish beard and short dark hair outdoors, wearing a beige sweatshirt with a green and black stripe across the chest.

    Levi Crognale

    BOARD MEMBER

    Levi is a pastor, entrepreneur, and community leader with a passion for mentorship and youth development. As one of the founders of The Porch in Riverhead, NY, he uses coffee to facilitate encounters with Jesus. He has worked extensively with troubled youth in both California and Long Island, providing guidance and opportunities for growth. His experience in ministry, entrepreneurship, and nonprofit leadership equips him to drive sustainable community impact. Through collaboration and creativity, he is committed to building programs that change the trajectory for generations.

Our Board of Directors is united by a deep commitment to faith, integrity, and the mission of Cedar Refuge. Each member brings unique experience and passion to ensure that survivors of child trafficking receive the healing, care, and restoration they so urgently need. Together, we are building a refuge where hope is restored, and lives are transformed.

About Us
Text reading 'Our Board in Action'.
A man with a beard wearing a grey hoodie giving a presentation in front of a whiteboard filled with handwritten notes and diagrams.
Woman speaking at a rally with signs advocating to abolish slavery and human trafficking, decorated with black, white, and yellow balloons in a park gazebo.
A group of protesters holding signs about human trafficking, slavery, and sexual exploitation during a demonstration on a tree-lined sidewalk.
A young woman in a black dress standing at a podium, speaking into a microphone in a church or religious setting. Behind her, a large screen displays the text 'Walking in Faith'. The wall behind her has a large blue cross and decorative elements with the word 'HOPE'.
A woman with long dark hair holding a microphone and speaking on stage in a dimly lit venue with a wooden wall background.
A woman speaking at a public event about ending human trafficking, outdoors under a pavilion, with black, yellow, and white balloons, posters, and a banner that reads 'Abolish Slavery with Each Step' and 'Together, We Can End Human Trafficking.'

“Never underestimate the power of a small group of committed people to change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has.”

White text on black background reads "MARGARET MEAD".