Meet Our Staff
Emily Lowery – Executive Director
Emily projects the calm assurance of someone who has dealt with greater adversity than today is likely to bring. She speaks reflectively about the path that brought her through a period of darkness that included homelessness to a successful career, an invitation to join The Haven Board, and now a calling to serve on its staff.
She joined our staff in January 2012. Starting in administration and making her way up to the role of Executive Director, “has been humbling”, she states. “To know where I’ve come from and where I’m at now is only through a Power greater than me.”
Email Emily at: Emily@havenoftc.org
Sasha – Case Manager
Sasha joined our staff in the Spring of 2019. A native Floridian and the daughter of Cuban immigrants, Sasha holds a B.A. in Psychology from The University of South Florida, and a Masters in Education with a specialization in Guidance and Counseling from American Military University. After receiving her B.A., she worked in the inner cities of Tampa, Clearwater, and St. Petersburg Florida with the severely and persistently mentally ill, families, battered woman, and conditionally released inmates.
She completed her Master’s internship in the rural area of Ellijay Georgia, primarily working with the Guatemalan population, providing resources and empowerment classes for adolescent girls and helping parents with struggles acclimating to the United States. Now with the Haven, she will be working with clients to help them meet and obtain their goals to maximize their success and reach self sufficiency as they transition from The Haven back into the community. Sasha is passionate about helping others achieve their highest potential.
Email Sasha at: Sasha@Havenoftc.org
Laurene Sackett – Administrative Coordinator
Originally from Yonkers, New York, Laurene Sackett made North Carolina home in 2006 when her employer moved their HQ to Research Triangle Park. She and her family lived in Raleigh for about 15 years before moving to WNC to be closer to her son, daughter-in-law, and her three granddaughters who bring her endless joy. A devoted grandmother with an exceptionally kind heart, she is known for her warmth, empathy, and genuine care for others. At The Haven, those qualities shine through every day. Whether speaking with a prospective guest or supporting a colleague, she listens with compassion and treats everyone with dignity. She is deeply moved by the stories she hears, a reflection of the heart she brings to her work.
Professionally, Laurene has built a distinguished career providing executive-level administrative and operational support for Fortune 500 organizations including Bayer, Lenovo, and Pepsico. Her experience includes executive support, facilities management, budgeting, event planning, vendor relations, and process improvement.
In and out of the office, she enjoys sharing a good cup of coffee and reminiscing about her days as a classic rock singer, performing alongside her drummer husband. An authentic Italian food chef, Laurene’s kindness and generosity make her an invaluable part of The Haven family.
Email Laurene at: laurene@havenoftc.org
Dimah Abdulkarim — Development Director
Dimah is a development and partnerships professional with more than a decade of experience in strategic communications, donor engagement, relationship management, and resource mobilization. Dimah has both global and local experience in humanitarian and development aid, where she has helped build partnerships and support programs focused on community resilience and sustainability. A Brevard native with north-African heritage, Dimah is passionate about connecting people to causes that strengthen communities. She values the power of connection and believes that when people come together in support of their community, meaningful change becomes possible.
Email Dimah at: dimah@havenoftc.org
Brad Snipes – Mental Health Clinician
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Tavia Ricardi – Shelter Assistant
Tavia’s journey to The Haven is a powerful reminder of the resilience and hope we strive to inspire every day. After relocating to Western North Carolina with her son for a new job and a fresh start, Hurricane Helene changed everything. Just before they were set to move into their new apartment, the housing arrangement fell through, leaving them unexpectedly unhoused in a community where they knew almost no one.
The Haven’s Family House provided the stability they needed while Tavia rebuilt her life. Determined, she continued working, pursued her accounting studies, earned a promotion to Shift Manager, and remained determined despite the region’s ongoing housing shortage. Eventually, she successfully secured a home for her family.
Today, Tavia has come full circle as a Shelter Assistant at The Haven. Her firsthand understanding of homelessness, unwavering determination, and compassionate heart allow her to connect deeply with the guests we serve. We are very lucky to have her as part of our team and excited for the difference she will make in the lives of others.
Email Tavia at: tavia@havenoftc.org
Shelter Assistants
The Haven has up to five Shelter Assistants that monitor the shelters, oversee daily activities and supplies, security, provide support and care for our guests.
We are fortunate that over 50% of our staff have lived experience of homelessness. This not only provides a perspective that others may not have, but empathy with the people we serve.
Updated 6/29/2026