ABOUT US
ABOUT US
What is WAI?
WAI (Wellness and Inclusion for All Initiative) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the executive function of disadvantaged communities, including individuals affected by substance abuse, PTSD, homelessness, mental health challenges, and veterans in need of support. Through evidence-based therapeutic approaches such as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), and Neurological Reframing Therapeutic Reinforcement (NRTR), we aim to provide individuals with the tools they need to regain control over their lives and contribute positively to society.
Our Mission & Values
At WAI, we believe in the potential of every individual to rise above their challenges and lead fulfilling lives. Our mission is to enhance the executive function of disadvantaged communities—those dealing with substance abuse, PTSD in reentry populations, homelessness, and mental health challenges—through evidence-based therapies and compassionate support. We’re committed to fostering resilience, self-sufficiency, and a sense of community in every life we touch.
Our Core Values »
- Empathy: We treat every individual with compassion, understanding, and respect.
- Integrity: Transparency and accountability are the cornerstones of everything we do.
- Diversity: We celebrate and promote inclusivity in all aspects of our work, understanding that every voice and background enriches our community.
- Collaboration: We work hand-in-hand with our partners, communities, and clients to achieve shared goals.
- Innovation: We utilize cutting-edge therapeutic techniques like CBT, ABA, and MRI to provide effective, lasting support.
Founder’s Story
Waye Daurrough, the founder of WAI, has always been passionate about advocating for individuals whose voices are often overlooked in society. With a background in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and extensive experience working with vulnerable populations, Waye witnessed firsthand the gaps in treatment, care, and support that many individuals face—particularly in the reentry community, correctional facilities, and among those struggling with substance abuse and mental health disorders.
Waye's vision for WAI emerged from a desire to bridge these gaps by offering evidence-based therapies and creating inclusive environments where individuals from all walks of life could receive the care and attention they deserve. Determined to address the high failure rate in existing treatment systems, Waye set out to build an organization that focuses not only on treatment but also on long-term transformation.
Founder's Story
Waye Daurrough, the founder of WAI, has always been passionate about advocating for individuals whose voices are often overlooked in society. With a background in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and extensive experience working with vulnerable populations, Waye witnessed firsthand the gaps in treatment, care, and support that many individuals face—particularly in the reentry community, correctional facilities, and among those struggling with substance abuse and mental health disorders.
Waye's vision for WAI emerged from a desire to bridge these gaps by offering evidence-based therapies and creating inclusive environments where individuals from all walks of life could receive the care and attention they deserve. Determined to address the high failure rate in existing treatment systems, Waye set out to build an organization that focuses not only on treatment but also on long-term transformation.
Vision Statement
Our History
While WAI is a newly formed organization, our roots lie in years of research, planning, and deep commitment to addressing systemic issues in underserved communities. Established in the first quarter of 2024, WAI was founded with the goal of enhancing executive function in individuals and communities facing challenges related to substance abuse, reentry, homelessness, and mental health disorders.
In our early phase, we are focused on research and development, creating the infrastructure needed to launch facilities and programs that will offer evidence-based therapies and wraparound services. Our ultimate goal is to serve as a beacon of hope and transformation for those who need it most, and we are working diligently to raise the necessary funds through fundraising campaigns, events, and social engagement.
UNIEC (Unilateral Empowered Communities) is a subsidiary of WAI, committed to creating sustainable Supported Living Environments (SLE) for individuals with developmental disabilities, veterans, and members of the reentry community. We believe in empowering these communities by offering stable, secure, and supportive housing solutions that promote independence, well-being, and long-term success.
UNIEC operates under the guiding principles of the Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Act, a California law that outlines the rights and responsibilities of individuals with developmental disabilities. We ensure that everyone in our care receives the respect, dignity, and resources they need to thrive.
What is UNIEC?
What Does UNIEC Do?
At UNIEC, our mission goes beyond just providing housing — we create homes that offer a foundation for growth, rehabilitation, and empowerment.
Our services include:
- Sustainable Housing Solutions: Developing long-term, supportive living environments for individuals with developmental disabilities, veterans, and reentry populations.
- Compliance with the Lanterman Act: We adhere to the Lanterman Developmental Disabilities Act, ensuring that all residents have access to the rights, services, and protections afforded to them by law.
- Community Integration: We focus on reintegrating individuals back into society, providing the necessary tools and support for them to lead independent lives.
- Veteran & Reentry Programs: Our housing projects also serve veterans and individuals transitioning back from incarceration, giving them a stable home base to rebuild their lives.
Board & Staff
MARKO ANTONIO
Board President
ROSS VITAGA
COO - Chief Operations Officer
IRISH BELTRAN
Executive Assistant
Our leadership team is committed to creating an inclusive environment where every client feels seen, heard, and valued. We actively recruit a diverse team to ensure that our staff can relate to and understand the unique experiences of those we serve.