Staff

Danielle started with TEXAS YES in July of 2015. Prior to becoming the Executive Director, Danielle worked at several national non-profits. Danielle started her non-profit career working for the Muscular Dystrophy Association in the Coastal Bend, as a Fundraising Coordinator and became the Executive Director a year later. After moving to the San Antonio area, Danielle joined the American Heart Association managing the social events, the annual Heart Ball, and the Go Red for Women Luncheon. Within the first three years, she increased the Heart Ball from $280,000 to over $1 million dollars and doubled the number of active members for the Circle of Red. Danielle had been told by her father since an early age to ‘always give back to the community you live in’ and she has kept this at the forefront of what she does.  When she became a mother, her passion to support kids became stronger and she joined SA YES, which became TEXAS YES Project in May 2022. Since becoming the Executive Director, the free school supply program, Box of Dreams, has grown from serving 22,000 kids in San Antonio, to supporting 85,000 elementary students across the state.

Her more than 20 years of experience and passion has led to help support other organizations in San Antonio with event and auction support.

Favorite memory: There are too many to choose just one, however, my very first distribution day or I should say days.  I have never experienced such personal emotions as I did that day.  The teachers and staff thanking me, the kids being so excited and high fiving us and the little boy who thanked me because he didn’t have any supplies. Over the last 8 years, I can add in the smiles and excitement on the kid’s faces when we unveil a new Little Locker, and we have their favorite authors.

Favorite quote: “Strive not to be a success, but rather to be of value.” – Albert Einstein

If they could be any animal: Elephant. I view elephants as majestic and powerful creatures. Growing up I wanted to be the same, powerful in what I did and never forgetting the lessons I have learned.

How she spends her free time: I enjoy traveling with family and friends, reading, attending concerts and two-stepping.

To reach Danielle: Danielle.gunter@texasyesproject.org

Marissa started with TEXAS YES in April 2019. Prior to becoming part of the team, Marissa volunteered at Drive Away for Education Telethons and the mission is what drew her to become part of the team.

Favorite memory: The first time I participated in ‘distribution day’ and seeing all the kids walking in the gymnasium with huge smiles on their faces as they watch a dancing Doc McStuffins hand out school supplies. The kids were so excited as they gave hugs and high fives while others proceeded to tell Doc McStuffins that they saw her on tv.

Favorite quote: “The Earth has music for those who listen.” – Shakespeare

If they could be any animal: Blue Whale. Personally, I’m terrified of the deep ocean but if I were a Blue Whale, I would be the largest animal on the planet and I would be able to enjoy the ocean without any fears. Fun fact did you know the tongue of the blue whale is as big as an elephant?

How she spends her free time: I like to spend my free time with my family. My husband is a firefighter, so I treasure the time he is home with me and our 2-year-old son. We like to have BBQ’s and invite our friends over for margaritas. When were not at home we can be found singing and dancing the night away at a concert.

To reach Marissa: Marissa.moreno@texasyesproject.org

Alison began her career in paralegal and investor relations roles in New York City and now brings over six years of valuable experience in San Antonio, where she has excelled at cultivating donor relationships and driving impactful initiatives at the San Antonio Museum of Art and San Antonio Pets Alive!. Ali joined the TEXAS YES team in August 2024 and is dedicated to fostering positive and lasting change in the many communities we serve.

Favorite Memory: During my second week at TEXAS YES Project, I had the privilege of witnessing the incredible impact of our Box of Dreams Program in Corpus Christi. As we distributed school supply kits, I encountered passionate teachers and smiling volunteers who guided the kids through a lively lineup of friendly faces and beloved characters like Dory, Buzz Lightyear, and the Minions. The awe on the children’s faces and the joy radiating from their teachers as they saw their students excited and equipped to kick off the school year truly warmed my heart. It was an unforgettable experience!

Favorite Quote: “Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead

Animal:  If I could be any animal, I’d choose a honeybee. Often overlooked, bees show us how small actions can have a BIG impact. They highlight the importance of helping others, as they work together to support their hive and the world around them—demonstrating how collaboration and purpose create lasting, positive change.

Free Time: I love spending time outdoors (when the weather is cooler of course) or near water, whether at a lake or the ocean. I enjoy watching documentaries that spark my curiosity and cherish quality moments with friends, who have become my Texas family. With a strong passion for animal welfare, I also look forward to fostering more dogs in need of a safe place to stay since they can come to work with me! Additionally, I’m eager to reconnect with Rotary Clubs and Toastmasters to further engage with and collaborate in my community.

Julie started her career as a 3rd grade teacher and has worn many hats supporting children in our community over the past 25 years. She was drawn to the mission of what Texas YES Project does for our schools after seeing Danielle do a tv interview talking about distribution day. She knew then she had to be a part of the agency that makes a difference in so many children’s lives.

Favorite memory: I wish everyone could experience a distribution day at the elementary schools. I saw many kids hug their supplies, dance, and jump up and down with excitement. It wasn’t only the kids though. The teachers too had relief on their faces knowing the students would be prepared and ready to learn! The staff was extremely grateful, and I must have heard “Thank you” over a hundred times.

Favorite quote: Preach the gospel at all times. Use words when necessary. -St Francis of Assisi

If they could be any animal: I would be a bear. But not just any bear… I would be a mama bear as I feel this relates to my journey as being a mom. I stand strong for my own children, those who are part of our village, and for kids who need someone to stand up for them. A bear is protective and tough but also has a playful side. They also love to eat!

How you spend your free time: I love spending time with my family, reading, and enjoying a day at the beach. My husband and I are always looking for new bands and try to find live music wherever we are.