Born in Kirovohrad, Ukraine—where sunflowers symbolize resilience, warmth, and belonging—Helen Bond is the Founder and Executive Director of Sunflower Roots Inc. She leads program development, strategic partnerships, and organizational vision to support older adults in staying active, connected, and engaged across Marin and Sonoma Counties.

Helen designs innovative intergenerational programs that integrate art, culture, and storytelling to promote emotional well-being and social connection. For Helen, this work is deeply meaningful. She believes it is essential to keep all three generations—children, adults, and seniors—connected, ensuring that values, traditions, and life experiences are not lost, but shared and passed on to younger generations. 

Her work is deeply personal and rooted in her cultural background, where strong community ties and intergenerational connection are central. In addition to her work in the United States, Helen supports humanitarian efforts in Ukraine by building partnerships and connecting resources to orphaned and displaced children—extending Sunflower Roots’ mission across borders.

Lisa Rago leads the Seeds of Spirit program at Sunflower Roots Inc., where she is responsible for guiding its development and implementation as a compassionate, non-clinical emotional and spiritual support initiative.

A retired Registered Nurse with decades of experience across multiple disciplines—including end-of-life care—Lisa brings a grounded presence, clinical insight, and deep compassion to her work. She holds a Master’s degree in Transpersonal Psychology, along with a background in general psychology with a concentration in addictions, supporting her holistic, mind-body-spirit approach to care and human connection.

She trains and guides companions, shapes program structure, and ensures that each interaction reflects dignity, empathy, and respect for the individual’s life story, beliefs, and emotional needs.

Her leadership strengthens the program’s ability to complement hospice and palliative care by addressing the often unmet emotional and spiritual needs of participants. Lisa’s work embodies the core philosophy of Seeds of Spirit: being present, listening deeply, and honoring the inner life of every individual.

Based in Kyiv, Ukraine, Olena Romanchenko is a dedicated social worker and child advocate with over twenty years of experience supporting orphaned and displaced children. Through her work in family outreach and humanitarian coordination, she has become a trusted leader in developing programs that promote emotional healing, stability, and long-term resilience for youth affected by war.

In addition to her humanitarian efforts, Olena has served as a resource and advocate in the adoption process, helping connect children with families and guiding caregivers through complex transitions with compassion and care. 

As a Board Member of Sunflower Roots, Inc., Olena leads initiatives focused on strengthening connections with Ukrainian orphan communities. She plays a vital role in expanding direct outreach, building strategic partnerships, and ensuring that resources and support reach children and caregivers where they are most needed. Her work bridges international efforts with local impact, bringing compassion, continuity, and meaningful support to vulnerable populations.

Reverend Jeff Lienkaemper brings a unique blend of spiritual grounding and practical leadership to Sunflower Roots Inc. With a humble, hands-on approach, he supports the organization in whatever way is needed—ensuring that programs, partnerships, and daily operations run with care and integrity.

As Treasurer and Operations Coordinator, Jeff oversees financial management, fundraising support, and organizational logistics. His leadership provides a strong foundation that allows Sunflower Roots programs to grow and reach more seniors and community members.

Rooted in a lifelong commitment to faith and service, Jeff plays an essential role in supporting programs and social connection for older adults. His work helps bring to life the Golden Spiral philosophy—where meaningful connections begin with individuals and expand outward into a broader, more connected community.​

Through his dedication to volunteerism and community building, Jeff helps create spaces where seniors feel welcomed, valued, and connected. His leadership reflects the heart of Sunflower Roots: service, humility, and a deep commitment to human connection across generations.