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.

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.

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.

Reverend Jeff Lienkaemper serves as Treasurer of Sunflower Roots Inc., providing responsible financial oversight and helping ensure the organization's long-term sustainability. His commitment to transparency and accountability helps build a strong foundation that allows Sunflower Roots to grow its programs and expand its impact within the community.

In addition to his role as Treasurer, Jeff offers spiritual and emotional support to the Sunflower Roots community. Through compassionate listening, encouragement, and a caring presence, he helps create an environment where individuals feel supported, valued, and connected during both joyful and challenging times.

Jeff believes that strong communities are built through kindness, respect, and genuine human connection. His dedication to serving others reflects the heart of Sunflower Roots—bringing people together, fostering hope, and creating a sense of belonging across generations.

His quiet leadership and unwavering commitment help cultivate a community where compassion inspires action and every person is reminded that they matter.