Meet Jeff Hinderscheid, a dynamic and accomplished professional with over a decade of experience in health and human services and in working with children in the performing arts. With a BA in Drama from UC Irvine and a Masters degree in Psychology with a specialization in Mental Health Administration, Jeff brings a unique and well-rounded perspective to his role as the Executive Director of Sol Treasures. Throughout his 11 years with the Monterey County Department of Social Services, Jeff served in three departments and eventually rose to the role of a journey-level social worker V in child welfare. Along the way to family and children’s services, Jeff worked in the community benefits branch assisting families in need of public assistance, as well as aging and adult services as a social worker with the aged and disabled populations of the county, and he became a staff trainer for incoming staff in all departments. His experience with the many disadvantaged and underserved populations in Monterey County helped him develop a deep commitment to improving the lives of those in his community, and he continues to do so through his passion for the arts. As an avid arts enthusiast and performing artist, Jeff is dedicated to sharing the arts with all populations throughout the community. He has directed many successful productions at Sol Treasures, including the first musical production of Beauty and the Beast Jr. in 2010, through The Little Mermaid and Frozen Jr. in 2022, and most recently, Once on This Island Jr. in Fall of 2023. He also recently played Tevye in Sol Treasures' Spring production of Fiddler on the Roof, a production that gained high praise from arts advocates all over the county. Jeff currently sits on the Board of Directors of the South Monterey County Center for the Performing Arts, and also teaches Psychology at Hartnell College in the evenings. As a skilled and dedicated professional, Jeff is committed to making a positive impact in the lives of those around him through his work and through his zeal and enthusiastic love for the arts. Jeff believes the arts have the power to heal, unite, empower, and create strong and compassionate youth today, for a healthier society tomorrow.

Jude Yriarte is a dynamic grant writer and gallery curator with a deep passion for community involvement, social equity, and the transformative power of the arts. As a dedicated advocate for positive change, Jude actively contributes to her community through various roles, including serving on the advisory board for The Central Coast Rural Communities Foundation and the King City Art Selection Committee. Her commitment to the arts extends further as a Grant Evaluator for the Arts Council for Monterey County, where she helps support creative projects that enrich the community.

In addition to her work in the arts, Jude plays a vital role in The Cuesta Curiosity League (CCL), focusing on securing housing for unhoused students and their families, demonstrating her dedication to social equity and well-being. Jude's background in Art History and Professional Practices informs her work, blending her love for art with a strong commitment to making a meaningful impact on her community.

Maria Turner is the Operations Manager at Sol Treasures, where she channels her passion for helping others achieve their goals and develop lifelong skills. Her journey in education and community service began in 2009 at San Ardo Elementary School, where she started as a paraeducator. Her dedication quickly grew, leading her to join the school board and eventually become an after-school program coordinator. It was during this time that Maria discovered her true calling—bringing children together through the arts.

Recognizing the need for arts education in her community, Maria forged key partnerships, including one with Sol Treasures, to introduce impactful programs to the students in San Ardo. Her commitment to education didn’t stop there; while coordinating the after-school program, she also served as the chair of the Head Start Parent Committee, an experience that inspired her to further her education.

Motivated by her desire to make a difference, Maria enrolled in a bachelor's degree program at The University of Arizona Global Campus, earning her degree in Education Studies with a minor in psychology. As a lifelong learner, Maria has developed essential skills that she brings to her role at Sol Treasures, where she continues to support and advocate for education in the arts.

Aya holds a degree in piano performance from Elisabeth University of Music in Hiroshima, Japan. With extensive experience teaching students of all ages, from young children to adults, she has honed her skills in various educational settings, including the Yamaha Music School in Japan and preschools and elementary schools in the US. Currently, Aya offers private piano and violin lessons at Sol Treasures, where she continues to share her passion for music. She also enjoys making music with her family and is an active member of the Hartnell College Orchestra.

Verenice Amezcua is a multi-talented artist and educator, deeply passionate about sharing the richness of cultural traditions and artistic expression. With a versatile skill set that spans teaching Baile Folklorico, guiding creative arts and crafts sessions, and actively contributing as a dedicated member of our Dia De Los Muertos committee, Verenice brings a vibrant and authentic energy to everything they do. Her commitment to preserving and celebrating cultural heritage while inspiring creativity in others makes her an invaluable member of our team.

Debra Cobb is a self-taught embroiderer and mosaicist with a passion for lifelong learning. Over the years, she has refined her skills through classes with the Embroiderer’s Guild of America, the Royal School of Needlework, and instructors like Lucy Barter, as well as through self-directed study, including countless hours on YouTube. Her experiences as a medieval re-enactor and world traveler have greatly influenced her work, inspiring her to explore a variety of textiles and techniques.

Debra particularly enjoys working with silk threads but finds great joy in adding goldwork, beads, and gemstones to many of her pieces, bringing an extra touch of "bling" to her creations. In the past five years, she has focused on creating needlework from her own designs, some of which have been exhibited by the San Francisco School of Needlework and Design. She also enjoys sharing her knowledge through teaching, dedicated to reviving the age-old art of embroidery so that it can be worn, touched, manipulated, gifted, and re-interpreted for modern times.

Since 2017, Debra has also delved into the world of mosaics, working with both ceramic and glass tiles. She now creates custom designs for a range of items, from table tops and wall décor to lazy susans, serving trays, and garden art. Her commissioned needlework and mosaic services are fully customizable, and photos of her work are available upon request.

Nica White is a versatile artist and educator with expertise in a wide range of creative disciplines, including digital design, photography, arts and crafts, mural work, and 3D design. Her passion for art is matched by her dedication to teaching, as she inspires students to explore and develop their own artistic talents across multiple mediums. Whether guiding a digital design project or leading a hands-on arts and crafts session, Nica brings creativity, enthusiasm, and a wealth of knowledge to every class.