Who We Are and Who We Serve

Eyes of a Child is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (IRS Tax ID #260465075) dedicated to supporting nonprofits that assist exploited children living on the streets and families facing extreme poverty. We take pride in partnering with those who give generously and make a meaningful difference in children’s lives. Through impactful events, we raise awareness about global poverty and mobilize support to provide critical assistance through nonprofit collaborations.

Mission Statement

Eyes of a Child is devoted to delivering both immediate relief and long-term support to those experiencing hardship worldwide, including in the United States. Our mission is to build philanthropic resources and provide crucial grants to individuals, families, and humanitarian organizations, ensuring that aid reaches those who need it most.

Board Of Directors

Our board of directors are the backbone of our organization. These volunteers are responsible for overseeing the organization’s operations, ensuring it stays aligned with its mission and goals. They provide strategic direction, make key decisions, and ensure financial accountability. Each member of our board is committed to our mission, working tirelessly and voluntarily to make a difference.

EOAC is a 100% volunteer-run nonprofit organization. No one receives financial compensation—every donation directly supports those in need.

Antonio Covarrubia

Founder

About

Antonio Covarrubia, founder and CEO of Eyes of a Child, is a businessman, husband, and father dedicated to giving back. Born in Chile and raised by Rebecca Colodro de Bitran and Gabriel Bitran, he was instilled with values that shaped his success. Inspired by his childhood, he founded Eyes of a Child in 2007 to support children in need. The organization, built entirely on volunteer efforts, has expanded across Brazil, Mexico, and the U.S., developing impactful programs. Antonio also works at The John Stewart Company, overseeing affordable housing operations while ensuring compliance with regulations. His lifelong mission is to provide children the same opportunities he once received.

Karine Avila

President

About

Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Karine, daugther of Antonio, now lives in California with her husband and children. A histotechnologist at Kaiser Permanente since 2000, she began supporting Eyes of a Child in 2007 and took on the role of president in 2022.

Jelga

Vice President

About

Born and raised in Chile, Jelga joined Eyes of a Child in 2007. She works at the Child and Family Guidance Center, a nonprofit mental health organization in LA County founded in 1990. With over 30 years of experience, she currently serves as the Community Outreach Manager.

Rodrigo Gutierrez

2nd Vice President

Danielle Johnny

Executive Director

About

Danielle, daughter of Antonio, has supported Eyes of a Child since 2007 and became a director in 2016. Born in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, she now lives in California with her husband and son. She works as a Process Business Consultant at Kaiser Permanente.

Estela Franco

Secretary

Carolina Alvarez

Financial Director

About

Born and raised in Chile, Caroline grew up with limited resources and has lived in California since 1991 with her husband. She joined Eyes of a Child in 2013, and her greatest joy is spending time with her dog, Oso.

Clair Pizzi

Treasurer

About

Born and raised in Brazil, Clair Pizzi lives in California with his wife, Nelci Schallenberger (a member of the Board Committee), and their daughter. He works at Fogo De Chão, a Brazilian steakhouse, and has been a dedicated member of Eyes of a Child since 2011.

Matilde Soto Lopez

Corporate Philanthropist Director

About

Born and raised in Sinaloa, Mexico, Matilde holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication Sciences. She moved to California in 2001 and has worked in affordable housing development for over 18 years. Currently, she is the Senior Asset Manager at East LA Community Corporation. A dedicated volunteer with the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) since 2012, she has served in various leadership roles, including Chair of the JDRF One Walk Committee and mentor for Spanish-speaking families. She lives with her three daughters and two dogs.

Anderson Gobbi

Corporate Philanthropist

About

Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Anderson has worked at Microsoft for over 20 years as a Senior Business Program Manager and Proactive Services Global Strategy Lead. He joined Eyes of a Child in 2018.

Mauro Valencia

Chief Information Officer (CIO)

Cintia Ohanganian

Fundraising Specialist

Hercules Desouza

Operations Manager

About

Born and raised in Minas Gerais, Brazil, Hercules moved to California in 1992 and lives with his wife, Lourdes Souza (Board Committee member), and their children. He has worked at the John Stewart Company for over 15 years and has been a dedicated member of Eyes of a Child since 2008.

Nancy Lacerda

Corporate Philanthropist Director

About

Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, she now lives in Florida and works as a Realtor with a flexible schedule. Embracing this season of giving, she is dedicated to using her time, talents, and resources to serve others. She believes life is richer when shared and looks forward to making a meaningful impact together.

Mayra McMahan

Communication Director of Sponsorship Programs

Jovany Diaz

Capital Campaigns Director

Estefany Hernandez

El Salvador Project Director

About

Born in San Salvador, El Salvador, she moved to Los Angeles in 2011 and began working as a translator for LAUSD. After having her son in 2015, she pursued her passion by earning an Esthetician license and starting her own business. Her love for children and helping others led her to support Eyes of a Child through events and galas before fully joining the Ahuachapán, El Salvador Project. Grateful for the opportunity, she is dedicated to helping EOAC grow and reach more communities.