Our People

Julia Violi

Director of Volunteers & Basic Needs Programs

Julia came to Bluffton Self Help after 15 years of Resort Food and Beverage Management, Catering Sales, and Event Management with a Bachelor’s Degree in Hospitality Management and Tourism from the University of Kentucky in 2003. In January 2018, her husband, Courtney, and she welcomed a daughter, Paisley Jane. After a year at home, she stepped back into the workforce to support our team as Office Coordinator. “I’m grateful that I have found such a wonderful organization to work for and have enjoyed seeing the positive impact BSH makes in our community every day.” In February 2020, Julia moved into the Program Manager role overseeing Food, Clothing, and Special Programs. In 2022, she was promoted to Director of Volunteers and Basic Needs Programs.

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Genesis Gonzalez

Director of Education Programs

In 2012, Genesis moved to South Carolina and quickly fell in love with the Lowcountry. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of South Carolina – Beaufort. That is where her experience in program coordinating began; creating associations/clubs, volunteer opportunities, and serving as a liaison between students and administration. Genesis is thrilled to be a part of Bluffton Self Help and the expansion of the education programs.

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Donna Roberts

Finance Director

Donna made the Lowcountry her home after relocating from Long Island, New York, where she earned her MBA in Corporate Finance. Taking on the slower pace of life in the south, she took a break from the finance world and spent 10 years with Cross Schools, teaching, project planning and developing systems. But she couldn’t stray too far from her roots and re-entered the accounting and finance field. For the last three years, she worked as Finance and HR Manager for Eastman Marine Construction, where she brought their company into the 21st century implementing operations and finance systems and process changes. Donna spends her free time enjoying the area beaches with her son and chasing her four rescue dogs. 

“I am excited to work at Bluffton Self Help because its more than a job. Being in finance, you tend to focus on the numbers and results but here, I have an opportunity to be part of an organization that is serving the greater good and giving back to the community!”

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Barbara Bowers

Senior Client Advocate

The Resource Hub

Barbara Bowers moved to Bluffton from the Northeast where she worked as a social worker for many years. Barbara was essential in opening our Education and Resource Center (ERC) in 2018. She is now the face of the ERC, has grown the programs and workshops offered to fit our neighbors’ needs. Many of our clients stop in just to see Barb and update her on their progress.

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Janet Simonds

Basic Needs Program Manager

Janet is new to Bluffton, but not new to management. Most recently she comes from Publix Supermarkets where she served customers with their legendary customer service for almost ten years. Prior to that, in her hometown of Chicago, she served in the not for profit sector by coordinating a senior nutrition program providing home delivered meals and community dining locations for older adults.

Janet is thrilled to be in Bluffton and even more fulfilled working with Bluffton Self Help. She is passionate about all aspects of food and culture. She enjoys cooking, especially Italian dishes, watching the Chicago Blackhawks and the Chicago Cubs, visiting the coast and historical sites and most of all being a “mom” to her three young men.

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Emery King

Basic Needs Programs & Volunteer Specialist

Emery joined Bluffton Self Help shortly after moving to South Carolina in 2022. Prior to moving, Emery had earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Social Sciences, and Humanities at Clarkson University, a Master of Arts in Clinical Psychology at the University of Hartford, and pursued further education at Widener University. Alongside academics, Emery gained experience in a wide variety of professional and internship positions including mental health work, car delivery, and pet care to name just a few. Now out of school, Emery’s free time is spent learning new skills such as Python coding, woodworking, and embroidery.

“I am so excited and proud to have the opportunity to apply my experience and versatility to this wonderful cause.”

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Carmen Bazaco

Center Coordinator

Hardeeville Learning & Literacy Center

Carmen was born and raised in Spain. She met her husband while he was studying abroad in Spain and moved to the US after earning her BA in Spanish. After living in different parts of the country, Carmen and her family settled in Bluffton in 2017. She enjoys cooking, gardening, and playing board games with her two daughters. “I am excited to be a part of the Learning and Literacy Center and to serve our growing community throughout the Lowcountry,” says Carmen.

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Taariq Camara

Marketing Manager

With a passion for all things marketing, design and a keen eye for innovation, Taariq is dedicated to propelling our brand to new heights. He brings over four years in the dynamic world of marketing and graphic design, having sharpened his skills at successful companies. His journey has been marked by consistent achievements and a commitment to staying at the forefront of industry trends. His mission as Marketing Manager is clear: he envisions Bluffton Self Help as a trailblazing force, reaching wider audiences and leaving a lasting impact. His strategic insights and creativity converge to chart a course for our brand’s continued success. He thrives in the digital realm, with proficiency in SEO, social media marketing, digital advertisement campaigns, UX Design, graphic design, and crafting compelling content strategies. Navigating the digital landscape is second nature to him. Every marketing initiative he undertakes is geared toward tangible, measurable results.