EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Nicole Escobar first joined the Trees of Hope team in 2014. After serving the organization in various capacities, Nicole was named Director of Trees of Hope in early 2019. She has over 15 years of managerial experience in the nonprofit sector. Her past career and volunteer experience include sales, marketing, writing, editing, publishing, event & facility management, and domestic & international humanitarian work.

As a dedicated survivor and a devoted mother, she is deeply committed to educating others about practical strategies for preventing sexual abuse and fostering effective healing processes for those affected. To accomplish her mission, she has conducted hundreds of interactive workshops focused on sexual abuse prevention, where she teaches participants vital skills and knowledge to help safeguard themselves and their communities. In addition, she has authored a variety of informative resources aimed at prevention, providing valuable insights and guidance for individuals and families.

Understanding the importance of support, she has also organized numerous healing groups that offer a safe space for victims to share their experiences and embark on their healing journeys together. Furthermore, she hosts a powerful podcast titled “Not Just a Hashtag,” where she engages in meaningful conversations about sexual abuse, amplifies the voices of survivors, and raises awareness about the ongoing issues surrounding this critical topic.

Through her dedicated efforts, she aims to foster a society where children can grow up in a safe environment, free from harm and fear. At the same time, she empowers parents with the knowledge and resources they need to effectively safeguard their children, ensuring that families feel equipped and confident in their ability to protect their loved ones.

REGIONAL DIRECTOR - SOUTH FLORIDA

Sue is the Regional Director for South Florida and has been a vital member of the Trees of Hope family for more than twelve years. Her personal healing journey has deeply influenced her career, igniting a passionate desire to support and guide others as they navigate their own journeys to recovery.

Over the years, Sue has played a crucial role in mentoring countless women who have participated in our programs. She fosters a trusting and nurturing environment, enabling these women to feel comfortable turning to her not only during their time in the program but also in the years that follow. Her compassionate approach has helped build enduring relationships that extend beyond the initial healing process.

In addition to her mentoring role, Sue has been instrumental in the development and introduction of many innovative activities that we currently implement in our in-person healing groups at Trees of Hope. Her contributions have enriched our programs, creating a supportive and engaging atmosphere that promotes healing and personal growth for all participants.

REGIONAL DIRECTOR - CENTRAL FLORIDA

In 2011, Marie began her healing journey after discovering triggering information on a friend's laptop, which led her to confront repressed memories from her past. Seeking support, she started counseling and joined a Shelter Group, where she connected with others who shared similar experiences.

Now serving as the Regional Director in Central Florida, Marie leads various groups and fellowship events for trauma survivors. She is passionate about encouraging women to surrender their pain to God and to have faith as they await His guidance.

In her personal life, Marie enjoys spending time outdoors with her dogs, and hosts burn parties to symbolically let go of her past. As a wife, mother of five, and grandmother of twelve, she balances family life while pursuing a degree in forensic psychology, aiming to deepen her understanding of trauma and assist others in their healing journeys.

REGIONAL DIRECTOR - MELBOURNE

Deb Marsalisi is a dedicated author, public speaker, and podcast host who focuses on helping others heal from past traumas. Through her writing, she has found a meaningful way to express herself and gain new perspectives on life.

As a survivor of sexual abuse, Deb passionately advocates for prevention and education around this issue, serving as a source of hope for others with similar experiences. She mentors young women, sharing emotional and spiritual practices that have transformed her life.

In her personal time, Deb enjoys cooking for her loved ones, believing that sharing meals fosters connection and nurtures relationships. Deb aims to inspire and empower others on their healing journeys through her work and personal passions.

REGIONAL DIRECTOR - NEW ZEALAND

Nicky Sylvester is thrilled to bring Trees of Hope to New Zealand, a ministry that holds a special place in her heart. As a survivor of sexual abuse, she found healing and empowerment through Shelter Online. Through her healing journey, Nicky has discovered the power of letting go of shame and secrets that were never hers to carry. She has seen firsthand the transformative healing power of Jesus and the incredible support of those who walk alongside her.

Every woman has a story filled with good and bad experiences, and Nicky is passionate about helping others find healing and freedom from their traumas. While the healing journey may be difficult, she believes it is worth it. Nicky has witnessed the Lord's miraculous work in her heart and mind, and she is eager to see many more women undergo the same transformation by introducing Shelter Group to New Zealand. This region is in great need of this kind of ministry and healing.

Nicky wants to encourage anyone struggling to hold onto hope and trust that healing is possible. She believes there is beauty in letting go of pain and embracing a future filled with freedom and joy. Together, they can overcome obstacles and walk boldly into a brighter tomorrow. Nicky aspires for everyone to be beacons of hope and inspiration for those needing healing.

Regional Director - North Carolina

As a teenager, Lisa endured mental, physical, and sexual abuse from her father throughout middle and high school. As a junior, she bravely attempted to expose the truth but was dismissed as a liar and deemed "crazy." She felt compelled to hide her reality to maintain her family connection.

It wasn't until she turned 52 that the Lord led her to Trees of Hope, where she began to heal from the wounds she had kept hidden for so long. Completing the Shelter Group opened the door to ongoing trauma therapy at the Hope Christian Counseling Center. After a year and a half of dedicated work, Lisa came to understand that she was forgiven and had released the shame she carried from the abuse. She has chosen to forgive her father for the harm he inflicted upon her.

Lisa is profoundly grateful for the healing journey the Lord has guided her through. She is reclaiming her life and stepping into God's calling by helping other women find freedom. Initially, she thought Trees of Hope was only for Florida, but when she reached out to Nicole, she was encouraged to start a group wherever she was willing. Now, Lisa is ready to see how the Lord will use her story to lead others to the healing she had once waited for.