Justin Porter

Chief of Compliance & Internal Operations

Justin Porter serves as the Director of Compliance & Recovery Services for Desert O.A.S.I.S., overseeing organizational compliance, governance, policy development, and regulatory oversight. He is responsible for developing and reviewing policies, bylaws, and organizational procedures to ensure the organization operates in accordance with applicable regulations, best practices, and its mission.

Justin works closely with the executive leadership team to strengthen accountability, manage compliance requirements, and support sound organizational governance. His focus on policy, risk management, and organizational integrity helps build a strong foundation for the continued growth and success of Desert O.A.S.I.S.

Gabriela Chavira 

Chief of Health & Wellness Programs

BSN, RN

Gabriela Chavira serves as the Director of Health & Wellness for Desert O.A.S.I.S., where she leads health education, wellness programming, community health partnerships, and client health navigation services. As a Registered Nurse with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, she is committed to helping individuals access the resources, education, and support needed to improve their overall health and well-being.

Gabriela works to develop programs that promote healthy lifestyles, increase access to care, and support individuals as they navigate recovery, reentry, and life transitions. Her focus is on creating pathways to wellness that empower individuals and families to achieve long-term stability and improved quality of life.

Through collaboration, education, and community partnerships, Gabriela helps ensure Desert O.A.S.I.S. provides holistic support that addresses the health and wellness needs of those it serves. 

Manuel Vargas

Certified Peer Support Worker (CPSW)

Employment Navigator

Manuel Vargas serves as a Certified Peer Support Worker (CPSW) at Desert O.A.S.I.S. Reentry, where we celebrate his lived experience and embrace his expertise. His journey through life's challenges transformed his outlook, strengthened his faith, and inspired a passion for helping others discover hope and purpose. Today, Manuel walks alongside each collaborator, serving as a bridge to resources, advocating through complex systems, and providing compassionate peer support rooted in understanding and respect.

Committed to lifelong learning, Manuel is currently pursuing his Bachelor of Social Work at Western New Mexico University and is expected to graduate in December 2027, further expanding his ability to serve individuals and families in rural communities.

His personal motto is:

"With God, everything is possible. All it takes is the courage to take the first step. You're never meant to walk the journey alone."

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Juan J. Garcia "J.J"

Reentry Residence Lead

Employment Navigator

Juan J. Garcia is a lifelong resident of Las Cruces, New Mexico, with more than 25 years of experience in behavioral health, corrections, workforce development, disability services, and business leadership. He is recognized for his strong leadership, advocacy, and commitment to helping individuals build successful, independent lives.

Juan began his career at age 19 as a Corrections Officer III with the New Mexico Corrections System, serving in multiple correctional settings, including Death Row operations. He has also worked in residential treatment, supported at-risk youth, served as a Treatment Foster Care parent, and helped individuals overcome barriers to employment and independence.

Throughout his career, Juan has worked with HELP New Mexico, Tresco, Inc., and Manpower, where he assisted individuals in obtaining employment, developing job skills, and achieving long-term self-sufficiency. As Desert Oasis' Reentry Residence Lead and Employment Navigator, he is dedicated to creating a safe, structured environment while helping participants secure meaningful employment and successfully transition back into the community.

Personal Motto:

"Success is built one opportunity, one choice, and one day at a time."

Dr. Meya Mongkuo

(Ph.D., PMH-C)

Grants Development Manager

Dr. Meya Mongkuo (Ph.D., PMH-C) is a provisionally licensed psychologist who will serve Desert O.A.S.I.S. as the Grants Development Manager.  She is honored to assist people to have comprehensive, trauma-informed care that truly embraces people as they are and supports them in becoming who they want to be.  She has helped to secure over $1.7 million in funding for primary care, behavioral health, childhood education, and senior care funding in New Mexico and hopes to bring her service to Desert O.A.S.I.S. to best serve our clients. 

Personal Motto/ Quote: 

Kira Vaughns

Board President

Kira Vaughns serves as Board President for Desert O.A.S.I.S., bringing lived experience, peer support leadership, and a deep commitment to helping others navigate recovery and reentry.

Kira began her journey as a Peer Educator with UNM Project ECHO while incarcerated in 2013, using her experiences to support and encourage others. Following her release, she continued serving as a Community Peer Educator and later advanced to Senior Community Peer Educator before joining Project ECHO as a Program Specialist.

Through her work and personal journey, Kira understands the challenges of rebuilding a life after incarceration and is passionate about creating opportunities, support, and hope for individuals working toward lasting change.

Justin Porter

Interim Treasurer

Justin Porter serves as Interim Treasurer for the Desert O.A.S.I.S. Board of Directors, providing oversight and support for the organization's financial stewardship and accountability. In addition to his role on the Board, he serves as Chief Compliance Officer, helping guide organizational governance, policy development, and compliance efforts. His commitment to transparency, accountability, and strong organizational practices helps support the long-term sustainability of Desert O.A.S.I.S.

Praxedis  Salinas "Prax"

Board Secretary

Prax Salinas is the kind of person who lights up a room the moment he walks in — resilient, compassionate, assertive, and blessed with a wit so sharp. A proud El Pasoan, Prax co-founded Golden Goffers, a nonprofit organization dedicated to making life easier and more dignified for his fellow citizens. Whether it’s driving elderly neighbors to critical medical appointments, helping them get groceries, or simply being a reliable set of wheels and a friendly face when they need it most, Prax and his team turn compassion into action — one ride at a time. His work is a beautiful reminder that sometimes the most meaningful help is simply showing up. Beyond his community impact, Prax is a beloved mentor and guiding light for his nieces and nephews. With patience, encouragement, and real-world wisdom, he has helped guide them toward impressive achievements — from earning a Master of Science in Information Technology and an MBA to becoming a Registered Nurse. .When he’s not changing lives at home, Prax is an adventurous soul and a passionate food connoisseur. 

Ashley Ogilvie

Board Member

Ashley Ogilvie serves as a Board Member for Desert O.A.S.I.S., bringing a strong commitment to public service, community engagement, and helping individuals overcome barriers to success.

 Ashley currently serves as a Special Programs Director with the District Attorney's Office, where she works to develop and support initiatives that strengthen communities, improve public safety, and connect individuals with resources and opportunities for positive change. Through this work, she has gained valuable insight into the challenges many people face and the importance of collaborative, community-based solutions.

Passionate about making a meaningful difference, Ashley is dedicated to supporting programs that empower individuals, promote personal growth, and create pathways toward stability and self-sufficiency. As a member of the Desert O.A.S.I.S. Board, she is committed to advancing the organization's mission and helping build a stronger, more supportive community for those seeking a fresh start.