IRC Executive Staff and Board of Directors
“The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
Mahatma Gandhi
Passion Led Us Here
The IRC leadership team and boards work to ensure that the programs and services provided to domestic violence survivors are of the highest quality and enable survivors to start to lead lives that are free from violence and abuse.
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The team and the boards are integral to IRC's stellar reputation in Chicago, Illinois and nationally.
Executive Staff
Remona Sanders
President & CEO
Remona is a Licensed Social Worker with a wealth of experience in aiding and families affected by community and intimate partner violence. As the Founder and Executive Director of Inellas Restoration Center, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, she is committed to fostering hope, healing, and for those impacted by violence. With over 25 years of expertise in leadership, advocacy, program development, and training, Remona is trained in trauma-informed care and practices. She is dedicated to empowering communities, nurturing future leaders, and establishing safe, supportive environments that encourage healing and long-term restoration.
Media Inquiries
IRC is proud to shine a light on the reality of domestic abuse and how we can fight it.
Call: 331-979-1542
Maredeth Teamer
Associate Executive Director
Oswego Community Unit School District
Maredeth Teamer is the Associate Executive Director of Inellas Restoration Center, focused on empowering individuals and supporting survivors through advocacy, education, and restorative services. With over 20 years in education and social services, she helps individuals and families overcome challenges and achieve healing and growth. Maredeth's empathetic leadership fosters resilience and success for survivors, while advocating for change in underserved communities and enhancing organizational impact through education and outreach.
Board of Directors
Shakira Slaughter
Advisory Board Chair
CEO, Executive Director, Safe Ties LLC
Shakira Slaughter is the Chair of the Advisory Board for Inellas Restoration Center, offering strategic guidance to support its mission of restoring and empowering individuals affected by trauma. With over a decade of experience in public service and advocacy, she worked with government agencies and community organizations on safety, wellness, and equitable resource access, emphasizing service and collaboration for community growth.
Iman Griffith
Associate Board Member
National Associatian Board of Pharmacy
Iman Griffin is a paralegal and community advocate with a passion for supporting and uplifting underserved communities. She is especially passionate about disability advocacy, education, and creating inclusive spaces for children and families. Through her role on the board, Iman is committed to helping further the organization’s mission and making a positive impact within the community.
Rashida Hughes
Associate Board Member
South Suburban Pads Volunteer Manager
Rashida Hughes, a 20-year domestic violence survivor, leads S.H.E. Ministry at Proclaim Church in Bolingbrook IL, providing a healing space for women. As Shelter Operations Manager for South Suburban PADS, she supports families in need with meals and care, inspiring others through her journey. Similarly, Remona, a Licensed Social Worker and Founder of Inellas Center, has over 25 years of experience aiding families affected by violence, focusing on healing and community empowerment.
Kinya McDowell Mother, Survivor, Community Advocate I am a devoted mother and survivor, using my experiences to support others.coming abuse has inspired me to create safe environments for families. As a senior UX Research leader, I enhance systems and foster meaningful experiences. I also mentor researchers and serve on Inella’s Restoration Center board, dedicated to uplifting trauma survivors.
Kinya McDowell
Associate Board Member
User Experience Research Leader
Claudia Castro
Associate Board Member
Illinois State Attorney Assistant
Claudia Castro is an state's attorney in the Child Protection Unit at the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office. She has experience in nonprofits and law firms, specializing in school law. Claudia began her legal career at CCSAO and served as General Counsel for the Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault. She holds degrees from Loyola University and The Thomas M. Cooley Law School and enjoys volunteering and spending time with family.