Daryl Kiesow-Director/Founder

Upon his arrival in December of 2005, Daryl knew he wanted to dedicate his life to rebuilding New Orleans. He worked as a volunteer for Hands On New Orleans for two years before starting the United Saints Recovery Project. His ten years of roofing and construction experience along with the first hand experience of the operations of Hands On New Orleans gave him the knowledge he needed to start the United Saints in September 2007. Since its first project in January of 2008, the United Saints Recovery Project has completed over 100 rehab projects.

Mitch Mandorin, Site Supervisor

Mitch is an AmeriCorps STATE. Before being coming a STATE, Mitch was a professional construction contractor in California for 30 years. He brings a general knowledge of all trades to the United Saints. Mitch is a key component for the United Saints in the infield operations. He serves as a site supervisor overseeing and training volunteers on site.

Sakura Kone'- Outreach/Public Relations

Sakura Kone, Outreach Coordinator - Borne of Creole heritage & raised in Louisiana, Sakura has a rich knowledge of the history andculture of New Orleans. After living in California for 28 years, he relocated to New Orleans rightafter hurricane Katrina, as a volunteer organizer with several grassroots organizations involved in providing assistance, relief and advocacy on behalf of disenfranchised residents.

Before joining the United Saints staff, Sakura was involved in the campaign to save, restore and transform the historic 140 year old former Wesley United Methodist Church into a multipurpose community center, located in the heart of Central City. He has contributed to the United Saints since 2009 working on various projects and giving social justice community tours of the city to our volunteers.

Tim Gear, Operations Manager – Tim oversees the United Saints general operations and is in charge of the accounting. Like Daryl, Tim came to New Orleans as a volunteer for Hands On New Orleans. He worked with Hands On New Orleans for 4 years before joining the staff of the United Saints. Tim has 8 years of experience working with non-profit organizations.

Thomas Shields-Awesome Intern

Thomas Shields- Intern – Thomas has taken a year off of school to intern with the United Saints Recovery Project. He brings much excitement and energy and support to the United Saints. He hopes to be able to help the people of New Orleans and learn the trades and about nonprofit management through his year internship with us!