Our People

Alvertis is a Seattle native raised in the Central District who obtained his undergraduate degree from Seattle University, majoring in Accounting and Finance. Following his passion for education and athletics, he pursued a Master’s in Intercollegiate Athletic Leadership at the University of Washington School of Education. Currently, Alvertis is furthering his educational journey as a candidate for a Doctorate in Education at the University of Washington’s Leadership for Learning program.

With a background in auditing for regional and national organizations, Alvertis made a significant career shift to the field of education. Over the past 15 years, he has held various roles in educational institutions, including Intervention Counselor at Franklin High School and Broadview Thomson, Director of Middle School Athletics at University Prep, and Director of Community Development at Rainier Valley Leadership Academy. Additionally, Alvertis served as the Assistant Director of Athletics for Seattle Public Schools (SPS), where he contributed to the development and management of athletic programs across the district.

Driven by his passion for equity and inclusivity in education, Alvertis has actively served on advisory boards focused on creating culturally responsive spaces for students and families of color. He is currently a board member for Seattle United, contributing his governance expertise, and the Rainier Valley Community Development Fund, where he serves on the Executive Committee as Treasurer. These board positions have given him valuable opportunities to connect youth and families with the educational and community experiences they desire.

Alvertis is a dedicated father and Founder of Learn With Us Now (LWUN), supporting families and organizations in navigating education for equitable futures. LWUN offers resources, workshops, and mentorship programs to empower individuals and collaborate closely with families and organizations, ensuring well-informed decisions and improved educational outcomes.

Bob Luciano, Executive Director: Bob Luciano is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in the fields of business and finance. Born and raised in Dedham, Massachusetts, Bob’s passion for economics led him to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Economics from Seattle University.

With an impressive career spanning over 26 years in business and middle market banking, Bob has honed his skills in financial analysis, risk management, and strategic planning. His expertise has made him a trusted advisor to numerous businesses, providing tailored financial solutions to support their growth and success.

In addition to his work in banking, Bob has made significant contributions to the non-profit sector. With six years of experience in nonprofit lending and economic development, he has played a crucial role in empowering underserved communities and fostering economic opportunities. Bob’s dedication to giving back extends beyond his professional endeavors, as he actively serves on non-profit boards, working towards creating a positive impact in the community.

When not immersed in his professional pursuits, Bob finds joy in spending quality time with his family. He cherishes the moments he gets to share with his loved ones, creating lasting memories and building strong connections.
Driven by his passion for finance, commitment to community development, and devotion to his family, Bob Luciano exemplifies a well-rounded professional with a heart for making a difference.”

Andrea Sherwood, Portfolio Manager: Andrea Sherwood is a finance professional with extensive experience in non-profit small business lending. With a career spanning over twenty years, she has made significant contributions to the field, displaying a deep understanding of the intricacies of small business financing. As a prior co-founder of a successful non-profit, she empathizes with entrepreneurs and the struggles they go through getting their ventures off the ground and cultivating their growth. Andrea transitioned out of SBA financing and now serves as a valued member of the Rainier Valley Community Development Fund.

Throughout her career, Andrea has showcased her expertise in navigating complex lending processes and assisting entrepreneurs in securing the necessary resources to achieve their business goals. Her dedication to fostering economic growth and supporting local communities has earned her a reputation for being a reliable and trusted advisor. Her passion for empowering underserved neighborhoods and promoting economic equity continues to drive her commitment to the Rainier Valley Community Development Fund’s mission.

Andrea is a proud graduate of Western Washington University, with a degree in Secondary Education and US History. She is a Renton resident, and when not at work, enjoys reading, container gardening, antiquing and planning her next family travel adventure.

After graduating from WSU with a BA degree – College of Business – Finance, Robert began his career in the banking and financial services industry in 1979. Prior to joining Rainier Valley Community Development Fund  Robert worked as a Director of CRA Loans & Investment Manager at Union Bank where he led the enterprise wide  strategy to provide growth capital to middle market companies that create meaningful jobs and wealth building in underserved communities around the country.  

His professional background includes building relationships and the trust of his clients by developing customized strategies to assist with obtaining their goals, dreams and aspirations. Robert has spent much of his career working with Non -profit organizations and corporate sponsors to provide scholarships to the underserved to obtain higher education. 

Robert is a past Trustee of Seattle Colleges, and served as past Board Chair for Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle, Trustee for Washington State University Foundation Advisory Council Member – Washington State University Everett and former Board Member of the Woodland Park Zoological Society. 

Robert a Seattle native resides on in West Seattle. When he is not at work, he enjoys spending time with

Cheryl Harmon is a seasoned professional with a strong background in business operations. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in International Business with a minor in Non-Profit Management and has furthered her education with an MBA in Global Business.

With nearly three decades of experience in the non-profit sector, Cheryl has focused on creating opportunities for vulnerable populations, particularly refugee and migrant children. Her work has taken her to various regions, including Uganda, Haiti, and Jordan, where she has played a key role in establishing partnerships and K-12 educational initiatives.

Cheryl’s commitment to community service extends beyond her professional role. She has spent many rewarding years volunteering and coordinating youth programs, emphasizing the importance of giving back and empowering the next generation.

Originally from Massachusetts, Cheryl now resides on Bainbridge Island where she spends many hours hiking, caring for her Roses and walking on the beach.  Her most important role?  As Nana, playing with her Grandchildren, the most amazing and wonderful creatures on Earth. Our family’s dedication to humanitarian causes and youth development reflects our genuine passion for creating positive change.