Honoring the Leaders Who Helped Shape Set Free Monterey Bay
Reflecting on a Season of Board Transitions with Gratitude and Hope
Over the past year, Set Free Monterey Bay has been blessed by the dedication and leadership of a board that has faithfully guided our mission forward. As we step into a new season, we pause to honor five incredible individuals who transitioned off the board in the past year. Each one brought unique strengths, insight, and heart to this work—and their impact continues to echo through every life touched by this mission.
Justin Noseworthy (Board Member, 2021–2024)
Founding Pastor at All Things New Church, Monterey
Justin’s pastoral voice helped guide SFMB through challenging seasons with clarity and compassion. He modeled what it means to steward God's calling with integrity, consistently reminding the team to stay grounded in faith and service. Whether offering strategic wisdom behind the scenes or emceeing our largest events of the year, Justin led with humility and joy. His investment in this mission continues as an ongoing ambassador—always ready to lift up the call to end modern-day slavery.
Becca Upjohn (Board Member, 2022–2024)
Ph.D. in Ecology, Science Educator at Stevenson School
Becca brought a fresh and thoughtful perspective to SFMB’s work through her background in science and education. She leveraged her professional and community networks to open new doors of opportunity for partnership and support. Becca volunteered consistently at events, participated in strategic planning, and supported our marketing and grant work. She reminded us often that fighting trafficking isn’t just about intervention—it’s about creating a more just and restored world in every arena.
Molly Lorenzi (Board Member, 2022–2024)
Attorney, HR Consultant, and Nonprofit Advisor
Molly’s impact on SFMB will be felt for years to come. Her legal and HR expertise helped lay a solid foundation for trauma-informed, ethically-run operations. She chaired our strategic planning committee, supported early grant development, and helped implement key policies that strengthened our internal culture and external effectiveness. Molly’s ability to lead with both professionalism and heart helped SFMB grow with stability and vision.
Jim Swallow (Board Member, 2024–2025)
Real Estate Broker, Rotary Leader, and Global Business Consultant
In his year of service, Jim made meaningful connections that helped SFMB expand its presence across the peninsula. Through his Rotary and Chamber of Commerce involvement, he opened doors to new grants, relationships, and strategic conversations. A generous donor and trusted voice in the community, Jim brought wisdom, insight, and a quiet confidence that anchored many important decisions. His service reflects a deep belief in using one’s life and skills for lasting community impact.
Dr. Matthew Ronconi (Board Member, 2020–2025)
Orthodontist, Donor, and Defender of Freedom
Matthew’s leadership has left a legacy that will never be forgotten. As a donor and connector, he played a key role in every major fundraising event SFMB has held—and even more importantly, he made it possible for our first safe house to open in Carmel Valley. His story was honored at our 2024 Fall Gala, where we shared how his bold “yes” to God’s call helped turn our dream of survivor restoration into reality. Matthew has modeled what it means to serve with purpose, compassion, and fierce advocacy. He is a true defender of freedom.
Looking Ahead
As we say thank you to these five outstanding leaders, we also celebrate the new board members stepping in to carry the mission forward. Each season brings new faces, fresh vision, and the same unwavering commitment to ending exploitation and restoring hope.
To every board member—past, present, and future—thank you.
Your faith, time, and love have built something that will outlast us all.
– The Set Free Monterey Bay Team