Meet the Heart Behind the Mission
At Camino Rising, our team comprises dedicated individuals who bring their diverse backgrounds, deep compassion, and unwavering commitment to healing hearts and restoring lives. Together, we embody the values of justice, faith, and community—serving purposefully and leading with love.
Rev. Gilbert (he, him, él) is a proud multi-generational Tejano and Chicano whose faith journey brought him from South Texas to Chicagoland in 2015. A graduate of Garrett-Evangelical Theological Seminary, he now serves as Pastor of Christ Church UCC in Des Plaines and is the founder of Camino Rising. Known for bridging cultures and communities, Gilbert is a passionate advocate for mental health, immigrant justice, and LGBTQ+ inclusion. Whether in the pulpit, streets, or around the table with his family, he leads with heart, heritage, and hope. He is ordained in the United Church of Christ, Illinois Conference.
Helayne Levin brings more than a decade of experience in church administration, community engagement, and nonprofit leadership. Her career has been rooted in building strong relationships, supporting community needs, and fostering ministries that make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. A lifelong volunteer and advocate for social justice, Helayne has served with organizations focused on hunger relief, education, youth development, and community outreach. She is passionate about connecting people with resources, creating welcoming spaces, and helping neighbors feel seen, heard, and supported. As Outreach Coordinator for Camino Rising, Helayne is committed to advancing the organization’s mission of providing compassionate support, practical assistance, and pathways to hope for individuals and families in our community.
Judy (she, her) is a lifelong Des Plaines resident who dedicated her career to serving the community as a speech-language pathologist and English language educator for both high school students and adults. Deeply committed to civic life, Judy has volunteered with numerous local organizations, served on community boards, and offered her gifts in various leadership roles at Christ Church UCC in Des Plaines.
Mandy (she, her) has a long-standing commitment to volunteerism and community outreach that began in high school. She enjoys supporting efforts that strengthen the community and reflect Camino Rising’s mission of care and compassion. Mandy is also a dedicated member of Christ Church UCC in Des Plaines. Outside of volunteering, she loves traveling with her husband, spending time with their cat, reading suspense novels, listening to music, and cheering on the Chicago Cubs.
