Who We Are
SHANDRA BARAHONA
SHANDRA BARAHONA
SHANDRA BARAHONA
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Shandra Barahona leads Empower as its Executive Director and has deep roots in Camp Comanche, having first joined the program as a young camper.
With a B.S. in Social Work from Nyack College and an M.P.S. in Urban Ministry from Alliance Theological Seminary, she has spent years serving children, youth, young adults, and
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Shandra Barahona leads Empower as its Executive Director and has deep roots in Camp Comanche, having first joined the program as a young camper.
With a B.S. in Social Work from Nyack College and an M.P.S. in Urban Ministry from Alliance Theological Seminary, she has spent years serving children, youth, young adults, and families across marginalized communities. Before stepping into full-time ministry at Camp Comanche, Shandra served as the Executive Director of St. Paul’s House in New York City, guiding community programs, outreach initiatives, and food distribution efforts with compassion and purpose.
Shandra’s heart is to walk with young people as they navigate real challenges, helping them discover hope, identity, and confidence in Christ. She remains committed to building relational, spiritually formative environments where every person can grow, thrive, and know they are deeply loved.
CARLOS BARAHONA
SHANDRA BARAHONA
SHANDRA BARAHONA
WORSHIP DIRECTOR
Carlos Barahona serves as the Worship Director for Camp Comanche, bringing original songs and heartfelt worship that uplift campers and staff throughout the year.
Originally from Houston, Texas, Carlos moved to New York City in 2008 to serve children, youth, and families through mentorship, leadership development, and Chri
WORSHIP DIRECTOR
Carlos Barahona serves as the Worship Director for Camp Comanche, bringing original songs and heartfelt worship that uplift campers and staff throughout the year.
Originally from Houston, Texas, Carlos moved to New York City in 2008 to serve children, youth, and families through mentorship, leadership development, and Christ-centered community care. His background in Criminal Psychology and Strategic Intelligence from Liberty University, along with his graduate studies in Clinical Mental Health Counseling at Messiah College, shape the compassionate and thoughtful way he leads others.
Carlos is passionate about creating spaces where young people feel safe, seen, and supported. Whether through music, encouragement, or relational presence, he strives to help each person experience the love and hope of Jesus in practical, life-giving ways.
CAMILLE GUMBS
SHANDRA BARAHONA
CAMILLE GUMBS
PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Camille Gumbs serves as the Program Director of Camp Comanche, bringing both a rich educational background and a deep passion for discipling young people. She holds a B.A. in Early Childhood Education and a M.A. in Special Education, experience that allows her to create safe, structured, and welcoming environments where ch
PROGRAM DIRECTOR
Camille Gumbs serves as the Program Director of Camp Comanche, bringing both a rich educational background and a deep passion for discipling young people. She holds a B.A. in Early Childhood Education and a M.A. in Special Education, experience that allows her to create safe, structured, and welcoming environments where children and youth can thrive. Whether she’s leading Friday night gatherings, supporting retreats, mentoring staff, or caring for her son Calvin, Camille is known for her gentle spirit and steady encouragement.
Rooted in her love for God’s Word, Camille is committed to empowering the next generation to trust God in every circumstance and grow toward their full potential in Christ. She plays a key role in developing and facilitating Camp Comanche’s year-round programs and is eager to build meaningful connections with the local community alongside Calvin. Her background in supporting diverse learners, including advanced, struggling, and special-needs students, helps her bring creativity, wisdom, and compassion into every space she leads.