Our Staff

Meet Our Founder

Alijah R. McCray, BS, QMHP, QDDP, Clinical Counseling Intern, PSR-R

Founder & Executive Director

Alijah R. McCray is the Founder and Executive Director of The Life Center Community Development & Wellness Center, where he leads the organization's vision of empowering individuals, strengthening families, and transforming communities through compassionate care, behavioral health services, supportive housing, leadership development, and community outreach.

With a Bachelor of Science degree and extensive professional experience in behavioral health and human services, Alijah has dedicated his career to advocating for individuals facing mental health challenges, intellectual and developmental disabilities, housing instability, and other barriers to independence. As a Qualified Mental Health Professional (QMHP), Qualified Developmental Disabilities Professional (QDDP), Certified Psychiatric Rehabilitation Provider (PSR-R), and Clinical Counseling Intern pursuing licensure as a professional counselor, he combines clinical knowledge with practical experience to help individuals and families overcome challenges and build meaningful, purpose-filled lives.

In addition to his behavioral health background, Alijah serves as a pastor, community leader, and nonprofit executive with a passion for developing people spiritually, emotionally, and professionally. His leadership philosophy is rooted in the belief that lasting transformation occurs when individuals are supported holistically—addressing the needs of the mind, body, spirit, family, and community.

Under his leadership, The Life Center continues to expand innovative programs focused on behavioral health, supportive housing, workforce development, leadership training, youth and family services, community outreach, and holistic wellness.

Beyond his professional endeavors, Alijah is a devoted father to four children and, alongside his partner, Kayla Davis, is committed to building a loving, faith-centered home. He believes that service begins at home and extends outward to transform neighborhoods, cities, and future generations.

"To Reach. To Heal. To Restore. To Build. To Govern. To Make an Impact." This mission is more than a statement—it is the foundation of his life's work.

Angela D. McCray

Board Chair | Vice President | Director of Programs & Community Engagement

Angela D. McCray serves as the Board Chair, Vice President, and Director of Programs & Community Engagement for The Life Center Community Development & Wellness Center. She provides strategic leadership to the Board of Directors while overseeing the development and coordination of programs designed to strengthen individuals, families, and communities through compassionate service and meaningful engagement.

Angela brings a diverse background in leadership, administration, customer service, and ministry. She is a Licensed Cosmetologist in the State of Maryland and an ordained Licensed Minister who has faithfully served in ministry for many years. Alongside her late husband, Pastor Rodney D. McCray Sr., founder of Living For God's Kingdom Outreach Ministries, she helped build a ministry dedicated to serving both the church and the surrounding community. Today, she continues that legacy by supporting the ministry now led by her oldest child, Alijah R. McCray.

Professionally, Angela has more than five years of experience as a member of the Visual Merchandising and Store Design team at Nordstrom. She also brings extensive experience in medical billing, scheduling, administrative operations, and organizational management.

As a devoted mother of three, stepmother of six, and community leader, Angela is passionate about helping people discover hope, purpose, and opportunity.

Meet Our Director of Clinical Programs (Designate)

Dena Smith, BS, MS, MA, MFTC, LMFTA

Director of Clinical Programs (Designate)

Dena Smith serves as the Director of Clinical Programs (Designate) for TLC Cares, where she is leading the development of the organization's behavioral health programs, clinical policies, and trauma-informed service model. Upon obtaining her Virginia licensure, she will transition into the role of Clinical Director.

Dena holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Services, a Master of Science in Criminal Justice, and a Master of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy. She is also currently pursuing her Ph.D. As the founder and owner of Ase Healing Services, her private practice, Dena specializes in trauma recovery, healthy communication, relationship dynamics, and helping individuals, couples, and families navigate life's challenges through compassionate, evidence-based care.

Originally from a small town in Illinois, Dena has lived a nomadic lifestyle throughout much of her life. Her passion for learning and serving others has taken her to 19 countries and counting. As a devoted mother of two children, including a recent high school graduate, she brings together clinical excellence, cultural awareness, and authentic compassion.

"Healing begins with understanding, grows through connection, and flourishes in community."

Meet Our Residential Program Director

Kayla Davis, CNA

Residential Program Director

Kayla Davis serves as the Residential Program Director for TLC Cares, where she oversees the development, coordination, and daily operations of the organization's supportive housing programs. She is dedicated to creating safe, structured, and compassionate living environments that promote healing, stability, and long-term independence for every resident.

With more than ten years of experience as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA), Kayla brings extensive hands-on clinical expertise caring for adults with complex medical and behavioral health needs. She is certified in Dementia Care, has completed training as a Personal Care Assistant (PCA), and maintains certifications in CPR and First Aid.

As Residential Program Director, Kayla provides leadership for residential services by overseeing resident care, supporting and developing residential staff, implementing program standards, and fostering an environment where individuals are empowered to grow, develop life skills, and achieve greater independence.

A North Carolina native, Kayla is known for her compassionate spirit, servant's heart, and unwavering commitment to helping others. She is a devoted mother to her daughter and, alongside her partner, Alijah R. McCray, helps raise their four children.