Our Board of Directors

Nelida Machicote

President

Nelida Machicote has served on the Board of Net of Compassion, Corp. for over 15 years, demonstrating a longstanding commitment to serving individuals and families in the Worcester community. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Science from Worcester State University and a Master of Social Work from Springfield College, where she was also a member of the Honor Society. Nelida is a Licensed Certified Social Worker (LCSW) and a Licensed Alcohol and Drug Counselor I (LADC1) in Massachusetts.

With more than 20 years of experience in social work, behavioral health, community service, and leadership, Nelida has dedicated much of her life to empowering individuals and strengthening communities. She is also a published author of “The Importance of Allowing for Spirituality in Clinical Strategies,” reflecting her commitment to recognizing the role that spirituality can play in supporting individuals’ healing, resilience, and overall well-being.

From 1993 to 2005, Nelida led a homeless outreach ministry in Framingham, Massachusetts, an experience that helped shape her enduring passion for serving individuals experiencing homelessness and other life challenges.

Nelida’s commitment to service extends beyond Net of Compassion. She currently serves as the acting Treasurer of New Life Worship Center in Worcester, Massachusetts, where she continues to contribute her leadership, faith, and commitment to community service.

Throughout her professional and community work, Nelida has remained passionate about helping people overcome barriers, discover their strengths, and move toward greater stability and hope. Her family, faith, and commitment to serving others continue to inspire her work and leadership.

Miriam Damaris Collazo

Member

Miriam Damaris holds an Associate in Audiovisual Communications, a Bachelor's in Elementary Education with a minor in Special Education from the University of Puerto Rico in Humacao, and a Master's in Counseling Psychology from Framingham State University. She is a US Army retired veteran with over 20 years of experience mentoring, guiding, counseling, coaching, and assisting with life transitions for both Soldiers and now, civilians. Miriam Damaris is a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and a volunteer in her home church, New Life Worship Center in Worcester, MA. Her dedication lies in making a positive impact within the community and fostering an environment conducive to growth and healing, employing a collaborative approach to empower individuals to lead lives filled with purpose.

MA Elizabeth

Member

A native of Worcester, MA, Elizabeth holds a bachelors in communications from Worcester State University and has also authored a children’s book. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, singing, writing and spending time with her family. As a woman of faith, a devoted wife and proud mother of four, she stays grounded in purpose, guided by her sense of service and driven by a passion for helping others thrive. She currently works as a financial advisor and is an active member of New Life Worship Center in Worcester, MA.

---

Michael Binder

Member

As a visual communications designer, he was [correctly] labeled a "ruinous empath" by corporate management systems. Now, as a recent transplant to the Worcester area via Durham, Zurich, and Managua; he has put down roots and is passionate about serving our local community. 

Charles Parrilla

Member

Charlie was born in New York City and later relocated to Puerto Rico where he graduated from the University of Rio Piedras Puerto Rico in Business Administration. Charlie served in the United States Marine Corps for a term of four years. After that he arrived in Worcester County to work for a Financial Service Company and several mortgage companies. In 2004 Charlie decided to seek a new beginning in the real estate industry to help the community achieve the American dream and own their own home.

---

Richie Gonzalez

Director

Founder and Executive Director, Richie Gonzalez was ordained a Minister-Pastor in 2014. He was presented with The Key of The City in 2017. He also serves on the Board at Latin American Health Alliance and is a member of The Central Massachusetts Opioid Task Force. Richie also works in collaboration with the City of Worcester’s Quality of Life Team and with Judge Tim Bibaud from Dudley District Court. In 2018, Richie joined the Housing First Coordinating Council, part of the City Manager’s Homeless Task Force.

Elizabeth Gonzalez

Director

Elizabeth is the Assistant Executive Director of Net of Compassion. She works tirelessly to help make Net of Compassion a success. She directly supervises the day-to-day operations of the organization and solves the ongoing challenges of running a growing nonprofit organization.

DONATE

Net of Compassion’s work is fueled by the generosity of donors. Contributions of all sizes make a difference. Please consider making a donation today.