Meet Your Executive Director And Founder
Delicia Ennis
Delicia Ennis was born and raised in Washington, DC, where she was nurtured by two loving parents who instilled in her the values of compassion, service, and community. From an early age, she witnessed the importance of lending a helping hand and supporting others through faith, outreach, and meaningful action. Inspired by her family’s dedication to serving through church and community resources, Delicia developed a lifelong passion for uplifting those in need.
With a strong background in community service, Delicia has consistently devoted herself to helping individuals who are less fortunate or who may not have the ability to advocate for themselves. In the early 2000s, she began opening her home in Crownsville, Maryland to individuals facing housing instability, offering a safe and supportive environment to those needing temporary shelter while they worked toward rebuilding their lives. Her willingness to open her doors reflected her deep belief in dignity, compassion, and second chances.
Guided by prayer, extensive research, and an unwavering determination to create real change, Delicia founded VALVET, an organization dedicated to assisting individuals recently released from incarceration as they re-enter everyday society, as well as disabled veterans who face challenges securing stable housing. Delicia specializes in supporting justice-involved individuals who are seeking a fresh start but face significant barriers to securing housing, employment, and stability. Understanding that safe housing is often the foundation for successful reintegration, she works closely with individuals to help them navigate housing applications, overcome rental barriers, access resources, and rebuild confidence as they transition back into their communities.
Her approach combines advocacy, mentorship, and practical support, recognizing that many individuals leaving incarceration encounter stigma, limited resources, and systemic challenges that make rebuilding difficult. Through VALVET, Delicia strives to provide not just housing solutions, but also a pathway toward independence, self-sufficiency, and long-term success.
Delicia’s vision extends far beyond immediate assistance. She dreams of creating affordable housing opportunities accessible to all, empowering individuals and families to achieve the dream of homeownership and live free from uncertainty and displacement. Her work reflects a profound commitment to community, resilience, and the belief that everyone deserves a safe place to call home
Meet Our Team
Linda Sweanigen - Head of veteran affairs
Linda Sweanigen - Head of veteran affairs
Linda Sweanigen - Head of veteran affairs
Linda Swearnigen is a proud United States Navy veteran who has dedicated much of her life to serving her country with honor, discipline, and commitment. Through her military service, she developed strong leadership skills, resilience, and a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by service members and veterans.
Driven by a cont
Linda Swearnigen is a proud United States Navy veteran who has dedicated much of her life to serving her country with honor, discipline, and commitment. Through her military service, she developed strong leadership skills, resilience, and a deep understanding of the unique challenges faced by service members and veterans.
Driven by a continued desire to serve beyond her time in uniform, Linda plans to use her experience, patience, and resourcefulness to support less fortunate veterans seeking stability and new opportunities. Through her work with VALVET, she is committed to helping veterans access safe housing, essential resources, and the guidance needed to rebuild and maintain stable, independent lives.
Linda’s mission reflects her lifelong dedication to service — ensuring that those who have served our nation receive the support, dignity, and care they deserve as they transition into the next chapter of their lives.
Vanessa Bright - Secretary / Treasurer
Linda Sweanigen - Head of veteran affairs
Linda Sweanigen - Head of veteran affairs
Vanessa Bright is the owner and founder of the Maryland Reentry Program, based in Annapolis, Maryland, where she has dedicated her work to supporting individuals transitioning back into society after incarceration. With a strong commitment to advocacy, structure, and second chances, Vanessa has built her program around providing guidance
Vanessa Bright is the owner and founder of the Maryland Reentry Program, based in Annapolis, Maryland, where she has dedicated her work to supporting individuals transitioning back into society after incarceration. With a strong commitment to advocacy, structure, and second chances, Vanessa has built her program around providing guidance, resources, and practical solutions that help returning citizens rebuild stable and productive lives.
Recognizing the critical need for collaboration in addressing housing instability and reentry challenges, Vanessa plans to align her expertise with VALVET. Together, both organizations will join forces to support individuals facing recent release from incarceration by helping them secure housing and essential resources in a safe, legal, and efficient manner. Through this partnership, Vanessa aims to expand access to opportunities, reduce barriers to reintegration, and create pathways toward long-term stability and success.
Kelyciaa Ennis - Head Of Media
Linda Sweanigen - Head of veteran affairs
Kelyciaa Ennis - Head Of Media
Kelyciaa Ennis is a certified web and graphic designer whose expertise dates back to 2010, long before artificial intelligence tools became widely available to the public. With years of experience creating websites, visual branding, tangible marketing materials, and digital imagery, she has developed a strong reputation for combining cre
Kelyciaa Ennis is a certified web and graphic designer whose expertise dates back to 2010, long before artificial intelligence tools became widely available to the public. With years of experience creating websites, visual branding, tangible marketing materials, and digital imagery, she has developed a strong reputation for combining creativity with strategic communication.
Kelyciaa plans to use her design and technical expertise to support VALVET by creating impactful, professional, and marketable visuals and web designs. Her work focuses on keeping the public informed, engaged, and connected by ensuring that company updates, resources, and initiatives are presented clearly and effectively. Through thoughtful design and innovative communication, she aims to help expand VALVET’s reach and strengthen its ability to serve the community.