Rev. Ciera Bates-Chamberlain
Executive Director
Rev. Ciera Bates-Chamberlain was born and raised on the Southside of Chicago. She is committed to the fight for social and economic justice by strengthening communities through radical theology. As the Founder and Executive Director of Live Free Chicago-Live Free Illinois, Ciera works with Black churches to create safe, economically viable, and self-sustained Black communities. Prior to Live Free Chicago, Ciera served as the senior organizer at a faith-based organization.
Ciera received her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Lamar University, a Master’s in Social Work from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and a Master's in Theological Studies from McCormick Theological Seminary. She has worked as an adjunct professor at Northeastern University, a mental health professional, and a strategy consultant. In 2013, Ciera was ordained as a minister through the Church of Jesus Christ House of Prayer Inc., where she served as the church administrator for the Chicago congregation. Ciera is a proud wife and mother of three daughters, one son, and a blended family of 9.
Artinese Myrick
Organizing & Policy Director
Artinese leads LIVE FREE Illinois’s organizing and policy work. Artinese has experience in police accountability and reimagining new systems that reduce the footprint of policing. Prior to LFI, Artinese was a justice diversion coordinator, serving individuals who had law enforcement interaction and identifying their needs. Artinese has a master's degree in Social Work from the University of Illinois. Artinese is an adjunct professor at U of I Urbana. In addition to her professional experience, Artinese and her family have been directly impacted by police violence, incarceration, and gun violence. She is committed to building power to transform systems.
Pastor Deric caples
Statewide organizer
Deric R. Caples Sr. is an Associate Pastor of Jesus Name Apostolic Church in Waukegan, Illinois. He has served in multi-levels of ministry leadership for the past 30 years. He is a manager in the chemical processing industry, in which he has 27 years of experience.
Along with his ministry service and chemical career, for the past 25 years, he has been dedicated to his community. He facilitated The Locker Room, a community men’s support group. He held the position of Program Director for the Family First Support Center.
He is currently the Regional Fellow / Lead organizer of Lake County, for LIVE FREE Illinois. In this role, he works to unite Faith-based and community organizations to stand against social injustice. His true passion is preserving the family structure.
Deric married the love of his life Shantina in May of 1996. Together they have three sons, Andre, Deric Jr., and Kenneth. He and his wife have also been blessed with three grandchildren. With his family, he lives in Waukegan.
Dr. Patiya Freely
CHRC NETWORK Program DIRECTOR
Dr. Patiya Freely is a youth-centered social worker with over 15 years of experience dedicated to improving the outcomes of people living in high-burden communities. She holds a B.A. in Business Administration from Howard University, an MSW from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and a Ph.D. in Social Work from Loyola University Chicago.
Dr. Freely has a proven track record as a project manager, strategist, and advocate, successfully leading initiatives that address urban youth and structural inequities. Recognized for her compassion, faith, and personality, she approaches social issues with a non-traditional lens, emphasizing collaboration and prioritizing stakeholder expertise. Now serving with Live Free Illinois, where she is affectionately called “Dr. P”, Dr. Freely joins a team dedicated to finding innovative solutions to prevent violence, support impacted communities, and help people lead thriving lives.
Dr. Rodney C. Walker
CHRC Network Program Manager
Dr. Rodney C. Walker has over 20 years of senior management experience serving social services, community health, community development, and justice-related nonprofits serving Chicago and statewide communities.
Dr. Walker has implemented several faith-based ministries within congregations within the City of Chicago. Dr. Walker holds a BA in Political Science from Chicago State University, M.DIV from Chicago Theological Seminary, and a D.MIN from Northern Seminary, Christian Community Development.
JESSIE MACk
DEVELOPMENT AND COMMUNICATIONS Director
Jessie Mack is excited to serve as the Director of Development and Communications at Live Free Illinois, where he will leverage his extensive experience in nonprofit advancement to support the organization's mission for social justice. With years of experience in institutional advancement and over a decade of experience in the faith-based community, Jessie has a strong background in fundraising, community engagement, and strategic communications, having successfully managed donor relations and led impactful initiatives throughout his career. Previously, he held a senior leadership role at a network of charter schools, where he played a key role in raising significant funds to support educational programs and fostered partnerships with various stakeholders.
A Chicago native, Jessie holds an MBA with double concentrations in Marketing and Management from DePaul University's Kellstadt School of Business, as well as a BA in Communication from Denison University. He is deeply committed to community service and has been actively involved in organizations that promote positive change, including his current involvement in ministerial leadership at his local assembly. He is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. In his new role at Live Free Illinois, Jessie aims to enhance development efforts and amplify the organization's message, furthering its vital work in justice and liberation.
DR. DAVID RIVERS
Decarceration Fellowship Coordinator
Dr. David Rivers is excited to join Live Free Illinois as the new Decarceration Fellowship Coordinator, where he will focus on empowering individuals impacted by the criminal justice system. With an MSW and Ed.D, David is dedicated to addressing the challenges faced by those affected by incarceration, including mental health issues, family dynamics, and life transitions.
Before joining Live Free Illinois, Dr. Rivers was a therapist at Helping Hands of Hope Counseling, specializing in treating individuals and families dealing with depression, anxiety, grief, and behavioral issues across a diverse age range from adolescents to older adults. His therapeutic approach emphasized developing awareness of conscious and unconscious thoughts that influence behaviors and overall quality of life.
Dr. Rivers brings over 18 years of experience in direct service agencies, having held significant leadership roles, including Field Director for Acclivus Inc., where he oversaw trauma units and emergency rooms, and leading the behavioral health units at Humboldt Park Health. His work has involved educating communities on trauma-informed care and providing essential resources.In addition to his managerial role, David is a skilled facilitator in community violence intervention and prevention. His credentials include certifications in Trauma Informed Care, Therapeutic Crisis Intervention, and Mental Health First Aid, along with the required 3000 hours of supervision for LCSW licensure.