Our Board

Vanessa R. Ames, a retired Chief Creative and Strategy Officer with over two decades of experience in advertising and marketing, brings a powerful blend of professional expertise and philanthropic passion to her new role as Board Chair of AVDA (Aid to Victims of Domestic Abuse). A Houston resident, Vanessa’s journey reflects her unwavering commitment to supporting women, children, and vulnerable communities through advocacy, leadership, and innovative fundraising.

Vanessa’s accomplished career began in New York City and Atlanta, where she honed her creative and strategic acumen at top-tier advertising agencies and startups. She built a legacy of success working with clients like Bank of America, Nationwide, Nature’s Bounty, and BMW, becoming known for her ability to elevate brands and inspire audiences. After retiring in 2023, Vanessa embraced a new chapter devoted to empowering nonprofits and creating lasting change in her community.

Her history with AVDA is marked by impactful leadership, including chairing the 2020 Home Safe Home Gala, where she helped reinvent the event during the pandemic, raising over $400,000 to support survivors of domestic abuse. This ingenuity and dedication have made her an invaluable advocate for AVDA’s mission to break the cycle of violence and empower survivors to rebuild their lives.

Beyond her work with AVDA, Vanessa plays a strategic role in advancing public safety initiatives as a Crime Stoppers of Houston Board Member and supports educational equity as part of the Houston Classical Charter School Advisory Board. As a member of The Houston 20, she has been a relentless advocate for combating human trafficking, supporting direct services for survivors, and driving legislative change. Her ability to unite communities, challenge norms, and inspire action is a hallmark of her leadership.

At home, Vanessa finds strength and joy with her supportive husband, Chuck, their twins, Charlie and Ruby, and their beloved dogs, Louie and Birdie. Together, they are deeply committed to causes that uplift and protect those in need.

As Board Chair of AVDA, Vanessa is poised to continue pushing creative boundaries, raising critical awareness, and leading the organization into a new chapter of growth and impact. Guided by her belief that “in every challenge lies an opportunity for greatness,” Vanessa’s vision and leadership promise a brighter, safer future for all.