Board of Directors

Board President Jim Phillips:

James Phillips earned a B.A. in Political Science from UC Davis and a J.D. from McGeorge School of Law. James has extensive experience in the Criminal Justice System including, 7 years with the California Victims of Crime Program, and 21 years with the District Attorney’s Offices’ in Shasta and Nevada Counties.  James has substantial experience in Narcotics Trafficking, and White Collar Crime, having tried over 95 cases to jury. James joined Project Heart’s Board of Directors shortly after his retirement in 2017 and since 2013 has served as President of Project Heart’s Board of Directors.

Board Vice President, Chris Duckett:

Chris and his wife, Janis, owned a machine shop for 44 years, where he was the CEO and shop manager. He served on the board of Wolf Mountain Christian Camp in the 1990’s. Chris has been involved in the men’s ministry at Crossroads Church since the early 1980’s. After witnessing the death of a friends’ child to drugs and alcohol, Chris felt called to help in some capacity. Upon meeting Fred Viola, Chris decided Project Heart was something he wanted to be involved with and help however he could. Chris enjoys traveling and camping with family and friends.

Board Treasurer, Janis Duckett:

Janis and her husband, Chris, owned a machine shop for 44 years where she was the CFO and bookkeeper. She has also served on the women’s ministry board at her church for many years. When she was asked to step into the treasurer position, she was excited to be able to serve Project Heart in this capacity. Janis believes in the mission of Project Heart and having experienced firsthand the heartbreak of addiction growing up with a father who struggled with alcoholism, she desires to see as many people reached and served as possible. Janis’ favorite things to do are spending time with her family, which includes 4 kids and 11 grandchildren, cooking, camping, hiking and traveling.

Board Secretary, Jo Ann Rebane:

Jo Ann Rebane is a third generation California native and a 23 year resident of Nevada County.  She is retired from a challenging career as a litigation paralegal at a top law firm in Southern California.  Jo Ann and her husband have been married for 64 years, have two daughters, 6 grandchildren, and 9 great grandchildren.  Jo Ann’s interests and talents have benefited numerous community programs both as a donor and with active involvement.   She served on the local newspaper’s editorial board, as a Stephen Minister at Sierra Pres., as secretary of SESF, and as Past-President of the Nevada County Republican Women Federated.  Mrs. Rebane says, “I am drawn to the mission of Project Heart.  I believe adults who decide to change their life’s direction can do it with Project Heart’s relationship based approach.”

Board Member At Large, George Rebane:

George Rebane PhD is a retired systems scientist, registered professional engineer, and entrepreneur with degrees in physics, engineering, and computer science. He is also a former professor, having taught in the UC and Cal State university systems. He served as an artillery officer in the US Army. His community service efforts have involved him in local governments and programs to teach young people STEM subjects and encourage STEM careers. He also sits on the boards of local non-profit organizations and is an avid blogger and socio-political commentator with various stints on radio, print, and online. He is a child, student, and defender of western culture, and also a lifelong devotee of classical music, a hack piano player, and since retirement a flâneur-in-training. With Jo Ann, his wife of 64 years, they have two children, six grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren and counting. They have lived in Nevada County since 2002. George is a naturalized citizen born in Estonia, who spent WW2 on the wrong side.

Board Member At Large, Dave Estey: 

Dave Estey brings decades of experience in construction, telecommunications, and electrical infrastructure, with a career rooted in high-risk, high-accountability environments including large-scale cell-site development. Known for his ability to rebuild struggling operations, Dave has led complex field teams, implemented rigorous quality standards, and overseen major technical retraining efforts that transformed organizations from the ground up. As co-founder of Estey Electric, he leads with steadiness, transparency, and a deep commitment to ethical work, community service, and mentoring the next generation of tradespeople.

Having spent some time observing and interacting with the founders of Project Heart, I am honored to be a member of their Board of Directors. I have always been deeply drawn and aligned with Project Heart’s core values and mission. My initial exposure to the transformative power of Project Heart occurred when I began attending their weekly men’s meetings on Thursday evenings. I was profoundly moved by the genuine mentorship and open sharing of personal struggles among the participants. It was evident that these meetings were not just events, but rather catalysts for meaningful change in the lives of those involved. The continued return of alumni year after year serves as compelling evidence of the lasting positive impact of Project Heart. Because Project Heart has had such a significant and positive influence on my own family, I am eager to contribute my skills and experience as a Board member to help Project Heart continue to expand its reach and maintain its thriving, impactful presence in the community.

Board Member At Large, Shawn Estey: 

Shawn Estey is a skilled electrical contractor and technician whose career began in the construction and telecom trades at a young age, combining hands-on fieldwork with advanced technical expertise. His background includes tower work, systems testing, and leadership roles that emphasize precision, safety, and accountability. As co-founder of Estey Electric, Shawn is recognized for building strong teams, cultivating trust with clients, and integrating purpose-driven leadership into daily operations. His approach centers on craftsmanship, integrity, and creating workplaces where people, and communities, can thrive.

Shawn Estey is proud to serve on the Board of Project Heart because he believes in the organization’s mission to provide a safe, supportive environment for people facing life’s most destabilizing challenges. Project Heart’s programs align with the same principles that guide his family and business life: integrity, accountability, and service to others. He’s honored to support work that creates connection and real opportunities for long-term stability.