The Foundation is a small but mighty team based in Seattle, WA.
Renée Hopkins (she/her), CEO
As CEO for the Alliance for Gun Responsibility, Renée oversees the development and execution of the Alliance’s strategic plan for its 501c3, 501c4, and electoral activities. Prior to joining the Alliance for Gun Responsibility, Renée served as Executive Director of the Seattle Police Foundation (SPF) for 12 years. A lifelong native of Washington state, Renée lives in West Seattle with her husband and daughter. When not working, she can be found skiing or hiking with her family or reading in front of the fire. Read more about Renée.
Dylan O’Connor (he/him), Political and Government Affairs Manager
Dylan began his time with the Alliance for Gun Responsibility as an intern during the 2018 legislative session. Since then, he has served as the Field Director on the Yes On 1639 campaign, the Policy and Coalition Coordinator, and now as the Political and Government Affairs Manager. A passionate and dedicated activist, Dylan has worked to promote democracy and human rights at both the local and international level. When not working to prevent gun violence, Dylan can be found creating music in his studio or reading science fiction. Email Dylan.
Hazel Brown (they/them), Policy and Advocacy Manager
Hazel began their time with the Alliance for Gun Responsibility as a Fellow during the 2019 electoral cycle. Since then, they have served in various policy and advocacy positions at the Alliance before moving into their current role as Policy and Advocacy Manager. They have also served in several research positions analyzing a variety of national issues. When not at the Alliance, Hazel can be found basking in the elusive Seattle sun or playing frisbee. Email Hazel.
Alex Castro (she/they), Field Organizer Alex joined the Alliance as a Field Organizer in December of 2022. She joins us after organizing for a Congressional campaign in California’s central valley. Alex’s role with the Alliance prioritizes volunteer engagement and recruitment. When they aren’t out in the field, you can find Alex exploring Seattle. Email Alex.
Sean Kent (he/him), Graphic Designer
Sean joined the Alliance for Gun Responsibility during the I-594 campaign. Initially in the role of a communications intern, he assisted with I-594’s social media efforts. Later, in a fully-fledged communications designer role, he produced social media graphics, collateral and web-media content for various Alliance efforts and interests. Sean has contributed to the creation of the Alliance for Gun Responsibility as an identifiable and trusted brand in the gun violence prevention sphere, whether it’s the c3, c4 or PAC arms of the organization. Sean has helped craft the Alliance’s brand narrative of firearm responsibility and community engagement. Email Sean.
Stephanie Ervin (she/her), Victory Fund Director
Stephanie was the first staff hire of the Alliance for Gun Responsibility in the summer of 2013 where she served as Deputy Campaign Manager for Initiative 594, which expanded background checks in our state. After the first campaign she helped transition the organization to legislative and electoral work and to bring on the first Executive Director, Renee Hopkins.
In 2016, Stephanie ran the 1491 campaign and led our ongoing commitment to political and electoral work, supporting candidates who champion gun violence prevention. Today, she continues to help steer our electoral work through the Victory Fund PAC and supports general strategy of the Alliance. Email Stephanie.