OC Business Journal Spotlight: Strengthening the Mission with Erin Giglia and WISEPlace Board Leaders

At Montage Legal Group, we believe in the power of women supporting women—whether through flexible legal careers, community partnerships, or helping lift each other up during life’s most difficult moments. That’s why I’m honored to serve on the Board of Directors at WISEPlace, an Orange County nonprofit that supports unaccompanied women experiencing homelessness.

Recently, the Orange County Business Journal ran a brief piece spotlighting a few of WISEPlace’s newest board members, including myself, Bryon Culp of Colliers and Michael Boos. Michael Boos, the newest addition, serves as Vice President of Business Development at Koru Risk Management and is a Southwest Airlines Captain. Known for his innovative mindset and heartfelt leadership, Michael’s dedication to finding new ways to support the community strengthens WISEPlace’s mission.

Byron Culp, a Board Member since 2022, is the Director of Business Development at Wright Ford Young & Co. CPAs. Through his work and personal advocacy, Byron passionately supports unaccompanied women experiencing homelessness and actively engages his network to advance WISEPlace’s goals.

I’m honored to be in such dedicated company and inspired by the leadership of WISEPlace’s dynamic CEO, Brateil Aghasi, whose vision drives the organization’s transformative work. Under Brateil’s inspiring leadership, WISEPlace achieved a significant milestone earlier this year: the opening of its first permanent supportive housing expansion in March 2025. This groundbreaking project is the only one in Orange County with housing vouchers earmarked for survivors earning no more than 30% of the Area Median Income (AMI), setting a powerful example for future developments.

WISEPlace is the only nonprofit in Orange County focused exclusively on unaccompanied women experiencing homelessness. These are women who don’t have children with them or partners to qualify for most shelter systems. They often fall through the cracks—but WISEPlace ensures they are seen, supported, and empowered.

More than just a place to sleep, WISEPlace offers wraparound services including mental health care, job readiness, and pathways to permanent housing. The goal isn’t just stability—it’s helping women truly rebuild their lives.

I joined the board because I believe that supporting women also means showing up for them when they need it most. As a local business owner and working mom, I’m proud to contribute to an organization making a tangible impact right here in our Orange County community.

If you’re interested in learning more about WISEPlace—or in getting involved—I invite you to visit wiseplace.org or reach out to me directly. There’s always a way to make a difference.