STEERING COMMITTEE’S NORTHERN REPRESENTATIVE

STEERING COMMITTEE’S NORTHERN REPRESENTATIVE

I believe that little hands can do big things— and providing an outlet to help others in need reminds them that -- even though they are little -- that they can make a difference. What I especially love about being a part of VolunTots is that there are tasks for every age and ability so each of your children can feel proud of their work.

Volunteering is an enriching, hands-on learning experience for our children. It teaches them what they are capable of and allows them to turn their passion into action. That is something that is foundational to my parenting philosophy and I believe it is the way to raise considerate and kind children.

With VolunTots, my role is to work to create events for connection and care in the northern suburbs of Pittsburgh. Additionally, I meet the technical needs of the organization.

I have both my Bachelor's and Master's Degrees from Penn State University. I am passionate about causes that relate to literacy, nature, and the arts. I live in Wexford with my wonderful husband, two daughters and dog, Cannoli.

STEERING COMMITTEE’S SOUTHERN REPRESENTATIVE

I have lived in Pittsburgh my whole life & now live in the south hills with my family. I am a graduate of Clarion University and the University of Pittsburgh. I am an occupational therapist and the Assistant Director of Therapy Works LLC. I have had a love for working with children for as long as I can remember. My passion is working with picky eaters & their families to help grow their comfort with food. I joined the south branch of VolunTots in November 2022 and have enjoyed participating in such a rewarding organization. My 4 year old son, Dylan, has also greatly enjoyed participating in the unique opportunity that VolunTots offers.

STEERING COMMITTEE’S NORTHERN REPRESENTATIVE

STEERING COMMITTEE’S NORTHERN REPRESENTATIVE

STEERING COMMITTEE’S CITY REPRESENTATIVE

I live in Morningside with my husband, son, and two daughters. Originally from Missouri, I have lived in Pittsburgh for over 8 years now.

I am currently a SAHM/WAHM who works part-time as a non-profit fundraising consultant from home. I have always enjoyed volunteering and want to raise my children to be kind and giving people, so I am excited to be a part of VolunTOTS!

STEERING COMMITTEE’S CITY REPRESENTATIVE

Michaela Page excitedly joins the VolunTOTS Steering Committee as a City representative. Michaela, originally a Vermonter, has called Pittsburgh home for over ten years.   She first served in AmeriCorps focusing on education in a public school, then became a Youth Development Coordinator for a non-profit. For the last 7 years, Michaela worked as a Civic Engagement Coordinator at Carnegie Mellon, advising student service organizations and planning large scale service events.  Michaela passionately serves her community and encourages others to do the same. Along with her two children, husband and a cat named Gandalf, Michaela lives in the city, and is constantly looking for new ways to serve while having fun!

STEERING COMMITTEE’S EASTERN REPRESENTATIVE

Hi! My name is Shemaria, everyone calls MiMi. I'm a birth/postpartum doula through DONA International who loves to support families on their journey through parenthood. Every birth, every story is inspiring and beautiful in its own unique way. As a doula, my goal is to support a families choices within the home, provide encouragement/support with breastfeeding, and help provide families with the right tools to have a positive birth/postpartum experience. I believe every mother deserves the space to feel physically, mentally and emotionally supported throughout their pregnancy, labor and delivery. It's an honor to help guide and assist families through the life changing experience of parenthood.

I'm excited to be a part of VolunTots of Southwestern Pennsylvania because volunteering is near and dear to my heart. I believe it’s vital for us to be examples for the next generation of leaders and instill the importance of volunteering in our kids. When we give back as a family, she is learning to have empathy for others, discovers new skills, and enjoys working as a team to complete a common goal. Looking forward to more positive volunteer experiences as the organization grows.

STEERING COMMITTEE’S NORTHERN REPRESENTATIVE

I’m thrilled to be a steering committee member on a meaningful organization for young children like VolunTOTS. I’m a mom to Hannah and Jackson and their favorite event so far was creating treat bags for healthcare heroes. We have lots of healthcare heroes in our family, so it was an impactful experience to celebrate their hard work and dedication to keeping all of us healthy and safe.

Originally, a native Pittsburgher from the North Hills, my family and I moved back home to Pittsburgh after fifteen years in Houston, TX. Moving back home was one of the best decisions for my family. Pittsburgh has a personal meaning and history for me in the way that other cities I’ve lived in don’t - my family roots here run generations deep -and moving back truly felt to me like coming home.

I’m a full-time working mom in education. I currently work in educational consulting, specifically helping schools and systems implement research-based practices for literacy that disrupt dominant narratives about what children can achieve. My true passion and love is early childhood education. I believe all children-and especially our youngest learners, deserve an equitable opportunity at a choice-filled life.

I’m excited to see so many new faces in this group and can’t wait to see you at a future event, either virtually or in-person!