Meet Our Team

PRESIDENT

Abbey is a founding force behind The Village Initiative, serving on the Board of Directors and Administration Team. Inspired by her own journey through postpartum depression, Abbey turned her personal struggle into a passionate mission: to ensure no woman faces darkness alone. Whether she’s sipping iced coffee, crafting, or advocating for maternal mental health, Abbey leads with heart, humor, and grit. Known lovingly as “Sister” by many, she brings confidence, compassion, and a vision of lasting connection to everything she touches. Abbey is proudest of the friendships formed through this community and is deeply committed to helping others feel calm, seen, and supported.

VICE PRESIDENT

Rayna is a dedicated member of the Board of Directors, bringing her passion and purpose to every corner of the community. Fueled by her own journey of finding purpose beyond being a stay-at-home mom, Rayna’s mission is clear: to show other women they are never alone. Whether she’s sipping espresso, gaming, or singing her heart out, Rayna leads with wit, warmth, and a fiercely sarcastic charm. Known for her love of Taylor Swift and her deep appreciation for nature’s quiet moments, she brings a grounded, joyful energy to everything she touches. Proud mom of two cats and one dog, Rayna is most proud of helping families find comfort—like providing beds to children who once all shared one with their mom. Through this community, she’s discovered that no matter our backgrounds, we share a common thread—and that realization brings a profound sense of relief and hope to her life and others’.

BOARD TREASURER

Alyse was born and raised in South Bend, and now lives in Mishawaka with her husband. She is a dedicated employee at her family's flooring business, and is very excited to be a part of the Village Initiative! Alyse has always had a heart to serve, and feels drawn to help those who are struggling, however she can. In today's world, it can be discouraging to look for opportunities to help struggling members of our community tangibly, but this organization is an amazing way to get involved. In her spare time, Alyse loves to be with her family, friends, and, of course, her two tiny dogs - Alphie and Stella. She is a lover of music (especially concerts), art, crafting, reading, and the occasional guilty pleasure reality TV show. Looking ahead, Alyse is ready to help the Village Initiative grow and reach even more deserving families in our area who need some support! 

BOARD MEMBER

A proud Mishawaka local and a Purdue University graduate. With a background in Human Resources at Target, he brings valuable leadership experience to The Village Initiative. Manav is passionate about community service and is dedicated to connecting his organization with local volunteer opportunities.

BOARD MEMBER

A dedicated attorney with a passion for community service. A Purdue University graduate with a Juris Doctor from Valparaiso University School of Law, she focuses on medical malpractice defense, family law, criminal defense, and general litigation. Courtney's commitment to helping others extends beyond her legal work, having previously volunteered with United Way of Central Indiana.

COMMUNITY AMBASSADOR

Brooke serves as a community ambassador at The Village Initiative, bringing a vibrant energy and hands-on spirit to everything she does. From leading the Hopes Initiative to dreaming up walking clubs, she’s always seeking new ways to connect and uplift others. A lover of DIY projects, rock and roll, and cake baking, Brooke’s heart for service is rooted in personal experience—driven by the desire to break cycles and ensure no one feels unsupported. With two dogs by her side and a coffee in hand, she’s helping build a more hopeful, connected community—one step (and one project) at a time.

INITIATIVE COORDINATOR

An energetic coordinator with a thoughtful heart, Sarah brings a love of cooking and community to the Initiative Coordinator Team. Originally drawn in by a viral TikTok, Sarah quickly found purpose and belonging through volunteering. Whether she's rallying friends to join the cause or dreaming up ideas like wine and cooking nights, she approaches every opportunity with compassion and creativity. Though she’s not a South Bend native, Sarah is passionate about supporting people through tough seasons and believes deeply in the power of showing up with heart—and a little humor.

MARKETING

Amber Smith brings heart, humor, and a love of design to The Village Initiative’s Marketing Team. A creative spirit with a deep servant’s heart, Amber found her way to TVI after the loss of her mom, seeking purpose—and discovering a community. Whether she’s crafting graphics or starting a book club, she leads with compassion and faith, always ready to remind others that they matter and are never alone. With three dogs and a kitten, a playlist full of old school hip hop and Golden Girls reruns queued up, Amber is proof that joy and service can go hand in hand.

EVENTS/FUNDRAISING

A creative spirit with a giving heart, Libby joined the Events and Fundraising Team after seeking community as a new mom—and found a renewed passion for service. With a background in sewing, swim instruction, and a deep love of reading, Libby brings both flexibility and enthusiasm to her role. From organizing standout events like the Easter egg fundraiser to inspiring others through her dedication, Libby is driven by a belief in making a difference—big or small. When she’s not giving back, you can find her enjoying ice cream, watching Criminal Minds, or spending time with her two dogs, a husky mix and a pit bull.

MARKETING

A detail-oriented creative with a heart for service, Emily brings administrative magic and marketing flair to the team. By day, she designs social media graphics; by night, she’s dreaming up ways to support neighbors in meaningful, judgment-free ways. From gardening to gift baskets to boosting fundraiser reach, Emily thrives on glue work—quietly connecting dots and people alike. Her favorite part? Helping build the kind of community she hopes to raise a family in someday, one where joy, relief, and a sense of belonging are always within reach.

EVENTS/FUNDRAISING

A devoted mother and creative soul, Tiffany found her calling with the Events and Fundraising Team after years of searching for a nonprofit that resonated with her. With a passion for scrapbooking and a love of iced tea, she brings both creativity and determination to every project. Inspired by her own parenting journey, Tiffany thrives on building connections and creating welcoming spaces where people feel seen and supported. Whether coordinating impactful events like the Pay What You Can Sale or unwinding with a period drama, Tiffany believes in the transformative power of community—and the hope it can offer.

MARKETING

A mindset coach with an eye for design and a heart full of empathy, Kristi wears many hats at The Village Initiative—serving on the Board of Directors and creating uplifting social media content. With a background in mental health advocacy and a deep love for calligraphy, Kristi blends creativity and compassion to help others reconnect with themselves. Whether she's planning a future Self Love Club or walking her dog Dobby at sunset, Kristi is rooted in the belief that everyone deserves peace of mind, a strong support system, and the tools to grow into the best version of themselves.

EVENTS/FUNDRAISING

Meghan serves on the events and fundraising team, bringing enthusiasm and organization to every event. She joined The Village Initiative seeking a way to give back to the community while utilizing her background in event management. She enjoys spending her free time with family, exploring local parks, playing pickleball, and crafting. Meghan believes that no action is too small to make a lasting difference and is inspired by her grandfather, who always made it a point to go out of his way to treat others with kindness. 

MARKETING

Callahan is a digital strategist, entrepreneur, and mother with a deep passion for building strong, supportive communities. Through her work in influencer marketing and brand strategy, she has spent years creating meaningful connections and amplifying voices, especially those that inspire resilience and belonging. As a former foster parent, she values the power of a village, and she’s committed to helping women access resources, support, and community during pivotal life moments.

EVENTS/FUNDRAISING

Miranda is an empathetic member of The Village Initiative’s Events and Fundraising Team, bringing warmth and thoughtful care to every endeavor. With a love for bluegrass tunes and relaxing with sticker-by-number books, Miranda blends creativity and kindness in her work. Whether she’s enjoying cherry Pepsi Zero or watching trash reality TV, she approaches her role with a quiet strength and genuine heart. Proud dog mom to Leyland, her English Bull Terrier, Miranda dreams of building a gardening and homesteading community that fosters sustainability and connection. She believes deeply in the power of give and take, working to promote local businesses and nurture a sense of belonging where everyone feels safe, welcomed, and supported.