I convert vision to strategy and strategy to operations because it’s not enough just to hope that children will thrive. I must act so that children thrive throughout generations.

Joan brings to the team an ability to strategize, build relationships and put Children’s Trust vision and mission into operational form. She oversees strategy, grant writing and human resources for the organization.

Her previous work leadership roles in her 30-year career of systems building and service to the field include director of grant making and programs at the Central Carolina Community Foundation, executive director of Communities In School of the Midlands, and director of development for The Nurturing Center.

Joan holds a master’s in business administration-management from the University of South Carolina as well as bachelor’s degrees in journalism and theater and speech from USC. She has served on multiple boards and committees in the community, and she currently serves on the national board of directors for the Children’s Trust Fund Alliance.

Supporting children and families means healthier communities and a healthier future for everyone. I believe that everyone can relate to the mission of Children’s Trust. We were all children once!

Alison plans and implements high-quality events, including training, program, board, and other ad hoc events and functions.

She previously served as the director of volunteer programs at Pawmetto Lifeline and volunteer services senior specialist at the American Red Cross Asheville Mountain Area Chapter. She also volunteered at the Appalachian Wildlife Refuge as a development committee member and event chair.

Alison earned a bachelor’s degree in public and international affairs from the University of Georgia.

Jennifer Haley serves as the executive assistant for Children’s Trust. She provides administrative and organizational support to assist operations and works with senior leadership and administrative staff to plan, organize, and implement administrative support systems.

She previously served in executive assistant roles for the past 20-plus years supporting the CEO and executive-level members of a global manufacturer and a community-based federal credit union.

Lyndsey researches new funding opportunities and coordinates grant applications and reporting. She also develops and implements processes and controls for grant coordination. Her previous experience included positions with the Carolina Youth Development Center and the Trident United Way.

She earned a law degree from Wake Forest University School of Law, and she has a bachelor’s degree in communication from Virginia Tech.

Caitlyn oversees all logistics for the development team related to the organization’s donor stewardship, communications, and special events.

Prior to joining Children’s Trust, Caitlyn worked as an events specialist with a local catering company. She previously worked at the University of South Carolina in various capacities with both the Honors College and the Gamecock Club in fundraising, donor communications, sales and membership services.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in public relations and a master’s degree in sport and entertainment management from USC.

I find ways to keep our team safe, happy, and healthy as the team finds ways to keep South Carolina kids safe, happy, and healthy.

As a Society for Human Resource Management Certified Professional (SHRM-CP), Ameka leads the development of employee relations, workforce development and continuous quality improvement while also implementing policies and strategies, serving as point of contact for staff and stakeholders, and delivering human resources services. She is responsible for benefits, payroll, employee relations, recruiting/employment and onboarding.

A graduate of Midlands Technical College with associate degrees in business management and marketing, she has spent her career in accounting and office administration.