Our Staff

At the heart of START is a team of devoted staff, board members, and ambassadors working to uplift lives and build a stronger, more connected community.

Executive Director – Laura Braund: Leads the organization, builds community partnerships, and oversees strategic growth.

Executive Assistant – Amanda Johnson: Manages daily operations, coordinates communications, supports donor acknowledgments, and ensures the team functions efficiently so programs and services run seamlessly.

Case Manager – Lauren Coyle: Works directly with individuals and families, providing comprehensive case management, resource navigation, and ongoing support to help address barriers and build stability.

Board of Directors

As volunteers, START Board of Directors tirelessly demonstrate, educate, and advocate for our mission. As a governing body, they help START’s mission and vision to ensure we remain a trusted, responsive resource for our neighbors in need.

Board President: Dorann Bradford

Board Vice President: Sam Eifert

Board Secretary: Amy Hynek

Board Treasurer: Michelle Abey

Board Director: Martel Moreland

Board Director: Matt Roethe

Board Director: Shannon Davis

Ambassadors

As volunteers, Ambassadors serve as community representatives of START, promoting the organization’s mission and vision. Ambassadors engage and educate the public about START’s services, advocate for the well-being of individuals and families in need, and assist with fundraising efforts to support START’s programs and services.

Thank you, Abbey Welch, Brenda Collins, Donna Olson, Heather North, Jordan Tilleson, Lisa Fernan, Meg Veek, Peter Sveum, Teresa Plumley, and Pastor Todd McVey.