Our team

When my niece passed away, I saw how our family, friends and community came together to support us through this difficult time. I recalled the last time I visited her, giving her a teddy bear that reminded me of the toys from my own childhood. A few weeks later, I saw an ad asking for toy donations, purchased 5 of those same teddy bears in her honor, and the idea of Soraya Cares was born. I wanted a way to "pay it forward" and give back to the community. My hope is that through this organization, we are able to positively impact the lives of children and help give them a sense of comfort and security.

"What we call the beginning is often the end. And to make an end is to make a beginning. The end is where we start from." 

- T.S. Eliot

Losing a child is a difficult road no one should have to travel. Although Soraya may have lived a short life on this earth, her life impacted many around us. As her mother, I am so grateful for all the joyous moments shared with Soraya during her time here. Like most children, she loved stuffed animals and playing with toys. Even in her final moments, while not feeling well, she embraced her favorite doll as a form of comfort during a hard time. My goal is for Soraya Cares to spread love and compassion to other children who may be experiencing a difficult time in their lives. I know Soraya would be proud to see these children feeling as special as she did. 

"If you see someone without a smile today, give 'em yours."  

- Dolly Parton

I first met Melissa in 2014 when she interviewed for a position I needed to fill. I knew I wanted to hire her almost immediately, but I didn’t anticipate we would soon become close friends and such an important part of each other’s lives. Throughout the years, I have seen Melissa go out of her way to make everyone around her feel included and appreciated. Her daughter, Zoe, even shares this same compassion for others. Soraya is no longer here to share in her mother and sister’s desire to help those in need, so I feel privileged to be part of Soraya Cares and spread love and joy in her honor.

 "Love and compassion are necessities, not luxuries. Without them, humanity cannot survive."  

- Dalai Lama

In 2006, Melissa and I were brought together via our professional careers. She was a young college student forging her way and eager to leave her mark in the world. We immediately connected and fostered a friendship that has transcended time and distance. In the nearly 20 years since, I’ve seen Melissa face adversity on more than one occasion, always with courage and the determination to overcome, but on Thanksgiving of 2022, when Soraya suddenly and unexpectedly passed, she and her family were faced with the worst possible nightmare. Despite their world being rocked, Melissa and her family have navigated the waves of grief with kindness and grace, determined to find purpose through the pain. I am honored to be part of this team and look forward to the impact that Soraya Cares will have on the community.

"I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." 

- Maya Angelou