Walk With Sally Team
FUN FACT
Mark Rothman
Interim Executive Director
Mark Rothman’s career commitment has been to help people live better, more meaningful lives. First Inspired by the power of stories to do this as an English major at Columbia University, Mark brought his enthusiasm for literature and writing to Phillips Andover Academy as a Teaching Fellow post-graduation. Later Mark launched MAR Consulting, focusing on supporting nonprofit organizations in development, grant writing, social media, and branding while also serving as an Interim Executive Director for multiple nonprofits. In addition to his work as a nonprofit leader, he has an active practice as a Progress Coach, including a YouTube page, Mark Rothman Progress Coach, and he facilitates men’s circles.
FUN FACT
matt harms
Development Director
Matt Harms’ nonprofit career has spanned many diverse organizations, including the Cerritos College Foundation, the Long Beach Museum of Art, and the Boy Scouts of America. He has over 10 years of experience in several areas of advancement, including donor relations, memberships, special events, volunteer management, and major gift fundraising. He also has a background in social media management and as a producer of virtual live Zoom events. He hold a Master’s degree in Public Administration and an undergraduate degree in Art History from California State University, Long Beach.
FUN FACT
Melissa Ostrowski
Development Manager
While attending Southwest Minnesota State University, Melissa found her love early for fundraising. She started working with her college athletic department to expand relationships with major donors to raise funds for athletic scholarships. Previously working with other cancer organizations focusing on the science behind finding a cure for cancer patients, Melissa joins Walk With Sally excited to work alongside others to empower children experiencing trauma through a loved one’s cancer journey. Melissa lives in Redondo Beach with her husband and two dogs, Sadie and Brody!
FUN FACT
KATI GARRIDO
Program Director
Kati was born in Mexico City and has been living in Los Angeles for over 20 years. She started her professional career working in the entertainment business at a Hollywood acting school where she transitioned to the non-profit animal rescue world. This is where she found her true calling, making a positive impact on society. Back in Mexico, Kati was an English teacher at a Montessori school where the experience of working with children and learning from them, was one of the most rewarding periods in her life. For Kati, it is very important to work in something you are proud of and passionate about, and Walk with Sally definitely embodies both! Having the opportunity to serve and help children who are in need of support, is something she is greatly looking forward to!
FUN FACT
JEN TOMO
Program Manager
Jen, originally from New Jersey, has been volunteering since she was in 8th-grade. From being a big sister in the Big Brother Big Sister Program to Breast Cancer walks and everything in between, Jen has done it all. She has a dynamic background in marketing, working on events, project management, and copywriting. She comes to Walk With Sally to pursue her passion for helping people and working for an organization that gives back to the community; giving her purpose. Jen enjoys traveling and being outside. You can find her on the beach in her downtime!
FUN FACT
karen avelino
Bilingual Program & Administrative Coordinator
Karen, a proud Bruin, obtained a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology, Chicana/o Studies, and a minor in LGBTQ studies in 2019. Prior to culminating, Karen worked in the nonprofit sector as a Volunteer Coordinator in the Tenant Services Department, plus offered academic support as a Peer Mentor at UCLA for undergraduate students. Karen, a former Child and Family Specialist for a wraparound program, joins Walk With Sally eager to bring a culturally sensitive approach, trauma-informed practice, and mental health awareness to better assist individuals that have been impacted by cancer. (pronouns: She, Her, They, Them)
