Meet the Team
Staff
Kris Keller Executive Director
It came as a surprise to Kris late in her career that she had a real love for non-profit work!
Kris Keller Executive Director
It came as a surprise to Kris late in her career that she had a real love for non-profit work! She says that it's the people - trusting clients, talented staff, wonderful volunteers and donors, committed board members and creative partners who inspire her to help solve challenges for our neighbors in need. Kris started out in California with an engineering degree and MBA. She feels fortunate to have been asked to help re-imagine Orion for its fifth decade. When you connect with her, ask where in the world her kids are today, her favorite Jersey beach or about recent hiking/biking adventures.
Melinda Izzo Operations Manager
After volunteering for four years, Melinda joined Orion in December 2018 as Program Coordinator for our STARS and GLAD programs.
Melinda Izzo Operations Manager
After volunteering for four years, Melinda joined Orion in December 2018 as Program Coordinator for the STARS and GLAD programs. She has a B.S. in counseling from Geneva College and has a background in children's mental health and early childhood education with an emphasis in autism. Melinda loves children's literature and guiding children in acquiring new skills and overcoming challenges. She comes to Orion with a can-do attitude and an ability to network and identify resources for the children and families in our programs. In her free time, she enjoys cooking, reading and perennial gardening.
Yvette Blanding Development and Outreach Manager
New to the Orion team, Yvette is ready to embrace her passion for helping others.
Yvette Blanding Development and Outreach Manager
New to the Orion team, Yvette is ready to embrace her passion for helping others. She acted as an administrative point of contact for executives and clients for over 15 years. During that time, she received her B.S. and M.S. in Criminal Justice from West Chester University. With her ability to build trusting relationships and strong social skills, she is eager to empower and improve the quality of life of individuals and families in the community. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling, singing, reading, cooking, and spending time with her husband and children.
Katie Dempsey Case Management Supervisor
Katie Dempsey’s background is in writing and counseling, but she has found her passion in case management.
Katie Dempsey Case Management Supervisor
Katie Dempsey’s background is in writing and counseling, but she has found her passion in case management. After receiving her Bachelor’s degree in Creative Writing from the University of Pittsburgh, she worked a variety of jobs across the great state of Pennsylvania. In 2015, she returned to school to earn her Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. While pursuing her degree, she worked as a geriatric case manager in Norristown and, after graduating, worked in Chester County helping individuals struggling with homelessness and unstable housing before joining Orion Communities. She lives with her husband, two cats and one rescue pitbull in Wayne and enjoys drawing, cooking, eating at all of the area’s best vegan restaurants, and watching Star Trek reruns on TV.
Rachelle Hill Case Manager
Rachelle recently graduated from Chestnut Hill College with her Bachelor’s degree in Human Services.
Rachelle Hill Case Manager
Rachelle recently graduated from Chestnut Hill College with her Bachelor’s degree in Human Services. She has worked with special needs children and the elderly for the ten years. Rachelle is excited to begin this new journey of helping others and being a part of the Orion team. In her spare time Rachelle enjoys spending time with her 3 children and creating new experiences for them.
Kari Burdeau Administrative Specialist
Kari has worked for a variety of non-profit and for profit businesses over the last 22 years, gaining experience in office management, advocacy, and customer service.
LaVeana McCoy Receptionist
New to the Orion team, LaVeana is ready to embrace her passion for helping others.
LaVeana McCoy Receptionist
LaVeana joined the Orion team in December of 2019. She brings with her over 20 years of Business Administration experience. LaVeana feels comfortable problem solving, managing information databases and supporting senior employees. While currently pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, LaVeana has already achieved her Associate of Science degree in Business Administration and Human Resource Management. She loves helping others and comes to Orion eager and ready to support clients in need. In her free time, LaVeana enjoys sewing, listening to opera, playing tennis, and spending time with her grandchildren.
Thalia Dafermos Office Assistant
Thalia is an old timer residing at Camphill Soltane for the past 25 years.
Thalia Dafermos Office Assistant
Thalia is an old timer residing at Camphill Soltane for the past 25 years. She got to know Orion when she was working in a local restaurant. Thalia was interested in office work and started as a volunteer. Over time, she showed increased comfort, confidence, and independence that resulted in her being hired as a part time employee.
Thalia keeps busy in the office with filing, shredding, and organizing donations of food and personal care items. She has many interests but two of them are annual trips home to Greece and painting her feelings with water colors. She also likes weaving in the textile training studio on the Soltane property.
Mikaela Woods Outreach Associate
Mikaela is a new member of the Orion Communities team. All her life, she knew she wanted to help people, in any way she could.
Mikaela Woods Data Entry Clerk
Mikaela is a new member of the Orion Communities team. All her life, she knew she wanted to help people, in any way she could. Mikaela was very excited to learn about Orion Communities' mission and their work. It was the perfect opportunity to give back.
She attends the University of Valley Forge studying Intercultural Studies. After she graduates, Mikaela hopes to get a Master's in organizational development.
Ron Moyer Maintainance
Ron Moyer has been a long-time friend of Orion and works in maintenance.
Ron Moyer Maintenance
Ron Moyer has been a long-time friend of Orion and works in maintenance. Ron is always eager to help, whether it’s cleaning, repairing, assembling or helping with deliveries of donations. Ron loves trivia and keeps us informed and often entertained with new things he’s learned. He is also a huge fan of music from the 50’s and 60’s and is quite a crooner himself! When Ron is in the office, he brings a care and protection for others, a laugh and always a glimmer in his eye.
Elsie Rust Case Manager
Elsie started her career working for the community in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where she was born and raised.
Elsie Rust Case Manager
Elsie started her career working for the community in San Juan, Puerto Rico, where she was born and raised. She received her BA in Psychology and Elementary Education from the Universidad Del Sagrado Corazon. She moved to Pennsylvania in 2009 and worked as a foster care case manager and most recently as an educator. Elsie spends her free time with her husband and son, who is a middle school student, by traveling, biking, rock climbing, camping and going to the beach.
She also enjoys running, obstacle races, and making memories with her family.
Michelle Warwick Case Manager
Michelle is a recent graduate from Cabrini University with her Bachelor’s in Social Work.
Michelle Warwick Case Manager
Michelle is a recent graduate from Cabrini University with her Bachelor’s in Social Work. Prior to joining the case management team Michelle was an intern at Orion! Before case management Michelle had worked with children. Michelle is excited to start her career in social work and to be a support to her new community. In her free time she enjoys bringing her dog for walks at the shore and trying new coffee!
Board of Directors
Keith Burress President
Keith stumbled into the most challenging and rewarding opportunity for growth by joining Orion’s board in 2014.
Keith Burress President
Keith stumbled into the most challenging and rewarding opportunity for growth by joining Orion’s board in 2014. He found a passionate organization with deep community roots that matched the community awareness that he was taught as a child. Philadelphia born and bred (thoroughly celebrated the Eagles Super Bowl victory) he has worked for over 20 years at Family Service of Chester County as a Medical Case Manager providing services to those infected/affected by HIV in Chester County.
Keith graduated from Hahnemann University/Drexel University with a B.A. in Psychology and is a certified mediator. He is a past board member of The Philadelphia AIDS Consortium and the African American Health and Wellness Fair and currently a member of The Community Coalition, H.U.B. of Hope, and the Council on Affordable Housing. For fun and relaxation his love of music and sports are only surpassed by the joy of his family.
Ellen Scott Vice President
Ellen is special counsel in the Berwyn office of Troutman Pepper Hamilton Sanders, LLP. She has retired from her prior practice in the firm’s Health Sciences Department.
Ellen Scott Member
Ellen is special counsel in the Berwyn office of Troutman Pepper Hamilton Sanders, LLP. She has retired from her prior practice in the firm’s Health Sciences Department, in which she represented manufacturers and marketers of prescription and over-the-counter pharmaceuticals and medical devices in defense of complex mass torts, product liability, and consumer fraud litigation. She now works solely on pro bono matters, including the representation of the Pennsylvania Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, and homeless advocacy work. Ellen is also a Fellow of the Pepper Center for Public Service. She has a BA in political science, a master’s in secondary education and a law degree.
Patrick Killeen Treasurer
Patrick has been working in the banking sector since graduating from Drexel University with a degree in Business Administration.
Patrick Killeen Member
Patrick has been working in the banking sector since graduating from Drexel University with a degree in Business Administration. He is currently the Chief Risk Officer of The Bryn Mawr Trust Company. As a 26 year banking veteran, Patrick hasheld a variety of audit, operational, and risk management leadership roles at banks and financial service businesses.
Patrick understands that it is important to give back to our local communities and to support those around us who need a helping hand. He and his wife recently moved to Phoenixville and are looking forward to getting involved in their new community.
When opportunity allows, Patrick and Anne love to retreat to Red Horse Lake in Canada, or down to the beach where they were married, Cape Hatteras, North Carolina.
Lynn Seay Board Secretary
Lynn Seay graduated from Henderson High School, attended Delaware County Community College, and served four (4) years in the U.S. Air Force.
Lynn Seay Board Secretary
Lynn Seay is a native Chester Countian who graduated from Henderson High School in West Chester, attended Delaware County Community College, and served four (4) years in the U.S. Air Force as an X-ray technician.
As a professional with 50 years of working experience, she has experience in the following areas: banking, hospital cardiac catheterization lab, Paralegal, and as the Administrative and Development Coordinator for the last ten years at a non-profit serving elders in a large retirement community.
As a person who wants to contribute to her community, Lynn has been a longtime volunteer at the Chester County Domestic Violence Center, and at Orion Communities.
Lynn resides in Phoenixville and has two grown children living locally and five grandchildren.
Ken George Past President
Ken has been Orion’s go to guy for many years and it is due to his generous nature and incredible variety of life experiences.
Ken George Past President
Ken has been Orion’s go to guy for many years and it is due to his generous nature and incredible variety of life experiences. It culminated during his final working years as the lay executive in charge of immigration services, refugee resettlement, and domestic disaster relief for American Baptist Churches USA. But that just scratches the surface.
A veteran of the United States Air Force, Ken has worked in public service that led him to be the Director of City Development for Schenectady, NY. He is also a theater enthusiast and enjoys both attending live performances as well as being on stage… a personal favorite was playing Tevye in Fiddler on the Roof.
Orion has benefited greatly from Ken’s leadership, broad experiences and sense of humor in serving our mission for those in need.
Members
Kara Bielli Member
Kara is a faculty and administrator at Villa Maria Academy High School. She has a B.A. in English and a law degree.
Kara Bielli Member
Kara is the Director of Service and Social Justice at Villa Maria Academy High School. She has a B.A. in English and a law degree. For six years she practiced law before transitioning to a career in education and service. She volunteers in diversity programs and lunch programs for underserved children.
A friend introduced Kara to Orion and before she knew it she was on the Board and swept up in typical Orion activities such as chairing a committee and decorating the front window with her daughter and a friend. While camping may not her favorite thing, she does enjoy taking a group of high school students to explore the wilderness each summer.
Janet Gervais Member
Janet Gervais has worked as a research scientist for local pharmaceutical and Bio Tech companies and has planned social events for corporations.
Janet Gervais Board Member
Janet Gervais has worked as a research scientist for local pharmaceutical and Bio Tech companies and has planned social events for corporations. These events varied from Departmental Picnics, Employee and family appreciation days, Bring your Kids to Work Day, organizing volunteers to help at Habitat for Humanity, Ronald McDonald House, Laurel House (food, gift cards), Toys for Tots and more.
Janet also serves on the Board of Wings for Success, VP Wings for Success (2019-present) a non-profit organization that provides apparel, advice and advocacy to deserving women in the community. Janet attended University of Technology, Jamaica (Diploma in Medical Technology) as well as Cabrini College where she earned a BS in Biology and MS in Organizational Leadership.
Janet now serves on the Cabrini University Alumni Board (2020- present) working to bring equality and improve the school’s involvement in the student community and create more alumni engagement.
Theresa Thornton Member
Theresa Thornton is a Phoenixville native and business owner. She and her family have been active in the community since 1955.
Theresa Thornton Member
Theresa Thornton is a Phoenixville native and business owner. She and her family have been active in the community since 1955. Her business, Miss Kitty’s Care, encourages good mental and spiritual health of family caregivers and other caregivers.
Theresa is co-founder and President of Black Light Projects. Additionally, she partners and volunteers with several other local community initiatives.
Theresa has a BA in Political Science from Yale University. She serves on the boards of the Phoenixville Community Health Foundation, and is a Board Emeritus member of Phoenixville Area Positive Alternatives.
Linh Nguyen Member
Linh Nguyen is a graduate of Temple University, Fox School of Business. She currently is a HR Business Partner for SEI located in Oaks, PA.
Linh Nguyen Member
Linh Nguyen was formerly a Senior HR Business Partner for SEI, located in Oaks, PA, and worked for their US and UK locations. Currently, she is a Marketing Director who continues to link her professional passions of workplace experience and marketing. Linh believes she can extend her work ethic to Orion by having a “people first” mindset. Linh was a former resident of Phoenixville and fell in love with Orion’s mission and the family-oriented community of Phoenixville.
Her interests include kickboxing, travelling, craft beer and international cuisines.
Chris Morris Member
Chris worked for 33 years in the Industrial Marketplace. The last position he held was Vice President of Sales for a large International manufacturing company.
Chris Morris Member
Chris worked for 33 years in the Industrial Marketplace. The last position he held was Vice President of Sales for a large International manufacturing company. Chris currently volunteers in Orion’s STARS program and participates in the technology team. He holds a BSME from the Pennsylvania State University and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Portland. Chris and his family have lived in the Phoenixville area since 1996.
Chris enjoys spending time with his family and friends. His hobbies include playing pickleball and taking yoga classes at the Phoenixville YMCA. Chris and his family also enjoy hiking in our national parks, skiing, and spending time in the Pacific Northwest.
Chris is looking forward to helping Orion Communities reach their strategic goals by deploying appropriate technology as they continue servicing their increasing caseload.
Greg Smith Board Member
Greg is a retired Social Worker with 30+ year of experience helping others in need.
Greg Smith Board Member
Greg is a retired Social Worker with 30+ year of experience helping others in need.
After graduating from Phoenixville High School and Montgomery County Community College (where he was bestowed the 1986 Achievement Award), Greg graduated from West Chester University with a Bachelor's Degree in Social Work.
He is one of the oldest known survivors of the rare, genetic bone disorder Osteogenisis Imperfecta, sustaining hundreds of broken bones from childhood until adolescence.
Born and raised in beautiful Phoenixville, Greg is loving life with his gorgeous wife Holly, and their two adorable dogs, Bud and Katie. Greg's upcoming memoir, titled "An Unbreakable Spirit," will be published this year. It's a true story of hope, humor and honesty, wheeling through life with brittle bones.
For fun, Greg is a true Philadelphia sports fan (through the good and the bad times, mostly bad), and an avid listener to music. When able he likes to attend ballgames and concerts. He plays a mean game of Words with Friends.
Art Munson Emeritus
Art has worked and volunteered with non-profit organizations across the USA for over 50 years!
Art Munson Emeritus
Art has worked and volunteered with non-profit organizations across the USA for over 50 years! Art joined Orionʼs Board in December 2014, serving as Treasurer but he's equally known in the office for his sense of humor and baking snicker doodles. Art's distinct perspective as an engineer and organization leader has been essential to rebuilding Orion into the successful organization that now serves the needs of so many people.
He and his wife Jean love to travel by car, especially in Olive, the family Miata.
Larry Way Emeritus
Larry worked as an accountant for three years, and after achieving his CPA designation, began a 35-year career with a diversified manufacturing company in the areas of finance and general management.
Larry Way Emeritus
Board member Larry Way worked as an accountant for three years for a large auditing firm, and after achieving his CPA designation, Larry began a 35-year career with a diversified manufacturing company in the areas of finance and general management. For the last 13 years he has been a member of the Board of Directors of a regional bank and chairs its Audit Committee.
Larry graduated from Rutgers University and Mount St. Mary's College. He teaches ESL to members of the Phoenixville Spanish-speaking community and is a regular platelet donor.
Larry enjoys spending time with his family, and his hobbies include exercise, particularly swimming and hand cycling, as well as travel and reading.
Glenn Moses Emeritus
Glenn started his relationship with Orion back in 1991 when Orion helped him get his first job as part of a program to help people with disabilities secure employment.
Glenn Moses Emeritus
Glenn started his relationship with Orion back in 1991 when Orion helped him get his first job as part of a program to help people with disabilities secure employment. Glenn explains things were different back then, he didn’t start school until he was 11 years old because the schools didn’t know how to support a student in a wheelchair.
Many things have changed since then. Glenn has a powered ’all terrain’ wheelchair that allows him to go participate in virtually any activity including two of his favorites - camping and attending outdoor concerts. One of his favorite trips was to scenic Jackson Hole, Wyoming.
Glenn has been on Orion’s Board for over 10 years and can be found volunteering at the front desk on Thursdays and Fridays.