Here at the Joseph Maley Foundation we are always excited about growth. As we continue to grow, as our programs continue to widen their reach, and as our program partners and schools continue to reach higher numbers, we are acutely aware of the impact that our staff is making through their work. Our growth as a foundation can always be traced back to one of our now fourteen staff members, and whenever that staff grows larger, we want to share our excitement with all of you. In 2019 we have gained a new staff member: Haley Pace. Haley started as an intern for JMF in the fall of 2018, and is now a Program Associate working under our disABILITY Awareness and HOPE programs. Read more to learn about her experience with JMF and why she is excited to be a staff member!

You originally began your time at JMF as an intern, can you speak to your experience, and ultimately what led you to choosing to work at JMF after your internship ended?

As an intern I worked mostly with JMFitness, reaching out to volunteers and working with the athletes during the various sports sessions. Through this I was given the opportunity to see just a small fraction of the impact that JMF is making. I knew then that I wanted to be apart of spreading that impact even further, in any way that I could. Anytime I was asked by someone if I would work at JMF after my internship, my response was always: “I sure hope so.” It just felt right!

What does our mission statement “serving children of all abilities” mean to you?

To me it means that we encourage an all-inclusive environment in every program that we offer.

What has been your favorite memory, so far, with JMF?

My favorite memory so far would be the All-Sports Banquet for JMFitness. Every child received a medal for each sport that they participated in throughout the year. Seeing the pride on each of their faces as they were handed their medals really brought home the message that JMFitness represents: to celebrate the abilities of ALL athletes.

What are you most excited about as you begin the new semester at JMF as a staff member?

I am so excited to be able to work with the different programs that JMF offers, and to be a part of the butterfly effect that is JMF.

How would you describe the work environment at JMF?

The staff at JMF is simply incredible. Everyone is so loving, helpful, and full of patience. I couldn’t of dreamed up a better team to work with.

Finally, what is your “Why JMF”?

When I read the mission statement, “serving children of all abilities” I just knew I had to be apart of this organization. I’ve always been driven to find something that felt important. I wanted to know that whatever I was doing would make an impact. I believe wholeheartedly that JMF is exactly where I belong.