There is an amazing team of people who work to make all that Home Start does possible, including our board members who are so generous with their time and talents. We’d like to introduce you to one of our newer members, Toni McMahon, who has been with us almost a year and we are so thrilled at her enthusiasm and dedication to Home Start’s Mission.
Hello Toni, thank you for taking the time to share some of your Home Start thoughts and experiences with us.
Why don’t you tell us a little bit about yourself.
I’m the Regional Marketing Manager at Fuscoe Engineering. Marketing is my expertise. I am well networked in the land development, design, and construction industries. My hobby is cooking and entertaining guests. My favorite movie is Princess Bride. I have a husband of 30+ years and we have two children, a son who is 21 and a daughter who is 16. We have 3 pets – 2 Aussies named Shelby and Ruby and one cat named Romeo.
You already sound pretty busy. So, tell us how you came to join the Home Start Board of Directors.
Jennifer Litwak (a fellow board member) and I were having coffee and Home Start come up in conversation. The more I heard the more I became interested. I firmly believe that good family experiences allow children to thrive and be happy.
“I believe Home Start’s most important role is the focus on teaching parents how to parent and how to earn a living. “
Have you had any specifically inspirational experiences with Home Start?
I met a Home Start client, Kassandra, at a board dinner. We sat across from one another. I heard her story and asked many questions to better understand her situation when she entered the program. Kassandra made a deep impression on me and her success story brought me to tears. I will do whatever I can to help those like Kassandra.
Kassandra is amazing and a great example of what Home Start can do for families.
You’ve also joined our Marketing Committee, which is greatly appreciated given your background. Do you have any goals in mind?
I hope to be a valuable member of the Marketing Committee and Board of Directors. My hope is that my contribution will help us reach goals and set new ones. Here is an opportunity to help people help themselves while their children thrive in a secure and safe home.
And, you’ve already made strides toward those goals haven’t you?
I was able to establish Home Start as our chosen charity at Fuscoe Engineering, (my employer). This means we will cut a check at the end of every year supporting Home Start. In 2019 we donated $1500. Also, I am a board member at my church’s Women’s Auxiliary, and they were thrilled to have a “housewarming party” for our moms and kids. This donation was made up of over 100 brand new items for a new home…. from towels and sheets to small appliances. This happened after Kassandra and Laura, Home Start’s CEO, spoke to our group. Laura’s passion shines when she speaks about Home Start and Kassandra is proof that the program works.
We are so appreciative of the efforts you’ve made and to have you on the Home Start team. We look forward to continuing to work with you and to help even more vulnerable families in San Diego together. Thank you!