American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps
Member Biographical Sketches
AmeriCorps National Members Assigned to Call to Service Corps Consortium Member Organizations
Justin Chattoo is an AmeriCorps National Member assigned to USACares (KY) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In his assignment as a Veterans Resource Coordinator, Justin helps servicemembers, veterans and their families work through financial hardships. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Justin held positions as a medical readiness coordinator for the U.S. Department of Defense. Justin holds an Associate’s degree in criminal justice from John Jay College of Criminal Justice. Justin is a veteran of the United States Marine Corps.
Christine Friis is an AmeriCorps National member assigned to Operation Homefront (MD) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as a Special Event Coordinator, Christine assists the Director of Special Events in supporting direct service and morale events organized and delivered by Operation Homefront. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Christine held positions in event planning with Arcadia University’s Community Service Office. Christine has served with the Pennsylvania Scholars in Service program and received an AmeriCorps education award for her service. Christine holds a Bachelor of Arts in history and creative writing from Arcadia University.
Taneeshna Herrington is an AmeriCorps National member assigned to Operation Homefront (CA) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as an OH Village program assistant, Taneeshna organizes special events for the military families residing at the Southern California Cal OH Village site; researches resources for families in the Southern California area, to include schools and community programs; prepares resource binders that will be located in each apartment for families as they move into their apartments; prepares resident profiles of each family transitioning into the Village; assists in monthly inspections and inventories; and recruits and retains volunteers for the Village. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Taneeshna held positions in community outreach, counseling, and development with Amnity Foundation and Eastside Recovery Homes. Taneeshna holds a High School Diploma from Colton Unified School District.
Deborah Hoselton is an AmeriCorps National member assigned to Operation Homefront (TX) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as a morale programs Assistant, Deborah is responsible for assisting on all servicemember/family morale activities of the organization. Prior to joining the ALA Call to Service Corps, Deborah held positions in advocacy, case management, and others, all with the goal of assisting others to obtain an optimal quality of life. Deborah holds a Master of Arts in counseling.
Jason Kennedy is an AmeriCorps National member assigned to USA Cares (KY) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In his assignment as a veterans resource coordinator, Jason assists veterans in accessing employment and financial assistance resources and services. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Jason held positions in the Kentucky National Guard, United States Physical and Fiscal Office Central Issue Facility. Jason holds an Associate's degree in criminal justice. He is working toward a Bachelor of Social Work. Jason is a veteran of the Kentucky Army National Guard. He is a member of American Legion Post 114 in Elizabethtown, Kentucky.
Sarah Kline is an AmeriCorps National member assigned to Operation Homefront (MD) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as an OH Village program assistant, Sarah organizes special events for the military families residing at the Suburban Maryland Village site; researches resources for families in the suburban Maryland area, to include schools and community programs; prepares resource binders that will be located in each apartment for families as they move into their apartments; prepares resident profiles of each family transitioning into the Village; assists in monthly inspections and inventories; and recruits and retains volunteers for the Village. Sarah holds an Associate's degree from Frederick Community College. She is completing her Bachelor's degree in mass communications and communication studies at Towson University.
Brandy Lawrence is an AmeriCorps National member assigned to Operation Homefront (TX) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as a OH Village program assistant, Brandy assists in strengthening the transitional housing and supportive services that OH provides to wounded warriors and their families through OH Village sites. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Brandy held positions in management with the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Milwaukee, Public Allies, and AmeriCorps VISTA. Brandy holds a Master of Science in management from Cardinal Stritch University.
Shelby Mathis is an AmeriCorps National member assigned to Operation Homefront (TX) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as marketing specialist, Shelby reviews current marketing materials and recommends and makes improvements; and reviews materials for compliance with OH brand guidelines. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Shelby held a position in graphic design as a freelance graphic designer. Shelby volunteers with USO and American Red Cross. Shelby holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in graphic design from the University of Central Missouri. Shelby is the spouse of an active duty servicemember.
Kristine Maurer is an AmeriCorps National member assigned to Operation Homefront (TX) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as a programs assistant, Kristine interacts with clients to determine eligibility for emergency financial assistance, car repair, furniture, food assistance, computers and communications, vehicle donations, home, and appliance repairs. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Kristine held volunteer positions as treasurer and Family Readiness Group leader with 2/77 Field Artillery, 704th BSB C Company and 4ID 4BDG HHC. Kristine holds a Bachelor of Social Work from Western Kentucky University.
Simmone Quesnell is an AmeriCorps National member assigned to the National Military Family Association (VA) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as content specialist, Simmone assists the Association's communication department by gathering resources and editing content to map military family life resources, services, and events. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Simmone held positions in marketing for a variety of independent literary journals. Simmone holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Washington State University.
Vince Watson is an AmeriCorps National member assigned to Operation Homefront (TX) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In his assignment as volunteer member coordinator, Vince manages individuals interested in offering their time and assistance to support our country’s deployed and wounded servicemembers and their families through OH programs. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Vince was a program grant manager for the American Red Cross, providing financial assistance to servicemembers and their families affected by deployment to Iraq and Afghanistan. He owned and operated his own business providing experiential marketing programs and platforms for national consumer goods and power sports companies. Vince is currently developing a power sports training program for wounded veterans. He is also active in community organizations including Boy Scouts of America, and American Red Cross disaster relief. Vince is working toward his Bachelor of Science in multi-discipline from Liberty University. Vince is a 27-year veteran of the United States Air Force, specializing in recruiting.
Michelle Winning Cade is an AmeriCorps National member assigned to the National Military Family Association (VA) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as an AmeriCorps member for the Association's government relations and volunteer services departments, Michelle develops and improves accessibility of web content for volunteers; develops, implements, and analyzes data from Association surveys; and contributes articles on volunteering and current military family topics to Association publications. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Michelle held positions in retail as an executive team leader with Target Corporation. Michelle was involved in a community service sorority, Chi Delta Alpha, at Virginia Tech, completing over 150 community service hours per semester. Michelle holds a Bachelor of Arts in public and urban affairs from Virginia Tech. Michelle’s grandfather is a veteran of the United States Navy.
AmeriCorps VISTA Members Assigned to Call to Service Corps Consortium Member Organizations
Tyler Anger is an AmeriCorps VISTA team leader assigned to American Legion Auxiliary National Headquarters (DC) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In his assignment as team leader, Tyler is responsible for assisting the Call to Service Corps project in the areas of Member progress reporting, Member experience, and program publicity. Prior to his current position, Tyler served in the Call to Service Corps as a VISTA Member assigned to the Community Blueprint Network. He has held positions in online marketing with the Sponge Community Building Blog and with Wells Fargo. Tyler worked with the Sage Mentorship Program, a student-run initiative designed to aid students in low-income elementary schools. Tyler holds a Bachelor's degree from the University of California, Berkeley. His father is an active duty servicemember.
Lindy Capps is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to American Legion Auxiliary Department of Missouri (MO) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as a field site representative, Lindy strengthens current and develops new mission outreach activities of the Department. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Lindy served as a volunteer coordinator with the AmeriCorps Volunteer Infrastructure Project (VIP) at Volunteer San Diego. She held this position from August 2010 to August 2011 and served as the program leader during the last eight months. Lindy holds a Bachelor of Arts in history and sociology from University of California, San Diego. Lindy serves in honor of her father, who is an Army veteran of the Vietnam War and both of her grandfathers, who were Army and Navy veterans of World War II.
James Casey is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to The Mission Continues (MO) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In his assignment as a Western service project associate, James challenges veterans to serve and lead in Western communities, through supervision of fellowship capstone service projects and veteran recruitment of service projects. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, James held positions in program development, project management, veteran’s advocacy, and community awareness with The Mission Continues, Veterans of Foreign Wars, and Phi Theta Kappa. James is currently working toward his bachelor's degree in English education from St. Louis University. James is a veteran of the US Army Reserves. James is a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars and alumni of The Mission Continues Fellowship Program.
Mark Cernak is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to Military Spouse Corporate Career Network (VA) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In his assignment as a training and military applicant specialist, Mark assists in planning, development and implementation of a training platform for military spouses and veterans seeking employment. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Mark held positions in grant reviewing/facilitating, transportation, and labor relations with numerous Federal agencies. He worked until retirement in the railroad industry. Mark has previously served as a VISTA member with the Business Resource Group from 2004-2005. Mark holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Science in business administration from Old Dominion University. Mark is a veteran of the United States Army. Mark is a member of the Disabled Americans Veterans, Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States, Paralyzed Veterans of America, and Honor and Remember.
Ian Crawford is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to ServiceNation (DC) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In his assignment as a project coordinator, Ian organizes the annual observance of Mission Serve Veterans Day 2012: A Call to Service, develops the State Veterans Corps pilot program and works to strengthen the current portfolio of Mission Serve programs, such as Got Your 6. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Ian held positions in broadcast journalism with KUT and KLBJ Radio in Austin, Texas. He has also been active with Congregation Kol Halev in Austin, Texas and with University Day activities at the University of Oregon. Ian holds Bachelor of Arts degrees in philosophy and political science from the University of Oregon. Ian’s father served in the military following World War II, and his mother served as a Navy corpsman during the Korean War.
Patricia Godsey is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to Still Serving Veterans (AL) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her second-term VISTA assignment as information technology specialist, Patricia provides IT support, maintains the SSV website and deploys social media. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Patricia held an administrative position in commercial real estate. Patricia holds a Bachelor of Science from Macon State College.
Laura Haltom is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to Blue Star Families (NC) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as a membership and volunteer outreach coordinator, Laura is responsible for increasing the volunteer and membership communities in order to further the mission of Blue Star Families. Laura holds a Bachelor of Science in political science from the United States Naval Academy. Laura is a veteran of the United States Navy. Laura is the spouse of an active duty servicemember.
Chelsea Hepburn is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to Tennessee’s Community Assistance Corporation (TN) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment to TCAC’s Making Veterans Priority program, Chelsea focuses on supporting and expanding MVP, a statewide veteran’s assistance program. Chelsea is developing an online database of services and programs that will provide direct support to military families and veterans; assisting TCAC in raising funds and/or obtaining donations for MVP; and teaching others how to use the program. During college, she regularly served at the Elmore County Food Pantry in Wetumpka, Ala. Chelsea holds a Bachelor of Arts in history with a religion minor from Huntingdon College. Both her parents are in the Alabama National Guard. Her father served in both Desert Storm and Operation Iraqi Freedom.
Morgan Hickman is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to The Mission Continues (MO) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as a fellowship program recruitment coordinator, Morgan recruits veterans to apply to become Mission Continues Fellows, challenging our nation's veterans to serve and lead in communities across America. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Morgan held positions in sales and academic coaching with Emmis Communications and the University of Missouri St. Louis R.I.T.E. Program. Morgan has volunteered with organizations such as Big Brother Big Sister, Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri, Project Uplift and STRYE St. Louis. Morgan holds a Bachelor of Science in business administration from the University of Missouri-Columbia and is currently working toward a Master of Business Administration at the University of Missouri-St. Louis.
Linda Mclain is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to the American Legion Auxiliary Department of New Mexico (NM) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as a field site representative, Linda assists with developing and implementing training resources, technical assistance and strategies to mobilize Legion family members and other community members to address poverty among veterans and the military community. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps Linda held management and training positions with Simply Fashions, CVS Pharmacy and American Express. Linda has attended Arizona Business Institute of Business Technology, Phoenix Community College and the University of Phoenix, where she majored in business management. Linda’s husband is a veteran of the United States Army and the New Mexico National Guard.
Alyssa Meza is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to Student Veterans of America (DC) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as a communications and outreach coordinator, Alyssa assists in chapter development and recruitment, and supports SVA’s communication and programming efforts. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Alyssa held positions in communications and advocacy with the Northwestern University Women’s Center, and as president and publicity chair of her university’s Amnesty International chapter. Alyssa holds a Bachelor of Science in journalism from Northwestern University.
Bianca Nafpliotis is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to the Military Spouse Corporate Career Network (VA) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as a career corps program manager, Bianca develops and implements MSCCN’s volunteer program to match career mentors to military spouses and veterans seeking employment. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Bianca held positions in education and project management with organizations such as universities and private tutoring schools. Bianca holds a Master of Business Administration from the Technical University of Cluj in Cluj-Napoca, Romania. Bianca is a spouse of an active duty servicemember.
Emma Scherer-Mueller is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to Student Veterans of America (DC) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as outreach coordinator, Emma Scherer-Mueller supports SVA chapters at colleges and universities across the nation through development and implementation of a social media communications plan. She will also provide support to SVA’s new employment initiative, Student Veteran Success Corps. Emma holds a Bachelor of Arts in politics from the University of California Santa Cruz.
Michelle Vaughn is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to Blue Star Families (DC) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as Operation Honor Cards program coordinator, Michelle develops the program, refines the brand, and maintains daily operations. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Michelle interned for a Member of Congress and with the United States State Department in the public affairs section of the Embassy in Panama. In 2012, Michelle taught human rights with the organization Helsinki-Espana and volunteered at a bilingual afterschool program in Madrid, Spain. Michelle holds Bachelors of Arts in psychology and Spanish language and literature from the University of California, Santa Barbara. Michelle's father, as well as several of her uncles, cousins, and close friends have all served, or are currently serving, in the military.
Taylor Yehling is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to The Mission Continues (MO) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as a communications coordinator, Taylor develops and distributes all branded marketing materials, signage and merchandise, and assists with social media, marketing and public relations. Taylor holds a Bachelor's in communication and psychology from the University of Missouri.
AmeriCorps VISTA Members Assigned to the Community Blueprint Network
Terrence Cabiao is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to the Community Blueprint Network at the United Way of King County (WA) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In his assignment as a Community Blueprint field organizer, Terrence is responsible for engaging with the military community and helping veterans utilize the resources available to them. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Terrence held positions in emergency management, private security, environmental justice, project management and student leadership with organizations such as Western Washington University (WWU) Communication Department, WWU Ethnic Student Center, RE-Sources for Sustainable Communities and ABM Security Services. Terrence holds a Bachelor of Arts from Western Washington University.
Melissa Focarelli is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to the Community Blueprint Network at Valdosta Veterans First (GA) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as the program coordinator for the Valdosta, GA Community Blueprint initiative, Melissa works to transition servicemembers to civilian life after years of honorable military service. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Melissa served in the United States Navy. She also completed previous AmeriCorps terms from 2005-2007 in Philadelphia and New Orleans. Melissa holds a Bachelor of Arts in international studies from Arcadia University. Melissa serves currently in the United States Navy Reserve. She is a member of the Fleet Reserve Association USN/USMC/USCG.
Jessica Fowler is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to the Community Blueprint Network at HandsOn Jacksonville (FL) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as a community projects coordinator for Veterans Engagement and Service Blueprint, Jessica engages military veterans, servicemembers and their families in meaningful volunteer activities that help alleviate poverty in the urban core of Jacksonville, Fla. and support the local military community. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Jessica held a position in marketing with Lifetime Family Wellness Centers. Jessica holds a Bachelor of Science in marketing from the University of Connecticut. She is the spouse of an active duty servicemember. Jessica serves as the ombudsman for her husband’s command, supports the command Enlisted Spouse Club events and has spent time volunteering at the Naval Air Station Jacksonville USO Center.
Casey Guillory is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to the Community Blueprint Network at Volunteer Fairfax (VA) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as a Stars, Stripes and Service program coordinator, Casey develops and implements topical content, support tools, project infrastructure and community decision-making structures and processes to execute the Community Blueprint in Fairfax County, Va. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Casey held positions in health and food service fields with Mercy Region Medical Center and Oaklane Wellness and Rehabilitation Center. She also served her community with organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club, Woodman of the World and her community’s local youth group. Casey holds a Master of Science from McNeese State University. Her father was a staff sergeant in the National Guard.
Christina Hicks is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to Community Blueprint at Give an Hour (NC) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as a Community Blueprint organizer Christina develops the action plan to better educate the Fayetteville community about the specific needs of the military and their families. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Christina held positions in community development and service through MOPS International.
Michelle Lee is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to the Community Blueprint Network at the Delaware State Office of Volunteerism (DE) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as a Community Blueprint Network coordinator, Michelle coordinates resources and services that better respond to the strengths and needs of the military community in Delaware. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Michelle held positions in customer service with Wesley College, Verizon, Discover Card and FedEx. Michelle’s previous community service experiences have included positions in community leadership, customer service, advocacy and program development for organizations such as the Dover Human Relations Commission, Delaware State Parent Advisory Council, Rodel and USO Dover Air Force Base. Michelle holds a Master of Public Administration and a Master of Human Resources from Wilmington University.
Ruby Liang is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to the Military Officers Association of America (VA) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as a Community Blueprint Network support specialist, Ruby coordinates MOAA national level support and communications to three current MOAA Community Blueprint pilot sites. In addition, she provides information to chapters responding to MOAA national efforts to initiate additional sites nationwide. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Ruby held positions with the Peace Corps and the Department of Homeland Security. Ruby holds a Bachelor's degree in political science from the University of California, San Diego.
Ronnie Miley is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to the Community Blueprint Network at Volunteer Macon (GA) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In his assignment as project development specialist, Ronnie increases the number of volunteer projects focused on veterans and in engaging veterans as volunteers. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Ronnie held positions in law enforcement, funeral services and mortuary science. He is a commander of a Disabled American Veterans chapter and chaplain at a VA medical center. Ronnie holds Bachelor’s degrees in business administration and theology. Ronnie is a veteran of the United States Army and the United States Coast Guard.
Anna Morgan is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to the Community Blueprint Network at Still Serving Veterans (AL) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as a Community Blueprint outreach coordinator, Anna develops and implements topical content, support tools, project infrastructure, and community decision making structures and processes to execute the community blueprint. She is the point person to increase awareness and assist Still Serving Veterans while identifying organizations and building relationships in order to effectively build a cohesive veteran-friendly community. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Anna held positions in public relations, fundraising, community organization, and training. Anna holds a Master of Management degree with concentration in acquisitions and contract management from Florida Institute of Technology. She is the spouse of an active duty servicemember.
Whitney Towns is an AmeriCorps VISTA member assigned to the Community Blueprint Network at Delaware State Office of Volunteerism (DE) through the American Legion Auxiliary Call to Service Corps. In her assignment as a Community Blueprint coordinator, Whitney develops and implements topical content, enhances recruitment resources, and assists with events that provide awareness about poverty alleviation for military servicemembers, veterans and families. Prior to joining the Call to Service Corps, Whitney served in the AmeriCorps program as a Youth Ambassador/ Mentor Coordinator for Connecting Generations Inc., in Wilmington, Del. Whitney holds a Bachelor of Arts in media arts/marketing from Wesley College.