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Meet the Team
Who We Are
Marcia Holt
Chief Executive Officer
Marcia Holt grew up in Havertown, PA; where she spent her youth playing Field Hockey and getting involved in many High School activities. The “Gay Straight Alliance” (LGBTQ club) stands out for she started and served as President of this alliance. Marcia went on to Albright College where she held a few officer positions in various organizations, including within her class’s student government organization. Due to her major, Marcia had the opportunity to study abroad at the Catholic Institute of Paris, France. This experience left a lasting impact on her. Upon graduating college with a Bachelor’s in Political Science and International Relations; Marcia decided to return to Paris, France for a gap year. During this year long break, Marcia worked as an Au Pair (foreign nanny) for a large family and attended a French language school. Marcia proceeded to attend The American University of Paris where her interest in anti- human trafficking, as an aspect of international organized crime, began. Graduating with a Master’s in Diplomacy and International Law; she was accepted into the International Human Rights Summer Law program at New College, Oxford University, England in the summer of 2018. Her Oxford studies increased her compassion and focus more towards the victims of human rights abuses than ever before. Successfully completing her IHRL program, Marcia decided to indulge in her favorite hobby of travel before returning to the United States. Marcia obtained employment in a large nonprofit organization’s anti-trafficking division before leaving to create Because Organization.
Wendy Burke
Board of Directors
Secretary
Wendy Burke’s communications career began when she took an operator test. At AT&T she studied many different switches and received multiple certifications in administration. Through her 10 years at AT&T she worked up to a management position and learned the meaning of “how can I provide excellent service for you” daily. As AT&T began a service reduction, Wendy moved on to another management position with a worldwide pharmaceutical company. Over 10 years of service, she learned about multiple cultures, customs and multicultural sensitivities while supporting many areas of Telephony within the company. Again, downsizing caused many changes and after 14 years of service as an Internal Telephony Director. she has recently retired from an American provider of entertainment, information and communications products and services.
In Wendy’s personal life she has visited a few different countries; Brazil, France, Monaco, and London where she experienced first-hand the culture and communications. Her large family is also multi- ethnic, and the experience and knowledge of many cultures has served her well in all areas of communication and relations.
wendy.burke@@becauseorganization.org
MaryBeth Ford
Board of Directors
Treasurer
Born and raised in Southwest Philadelphia MaryBeth Ford grew up an athlete and musician where she attended West Catholic Girls High School. Several months after graduation she joined the US Navy where she served towards the end of the Vietnam War as a Radioman for a little over 5 years and was given a Top-Secret clearance working in the Telecommunications field. This opportunity gave her the base to start a lengthy career in Telecommunications engineering and design where she eventually established and ran her own company for almost 20 years. During this time MaryBeth traveled throughout the country working as a Consultant & Project Manager helping many companies grow their businesses in the Healthcare, Financial and Pharmaceutical industries overseeing major real estate installations from Corporate Headquarters, Call Centers as well as Research & Development facilities. Working with local talent and work forces provided her the opportunity to learn about different cultures and lifestyles which she valued as an enrichment to enhance her own professional skill sets and contributions towards her success.
Outside of her professional career MaryBeth volunteered for over 35 years as a youth sports coach and is an avid musician playing many instruments in bands all over the country. This was yet another opportunity for her to learn and contribute to the many environments that she lived in over the course of 25 years before MaryBeth finally settled back in her hometown area of Philadelphia, PA, where she continued her professional career in Telecommunications working for a National Cable Company until December 2022 when she retired to move through her next chapter, including her participation in the Because Organization.
marybeth.ford@@becauseorganization.org
William Cottringer
Chair of the Board of Directors
Co-chair of Governance, Compliance, and Ethics
William Cottringer (Bill) has 50+ professional training, education and work experience in security and correctional management, law enforcement, mental health, human resources and college teaching. Bill recently completed a post-graduate certificate in human capital leadership from the American Military University in updating his earlier credentials with courses in organizational development, organizational behavior, leadership, team building, crisis leadership and ethics. Bill is looking to give back to society for all the knowledge and experience he has gained over the years.
Jill Wassil
Board of Directors
Social Media and Marketing Chair
Jill Wassil is a seasoned marketing leader and active community member with a passion for healthcare, aesthetics, and digital strategy. As Chief Marketing Officer at miraDry, Inc., Jill leads corporate strategy, commercial operations, and global brand marketing for miraDry, the only FDA-cleared medical device offering a permanent solution for underarm sweat, odor, and hair reduction.
Beyond her professional achievements, Jill is deeply committed to her community and family. As an engaged mother, she actively volunteers in local schools, sports, and community programs, embodying empathy, adaptability, and a collaborative spirit. Her volunteer work has enriched her leadership style with qualities like effective communication, community-building, and a genuine commitment to understanding diverse perspectives.
​Kimberly Phillips
Board of Directors
Government, Compliance, and Ethics Co-Chair
Kimberly has participated in many charity events in the past (such as cards for WNY Feed More and various work in the Dominican Republic) but is so excited to dedicate herself to helping human trafficking survivors. Her previous many years of corporate experience will help her bring strategy, transformation, and continuous improvement to the organization. Currently, she is a Senior Vice President and Change Manager at M&T Bank.
She is married to her husband Casey and they have 3 teenagers that they love so much! She also adores her Cavapoo dog ! She loves spending time with her family and friends, learning new things (such as crafting with her Cricut machine), and travelling.
Jane Hurley
Board of Directors
Outreach and Communications Chair
Janie Hurley is an enthusiastic and energetic retired professional who thrives on establishing and sustaining positive relations with friends, family, co-workers and those in her communities. She is a mother/stepmother to 8 adult children and Omi to 14 grandchildren.
I am also a handler for Chase, her therapy dog; She volunteers/visits medical facilities/events and retirement homes to bring smiles and comfort to those she meets. Janie is happily married to her husband, Mark, She lives her life compassionately as a mentor and child of God, attending services and volunteering at The Cove Church in Mooresville, NC.
Each member of our leadership team and board brings unique expertise and a shared commitment to our mission. Together, they guide our strategic direction and ensure we stay true to our values and goals.
We're grateful for their dedication and leadership, which empower us to make a real difference every day.
Thank you for taking the time to get to know the people behind our efforts.