Our Team

Throughout her career, Ellen O’Connor has driven non-profit growth strategies including program development, revenue generation, community partnerships, and brand awareness. Her record of success in positively impacting individuals and the community is fueled by her commitment to helping people improve their lives. She leads team and board development with a focus on service, growth, and financial stability.

In May 2021, she was recognized as one of Orlando Magazine's 2021 Women of the Year. 

For over five years, she helped local non-profits develop and execute organizational growth plans as Principal at McLaughlin O'Connor Consulting. Prior to that, she was CEO of the Apopka Family Learning Center which provides specialized educational and supportive social services to low-income and English as a Second Language families. 

Ellen has held leadership positions on both sides of the nonprofit funding table: working as a Marketing Manager with the McCormick Tribune Foundation on fundraising and local grantmaking as well as being a volunteer Board President. As a marketing executive, she has worked in senior management positions for three leading US media companies: Tribune Company (Sun-Sentinel), Cox Enterprises (The Palm Beach Post), and Bonnier Corporation. 

She has been a volunteer leader for non-profits including the Junior League of Greater Orlando, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Broward County, Broward Community College Foundation, Broward County Library Foundation, Young At Art Children’s Museum, and Meals On Wheels Broward County.

Since 2008, she has served in numerous positions on the Board of Directors for the Central Florida Chapter of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. She is a graduate of Leadership Orlando, Leadership Broward, and Leadership Hollywood.

She graduated from the University of Florida, College of Journalism & Communications, with a B.S. in advertising and a minor in marketing. From the Edyth Bush Institute for Philanthropy & Nonprofit Leadership, she holds training certificates in leadership practice, nonprofit management, proposal writing, and board development.

Grace is a devoted professional with a substantial background in nonprofit program management, holding a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies from Rollins College and a Master of Public Policy in Environmental Policy at Oregon State University.

Her sincere dedication to service was first ignited during her term with AmeriCorps, where she excelled as a Habitat for Humanity Family Services Coordinator. Her exceptional performance led to promotions within Habitat for Humanity, and since then, she has consistently sought out opportunities to make meaningful contributions across various organizations and causes.

Driven by an unwavering passion for effecting positive change, Grace is enthusiastic about channeling her expertise into projects and initiatives that advance social welfare.

In her leisure time, she finds joy in the company of her dog, Jupiter, and indulges in the preparation of delectable vegan cuisine.

Abigail brings over six years of leadership experience to our organization, with a track record of driving operational excellence across diverse industries. Since 2017, she has spearheaded initiatives that optimize workload management, enhance staffing strategies, and implement process improvements to increase efficiency and productivity.

Abigail is a collaborative leader with expertise in developing high-performing teams that communicate effectively and work cohesively toward shared goals. She fosters an environment of open communication, empowerment, and continuous improvement, ensuring the team is well-positioned to achieve outstanding results.

Abigail is deeply passionate about supporting and rehabilitating those affected by serious mental illness. She has volunteered and advocated for community organizations that provide resources, counseling, and assistance to individuals and families struggling with mental health challenges. Abigail's empathy and dedication to this cause stems from her strong belief that mental health is just as vital as physical health.

Abigail cherishes quality time with her two children, aged 3 and 6, outside of work. This dedicated mother and team member prioritizes creating lasting memories through outdoor adventures and activities.