Bienvenido, I’m Melanie! I grew up a city girl from Chicago and spent summers in Puerto Rico visiting family. My family and I have made Elgin our home for the last ten years. Our household is filled with the joy and chaos of two wonderful kids, three playful and lively dogs, many tropical fish and my best friend/husband of over 20 years. In my free time, I love using my Cricut to create fun craft projects for loved ones, trying new foods/restaurants and vacationing anywhere on a beach!
My journey into nonprofit work began in 2008, coinciding with the birth of our son, who required a series of heart surgeries for his congenital heart defect. During this period, I transitioned my career from the medical field to the nonprofit sector. Over the years, I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside and learning from many dedicated volunteers. When I interviewed at Marklund in 2023, I instantly recognized that it was the perfect match for my passion and skills. I was truly inspired by the community atmosphere and the commitment of the staff. I feel honored to be part of this team, working with current volunteers and recruiting new dedicated individuals.