Foundation Staff

Jamey became involved in ALS when helping his best friend who was diagnosed with the disease.  While doing so, he saw how devastating the disease is and became passionate about helping those fighting ALS, their families and caregivers.  A graduate of Eastern University, Jamey developed and managed his own entertainment agency for twenty years before dedicating his career focus to fight ALS in 2014.  

Jamey joined the ALS Hope Foundation in 2018 and his goals in this role at the ALS Hope Foundation are to raise awareness about ALS; to raise funds for care and finding a cure; and serve as an advocate for the ALS community. 

Anne retired from the Norristown Area School District in December 2023 where she worked in the Business Office for over 30 years and served as their CFO from 2004 until her retirement. During her tenure at NASD, she was able to significantly improve the financial position of the District and was able to suggest and implement strategies that provided for stability and growth. 

Her extensive financial experience in the non-profit world has been a great help to our organization as we continue on our current growth path.  Anne is excited to join the ALS Hope Foundation and looks forward to supporting our efforts in many ways!

Kaavya Desai is a graduate of Temple University’s College of Public Health, with minors in Music and Healthcare Management. With experience in education nonprofits and assisted living communities, Kaavya has developed a passion for meaningful community engagement and improving quality of life through compassionate, person-centered care.

She brings a positive attitude, genuine enthusiasm, and a deep commitment to supporting people living with ALS and their families. Kaavya is always happy to answer questions, provide assistance, or simply connect. She is honored to contribute to the mission of the ALS Hope Foundation and looks forward to serving the ALS community.

Ashley joins us with over a decade of experience supporting ALS-focused nonprofit organizations, beginning in 2015. She is excited to expand the mission and presence of ALS Hope throughout the Boston area.

Ashley holds a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and has built her career around a deep commitment to serving others. She has found both purpose and passion in working alongside the ALS community. Her experience spans event planning and execution, direct support for individuals living with ALS and their families, and building meaningful partnerships to increase awareness and drive fundraising efforts.

Ashley is dedicated to advancing the organization’s mission and making a meaningful impact in the lives of those affected by ALS.

Mary Paolone, MSRN is the Clinical Nurse Counselor and Nurse Coordinator at the MDA/ALS Center of Hope. She graduated with a Bachelor of Nursing Degree from Villanova University in 1994, and has been focused in chronic pain and chronic illness for most of her career. While working with these populations, she gained a desire to assist others more deeply as they move along the spectrum of their diseases. Mary continued her education with a Master’s Degree in Counseling Psychology from Chestnut Hill College which has enabled her to remain present and supportive with her patients during difficult times. She states that her “life has been greatly enriched by her work at the Center of Hope” and considers it a blessing and an honor to help in any way she is able.