MEET THE TEAM
DANIELLE KELLY
Executive Director
Originally from northwest Montana and a graduate of the University of Montana, I am grateful for the opportunity to come back to Montana and work for such an amazing agency. In addition to my knowledge of the local area and people served, I bring a variety of experience: working with youth of all backgrounds and abilities, managing programs, small business ownership and yes even mentoring!
I originally came to mentoring through a service project in college. At the time, I couldn't have imagined how volunteering as a mentor would lead me to managing a mentoring program in Phoenix, AZ and to this opportunity leading a nationally recognized mentoring program for my local community. I've seen and felt the power of mentoring relationships and know first hand the positive impact these relationships have on Bigs, Littles and our local community.
When not working, my husband and I usually grab our two dogs and get outside to enjoy everything northwest Montana has to offer. I also enjoy reading, cooking, gardening and sustainability.
THOM DUNNEHOFF
Match Support & Enrollment Specialist
Thom is a Montana native and moved to the Flathead Valley circa 1985. He is married to a wonderful Whitefish girl, Kathy, and is gifted with two college-age daughters, Ava and Grace, and a Yorkie named after Tally Lake.
Thom attended Montana State University (B.A. in Sociology) and Washington State University (M.A. in Criminal Justice Administration). He currently teaches Juvenile Justice at FVCC. His work in the Flathead included 25 years as a juvenile probation officer where he served to provide for the varied needs of area youth and families.
In joining the team at Big Brothers and Big Sisters, Thom, who supports the notion that "no significant learning can take place without a significant relationship," looks forward to supporting a caring process for such relationships to begin and flourish. Thom enjoys the quality and beauty of the Flathead area rivers where he patiently practices fly fishing. He also takes advantage of the valley's mountain bike and hiking trails.
SAMANTHA DENNISON
Program Director
My family moved to Missoula after living in NW Washington for 15 years. Originally from the interior of Alaska, I traveled the world in my youth with a backpack and desire to explore. Now settled in Montana, we couldn't be happier with the sense of strong community and beauty of the state.
My BBBS journey started as a mentor in the School Buddies program. Immediately I knew I wanted to be a bigger part of the program and was lucky enough to be hired on. Throughout my 10+ years I have seen the tremendous impact mentoring can have on all parties involved. Each of us can think back to one person who made an impact in their life. I'm full of gratitude to be a part of bringing that impact to children who need it the most.
Mina Schaaf
Match Support & Enrollment Specialist
Mina grew up in the Willamette Valley of Oregon. She first started working in her community in High School where she found her ardor for restorative justice and community mentorship. In the decade since, Mina has gone on to dedicate herself to community service work in conflict resolution, mediation, and mentoring.
Mina’s BBBS journey began in Boston, MA in 2018 as a Big Sister for the Big Sister Association of Greater Boston. Since moving to Missoula, Mina continues to be a Big Sister here at BBBS of NW Montana. Mina is grateful for the experiences that lead her to mentoring opportunities in her community:
“If you asked me what life is about, I’d say that a good chunk of it is mentorship. 1:1 mentorship has had a significant impact on my life, and I aim to pay my positive experiences forward. Mentoring feels like a part of my purpose in this world.”
Outside of BBBS, Mina is an avid year-round outdoors person and enjoys back country hiking/camping and playing disc golf with friends.
Abagail Easter
Match Support & Enrollment Specialist
Abby, originally from Georgia, joined the AmeriCorps program after college. Which moved her to Asheville, North Carolina, where she served at the local Food Bank. And then later working for the local Humane Society. She then took a break from non-profit work after moving to WA state, where she met her partner. After 3 years together they decided to quit their jobs and travel the country in a van for a year.
With their love of the mountains, winter, the outdoors, and small town communities, they decided to settle in Montana. Abby is happy to be back in the non-profit world, serving her local community by creating opportunities for all youth to succeed.
