|
"My motivation comes from a simple belief: when we listen to people and value their experiences, real change becomes possible. My work is about creating pathways that help families overcome obstacles and build the futures they envision."
Mark Polega serves as the Executive Director of Mid Michigan Community Action Agency, bringing 18 years of progressive leadership across finance, operations, grants, and communications. Guided by lived experience and a strong passion for the mission of Community Action, he has strengthened organizational infrastructure, stabilized operations, and fostered a collaborative leadership culture. Mark is committed to creating pathways for families facing barriers and advocating for community-level solutions that address the causes and conditions of poverty. He holds both a Master of Public Administration and a Master of Science in Administration from Central Michigan University, along with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. |
|
"Working with families through programs like Early Head Start and WIC, I get to see children and parents build stronger, healthier futures together. That kind of change is powerful, and it’s what keeps me going."
Amyee coordinates programs that take a comprehensive approach to helping families succeed. She oversees Early Head Start and WIC and brings over 17 years of experience in family support services, advocating for wraparound solutions that build stability and opportunity. |
|
"I love the work I do because it truly changes lives, and I get to support the people who make that impact possible every day. It’s incredibly meaningful to help build a culture where staff feel valued, supported, and empowered to serve our community well. Knowing that strong people practices directly strengthen our mission makes this role more than a job, it’s a purpose."
Courtney oversees HR operations to ensure a supportive and inclusive workplace. With 8 years of experience in human resources, she fosters staff development and helps the organization grow by putting people first. |
|
"When someone walks into a warm home after we’ve finished work, it means more than comfort; it means dignity, safety, and peace of mind. That’s what fuels my passion for this work every single day."
Johnny manages energy-saving programs that help households lower utility bills and improve safety. With certifications including a Builder’s License and bringing 8 years of experience in energy efficiency, he works to ensure homes across our region are safe, warm, and cost-effective. |
|
"Every strategy, partnership, and program is stronger when the people most impacted help shape the solutions."
Eva leads outreach strategies and community initiatives to connect people with the support they need and administers our homeless programs. A proud Certified Community Action Professional, Eva is dedicated to lifting the voices of low‑income people. With 17 years of experience in social services, she builds awareness and trust throughout the communities we serve. |
|
"The most rewarding part of my job is watching our teams meet people where they are and offer real, personal support. Every day brings a new opportunity to help someone take the next step forward."
Cherri leads a team dedicated to helping individuals and families connect with essential resources through our Community Action Centers, with a strong focus on housing stability and preventing the loss of home ownership. She also oversees our Housing Counseling programs, providing education and guidance on topics such as building credit, preparing to buy a home, and preventing foreclosure. In addition, Cherri directs The Cat’s Meow Thrift Store, which offers affordable clothing and household items while generating discretionary funds to support community members who might otherwise fall through the cracks. With 15 years of experience, Cherri brings deep knowledge of direct services and a strong commitment to building programs that meet people where they are. |
|
"Every time I walk into a classroom and see a child learning, laughing, and growing, I’m reminded why this work matters. I believe in early education because I’ve seen firsthand how it transforms lives."
Stephanie leads the Head Start Preschool program, focusing on early education and family engagement. With 20 years in early childhood education, she is dedicated to nurturing children’s growth and school readiness. |
