Get to Know the Team Behind HLC
At Hope Loves Company, we are proud to have a dedicated team whose combined years of experience, passion, and expertise make our mission possible. Get to know the people behind our organization who are committed to serving the ALS community and making a difference in the lives of families affected by this disease.
Summer Owen
Chief Executive Officer
Summer Owen is the Chief Executive Officer of Hope Loves Company and brings more than 15 years of nonprofit leadership and development experience to the organization. Her background includes leadership roles with Special Olympics and a Qualified Health Center in California, where she specialized in fundraising, strategic partnerships, and community impact. She is passionate about building meaningful support systems for children and families navigating complex challenges.
Jodi O'Donnell-Ames
Strategic Relations Advisor
A powerful advocate and visionary leader, Jodi is the founder of Hope Loves Company. As a certified teacher, author, and wellness coach, she has dedicated her life to helping families navigate the challenges of ALS. She is the celebrated author of two books, "The Stars that Shine" and "Someone I Love has ALS," and her tireless efforts have earned her national recognition, including being named a "Hero Among Us" by People Magazine.
Linda Sermons
Head of Camp HLC
A mission-driven leader and a native of Mississippi, Linda brings both strategic vision and hands-on expertise to Hope Loves Company. As the founder of The RED Outlook, she provides strategic solutions and impactful consulting to organizations. In her role at HLC, she passionately applies this experience to ensure the organization's programs create a meaningful and lasting impact on the families they serve.
Maggie DeMarco
Head of Strategic Program Growth
Maggie is a passionate advocate and caregiver whose experience supporting her father through his journey with familial ALS shaped her purpose. Her work has included speaking at national events, advocating on Capitol Hill for ALS and FTD research, and building a supportive online community. A trained chef and former Executive Director of a nonprofit, she brings a unique blend of personal experience, leadership, and heartfelt empathy to her role.
Kimberly McCullough
Finance and Data Administrator
Kimberly is a highly organized and experienced full-charge Bookkeeper. As a Partner at the Cynergy Group and President of Facilicare Solutions, she has a proven history of managing all financial operations, from payroll to general ledger. She has a unique blend of financial acumen and technical skills, including her contributions to the development of custom software and administrative solutions.