It’s been 35 years since we first opened our doors at John Paul II Center and in that time, we’ve worked together with our community to help support our students and adults.

Continuing on with that tradition, we would like to introduce Melissah Jablonski as our new Director of Advancement. Many of you may know Melissah, but for those who don’t, here’s the scoop….

JPII: Melissah, could you give us a background on your education?

Melissah: I earned my BA in journalism from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. I’m also a proud Alvernia University Leadership Berks alumna!

JPII: Where have you worked previously?

Melissah: I made the move from the corporate marketing world to the nonprofit sector about 10 years ago. I spent six years as the vice President of Marketing and Development at Berks Encore. I loved spending time with older adults, whether it be by delivering Meals on Wheels or simply visiting with them at one of the agency’s centers. They all have wonderful stories to tell; they just need someone who will listen to them. I then made the switch to raising funds for our youth as the Director of Individual and Alumnae Giving at the Girl Scouts of Eastern Pennsylvania. This position covered the council’s nine counties, so I was able to make new friends throughout southeastern Pennsylvania. I also enjoyed many trips to the Girl Scout camps, where I was able to be adventurous and zip line over a lake!

JPII: Do you remember your first time at John Paul II Center? What was it like?

Melissah: The first time I visited John Paul II Center was when I was the editor of The News of Southern Berks. I wrote a story about the center when it was still located in Reading. Fast-forward a few years to when I completed Leadership Berks. As part of the program, each Leadership Berks graduate was expected to join a nonprofit board or committee for two years. I stopped by the John Paul II Center table and spoke with Mike Mizak about the center and before I knew it, I was a member of the advisory board. Once I rotated off the board I continued on the marketing committee for another year or two.

JPII: What is one thing you would like everyone to know?

Melissah: I look forward to raising awareness and funding for these amazing students and adults. Please contact me if you have any questions or would like to take a tour of our center. I’m sure you will leave inspired.

If you have any questions about giving options at John Paul II Center, feel free to email Melissah by clicking below or calling us at 610-777-0605.