Handmade for Heroes, Inc.

A way to give back to our Heroes...
past, present & future

Team Biographies

 

Our volunteers are among the most dedicated and committed folks we know. It would be our pleasure to introduce you to our family, also known as our Founders, Board of Directors and Liaisons.  

Our Board of Directors are not on a pay roll, this is an all volunteer position with no pay involved.  This has been written into the 501(c)3 application with the IRS.


Gail Reader
Treasurer & Co-Founder

Gail is the daughter of a Career Army Father and is the mom of three; two children proudly serving.  Her son serves in the US Army and daughter serves in the US Marines.  She works full time and enjoys crafting of all kinds.  Gail saw that her hobbies are a way to give back to our Heroes and their families.

Over the years, Gail has given a lot of her time and crafting skills to other non profit organizations, locally and nationally. Her willingness to honor our Heroes is admired by many.

Gail lives in Washington State with her husband and their three cats! 

You can contact Gail by emailing her at [email protected]


LouAnn Payne
President/Secretary 

LouAnn is the daughter of a Korean War Veteran.  She has 2 grown children and resides in Upstate New York, with her husband Tim, 2 horses, 1 dog and 2 cats. LouAnn works full time at Syracuse University, where as part of her job she does background work for a Veterans Writing Group. Her love of crafts started as a child and luckily had a mom who encouraged and fed that love.  “To this day, I do not remember a time in my life that I have not had some kind of a craft going” LouAnn has also done a lot of volunteer work over the years.  “This kind of organization is so needed, and giving back is what it is all about!”  Send LouAnn a message by emailing [email protected]

Neal Baker
Member of the Board of Directors/Talent Acquisition/Webmaster
Neal has served 19 years in the US Army holding positions in planning, oversight, training in digital operations, and recruiting. He is the son of a West Point graduate and has three children by his wife. Neal saw combat in OIF as a member of the Army’s first RSTA Squadron in the Army’s first Stryker Brigade Combat Team serving in Baghdad, Tal Afar, Mosul, and the vast expanse of the western desert. He currently serves with the world’s only air assault division in operations with a retirement date of early 2016. 
As a leader, Neal uses his experience to aid all service members and their families grasp the nuances of military life.
Contact Neal by emailing [email protected]
Megan Wiley
Member of the Board of Directors
Megan has served her country in the US Marines for over five years. As part of her dedication to her country, her community, and her brothers and sisters in arms, she has taken on an active role with Handmade For Heroes.
Upholding the attributes and accolades the Marines, Megan continues her service through this organization as an asset to this team. Her talents will ensure the continuation of service and success in this endeavor. 
Having lead more than 60 Marines, Megan is a tenacious, driven individual that has the motivation, willpower and courage to make the right call at the right time for those she is serving and those who seek help.
Contact Megan by emailing [email protected]  
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