Mary Dean, Co-Site Director                             

Born and raised in California, my family moved to Bend in 2000. I have a degree in Elementary Education and have taught preschool through second grade. Currently, I am a part time teacher at Mudpies and Lullabies preschool here in Bend. My involvement with the BVC began in May 2008 as  Co-Program Director.

In this capacity, I helped plan orientation week, several retreats, and  provided the volunteers with a variety of different spiritual “opportunities” to both challenge and deepen their experience as a Bend Volunteer. Since our partnership with Notre Dame Mission Volunteers AmeriCorps, my role has shifted to Co-Program Director. As you can tell by both titles, I am most fulfilled doing this work in conjunction with another person's spirit and energy. Together with Kristin, we are here to support each member as they journey throughout the year here in Bend.

In moving to Bend, my husband and I have definitely found what were were looking for in the way of outdoor activities, a more meaningful pace to life, and a community with whom we share interests and values. We very much enjoy the opportunity NDMVA/BVC gives our family to connect with people who share our passions and interests. Our daughters (Bridget – 13 and Maddie – 11) have always been in awe of each group of volunteers, as are we. The community created by all of these people coming together to serve those in need is truly where God is revealed to me.

Kristin Meagher, Co-Site Director                     

Prior to the partnership with Notre Dame Mission Volunteers/Americorps in 2009, I had been involved with the BVC for 3 years as the Agency Liaison, which involved soliciting non-profit agencies that provide direct services to the economically disadvantaged in Central Oregon.

Now as a Co-Program Director, I, together with Mary Dean, am responsible for all aspects of running this service program in Bend.
 
We solicit agency partners, recruit and manage the members, hold training events, manage partnering site agreements and collect fees. Along with the Bend Volunteer Community, we support the members in any way we can. I am inspired by the work that is done at each of these agencies and enjoy getting to work along side the amazing young people that have moved to Bend for a year to serve the less fortunate in our community.

My husband, Tom and I and our three children moved to Bend in 2003 and love the Central Oregon lifestyle. We take advantage of all the outdoor activities this beautiful, dry climate has to offer. We were looking for a spiritual, service-oriented way to feel connected to our new community and that is how we became involved with the BVC.
 
We believe by simplifying our lives we are able to see more, feel more and be more.