ABOUT US

Leslie Holt

Leslie Holt founded her nonprofit organization because of the loss of her daughter, Lana. Her organization started as The Radar Project, which was later changed to A Child’s Light. Holt now continues to work for A Child’s Light, and is now a certified recovery specialist, certified trauma specialist, and a member of the Drug and Alcohol Council in West Chester.

Harini Balachandar

“As a mom of 2, it is always my top priority to ensure that the environment that my kids are raised in is safe and healthy. I cannot imagine any child not having this as a basic necessity. Unfortunately it is a reality that is hard to control. I have associated myself with ACL knowing that my value aligns with their mission to help children who have been subjected to traumatic conditions and events. In addition to serving the board, my livelihood is around being a learning and development professional in the corporate space. I’m also passionate about business storytelling. I love to learn and share the journey of leaders with the next generation to keep them inspired, educated, and assured that everything is achievable if you have the dream and work to achieve it.”

Jacqueline Hemmer

As the founder and CEO of FitKitty Culture™, Jacqueline has built a brand that not only inspires confidence through sustainable athleisure but also commits 100% of its proceeds to humanitarian and environmental causes. Her commitment to giving back extends beyond her professional life, as she actively supports initiatives that provide safety and healing to children affected by trauma.

A mother of two, Jacqueline brings a nurturing perspective to her work with A Child’s Light, driven by her belief that every child deserves a safe, loving environment and the opportunity to thrive. Her unwavering dedication, compassionate spirit, and visionary leadership make her a vital force in advancing the mission of A Child’s Light.

Shelby Troy

Shelby Troy, an Attorney for the Federal Reserve Bank, is passionate about access to mental health treatment and its significant impact on a person’s life. Her passion was sparked first by her brother’s own mental health struggles and the severe misunderstanding there is surrounding mental health, even in today’s age. Her interest in mental health and its relation to the criminal justice system ultimately led Shelby to major in Criminal Justice at West Chester University. While earning her bachelor’s degree, she participated in an internship at the Crime Victims’ Center of Chester County, where she met the founder/CEO of A Child’s Light, Leslie Holt. This internship ultimately steered Shelby to enroll at Widener University Commonwealth Law School in Harrisburg, Pa., where she graduated in 2021 and became barred in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. In law school, she focused on criminal justice and eventually interned with the Chester County District Attorney’s Office.

Tina Ayala

Tina Ayala witnessed firsthand how challenging life can be for children facing hardships. Her own childhood was filled with moments of uncertainty, but despite the obstacles, she worked hard to create a better future and learned the true value of resilience along the way. Through it all, her faith in God gave her strength and hope. Leaning on Him during the toughest moments reminded her that she was never alone and helped guide her to a brighter path.

Niko Cook

Niko’s Career spans more than 30 years of Executive Human Resources Management, and Foundation and Non-Profit Leadership.

“I’m passionate about advocating for the rights and privileges of Children. We owe them the very best of what we have.”

Brian Paul

Bio to come.

Marissa Britton

A legal marketing and business development specialist for a large Philadelphia law firm, Marissa also runs Britton Marketing which provides marketing and event consulting to small businesses and nonprofits.

“My passion for justice and protecting others led to my interest in the law, and my creative mindset led to legal marketing. When not event planning or spending time with family and friends, I volunteer at a local animal shelter to walk dogs. I love motivational podcasts, my day planner, Bossa Nova music, lavender and my cat, Sushi.” 

Teresa Holt

With a background as a certified medical assistant and lead endoscopy technician, Teresa has a nurturing side and a love for science. Now a dedicated wife and a mother of two young children, she loves being involved with their schools and volunteering for activities.

“In addition to my interest in health care, I also have a deep love of art and fashion. I am a vintage clothing purveyor with my own shop online, and I draw and paint as a hobby. With a deep compassion for children, I am very passionate about helping children in need. I want to support A Child’s Light’s mission to help children heal from the trauma they’ve experienced.” 

Holly Bostwick

Holly Bostwick, a West Chester University Honors College graduate in May 2023, with a Bachelors of Science in Computer Science, and a minor in Civic and Professional Leadership. As a part of her honors college capstone project, she decided to focus on domestic violence, to which she was a victim of domestic violence herself. From her project, she met the founder/CEO of A Child’s Light, Leslie Holt, and began to work together to support children who have gone through similar traumatic experiences as her.

Daisy Lara

Daisy Lara is a double board-certified nurse practitioner who serves the community as an ambassador for mental health services in her community. She has a passion for serving the underserved and marginalized communities. Daisy is the President/founder of Resilio Mental Health Solutions LLC in Downingtown, Pa, one of the only nurse practitioner led Spanish speaking private practices, in Chester County. Resilio focuses on patient centered care and providing a safe environment where her clients receive compassionate support. Their mission is to assist individuals in overcoming adversities. Services include initial psychiatric evaluations and medication management when necessary.