Meet our Team
Kelly’s Dream is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of volunteers who understand and care about the challenges facing individuals and families with a cancer diagnosis. They work diligently to ensure the mission of is carried out to its fullest potential.
Kelly O'Donnell Ware
Founder / Executive Director
Kelly founded Kelly's Dream after being diagnosed with late-stage metastatic melanoma. She felt a need to take her journey with cancer and turn it into her life mission. Her idea became a reality when she hosted her first fundraiser in late 2009. Kelly's husband, children, and family stood beside her as she embarked on taking it to each new level. When asked what her drive is behind making Kelly's Dream a success, Kelly replies, "offering hope and support at a personal level when a family is facing a cancer diagnosis and sharing her own journey throughout the community".
Peggy Henschel
Secretary
Peggy currently works for the Baltimore County Public School System. Prior to that, she was the Office Manager for a local printing company and served as the firm's Secretary/Treasurer for the Board of Directors. Peggy has years of experience volunteering for many organizations including the PTA, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Raven's Roost and the Let’s Throw Together for Tyler annual fundraiser. Since being inspired by Kelly’s Story back in 2011, Peggy has been involved in a number of roles with Kelly’s Dream. She serves the organization with enthusiasm, empathy and compassion, coupled with communication and organizational skills.
David Hager
Treasurer
David is currently a Bindery Supervisor for Advance Printing, having started there in 1986. In September of 1987, David joined the Hamilton Optimist Club of Maryland. He remained an active member of the Organization until May 2010. During his time with the Optimist Club, he served several years on the Board as Treasurer and eventually became President for two years. During his time as President, he helped kick off the Shop With A Cop in Baltimore City and Hamilton Tigers Unlimited Youth Football programs. Both continue to be successful to this day. He married Julee in 1995 and has a daughter, Madison, born in 1998. In his free time, he enjoys hiking, kayaking, and visiting breweries. He first started volunteering with Kelly's Dream 5 years ago and has been actively involved in helping out with fundraising events. David joined the Board in 2021.
Thomas Marr IV
Tom has been a volunteer for Kelly’s Dream since 2014 and was named to the Board of Directors in 2018. Tom has been an Investigator for The Maryland Home Improvement Commission since 1993 and their Chief Investigator since 2011. Tom has also served as an inspector for the Baltimore County Liquor Board from 1998 to 2003. He brings a wealth of small business and regulatory knowledge to our board.
Frank Giampa
Frank is a retired lawyer who formerly worked for ExxonMobil Corp for 19 years where he handled commercial transactions worldwide. He received a joint Economics/Math degree from the University of Rochester and his JD from Cornell. Being originally from New York, Frank relocated to Baltimore, his wife Lisa’s hometown, in 1994. Frank has been involved in volunteering in youth activities for over 40 years. He was named to the Board of Directors in 2019 and is very involved in our Sunscreen Dispenser initiative.
Kevin Wise
Kevin Wise (bio coming soon)