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Meet the Team
Who We Are
Marcia Holt
Executive Director
Marcia Holt is the Founder and Executive Director of Because Organization. Her commitment to combating human trafficking grew from her academic studies and international experiences across the United States and Europe.
A graduate of Albright College with a bachelor's degree in Political Science and International Relations, Marcia later earned a Master’s degree in Diplomacy and International Law from The American University of Paris. During her studies, she spent time living in Paris, France, an experience that broadened her understanding of global issues and different cultures. While pursuing her master's degree, she developed a particular interest in human trafficking as a form of international organized crime and human rights abuse.
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In 2018, Marcia was accepted into the International Human Rights Summer Law Program at Oxford, where her studies reinforced the importance of survivor-centered approaches to addressing exploitation and abuse. Following her academic work, she joined the anti-trafficking division of a large nonprofit organization, gaining practical experience in advocacy, survivor support, and public awareness initiatives.
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Drawing on both her professional and educational background, Marcia founded Because Organization to help expand access to trauma-informed services, raise awareness about human trafficking, and support survivors as they regain independence, heal, and build brighter futures.
Wendy Burke
Board of Directors
Secretary
Wendy Burke serves on the Board of Directors and as Secretary of Because Organization. She brings more than 30 years of leadership experience in telecommunications, customer service, and corporate operations.
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Wendy began her career with AT&T, where she earned multiple technical certifications and advanced into management. Her decade with the company helped shape her commitment to service, leadership, and operational excellence. She later joined a global pharmaceutical company, where she spent more than 14 years leading internal telephony operations and supporting teams across multiple countries and cultures. Most recently, she retired from a major communications and entertainment provider after a distinguished career focused on communication systems, customer relations, and organizational support.
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Throughout her career and personal travels, Wendy has developed a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and effective communication. Her experience working with international teams and her multicultural family have strengthened her ability to build relationships, foster understanding, and support collaborative solutions.
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Wendy brings a practical, people-centered perspective to Because Organization's mission and governance.
wendy.burke@becauseorganization.org
MaryBeth Ford
Board of Directors
Treasurer
MaryBeth Ford serves on the Board of Directors and as Treasurer of Because Organization. She brings decades of leadership experience in telecommunications, project management, and business operations.
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A native of Southwest Philadelphia, MaryBeth attended West Catholic Girls High School before joining the U.S. Navy, where she served as a Radioman during the final years of the Vietnam War era. Working in telecommunications with a Top Secret security clearance provided the foundation for a successful career in engineering, design, and consulting.
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MaryBeth later founded and operated her own telecommunications company for nearly 20 years. Throughout her career, she managed complex projects across the healthcare, financial, and pharmaceutical sectors, helping organizations grow while overseeing large-scale corporate, call center, and research facility installations nationwide.
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Beyond her professional accomplishments, MaryBeth dedicated more than 35 years to coaching youth sports and remains an active musician. Her experiences working with diverse teams and communities across the country have strengthened her leadership, adaptability, and commitment to service.
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Today, MaryBeth brings her financial oversight, operational expertise, and passion for community impact to support the mission of Because Organization.
Dr. William Cottringer
Chair of the Board of Directors
Co-chair of Governance, Compliance, and Ethics
William Cottringer (Bill) has 50+ professional training, education and work experience in security and correctional management, law enforcement, mental health, human resources and college teaching. Bill recently completed a post-graduate certificate in human capital leadership from the American Military University in updating his earlier credentials with courses in organizational development, organizational behavior, leadership, team building, crisis leadership and ethics. Bill is looking to give back to society for all the knowledge and experience he has gained over the years.
Laura Pascarella
Board of Directors
Outreach and Communications
Laura Pascarella is an accomplished leader and innovator with two decades of experience at the U.S. Department of State, where she directed national policy communications, organizational transformation, and crisis response in the Bureau of Consular Affairs. She has launched global service initiatives to enhance U.S. Passport Services, and is known for her ability to lead creative teams that build public trust and deliver human-centered solutions.
Laura’s international experience includes public diplomacy and volunteerism, managing customer service at key passport agencies, training officials across multiple countries, and supporting crisis responses in the U.S., Lebanon, Haiti, and Egypt.
As a mentor, coach, public speaker and small business owner, she is passionate about empowering teams and strengthening communities. In May 2026, Laura joined the Because Organization Board of Directors, bringing her expertise in leadership, transformation, and community impact.
​Kimberly Phillips
Board of Directors
Government, Compliance, and Ethics Co-Chair
Kimberly has participated in many charity events in the past (such as cards for WNY Feed More and various work in the Dominican Republic) but is so excited to dedicate herself to helping human trafficking survivors. Her previous many years of corporate experience will help her bring strategy, transformation, and continuous improvement to the organization. Currently, she is a Senior Vice President and Change Manager at M&T Bank.
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She is married to her husband Casey and they have 3 teenagers that they love so much! She also adores her Cavapoo dog ! She loves spending time with her family and friends, learning new things (such as crafting with her Cricut machine), and travelling.
Each member of our leadership team and board brings unique expertise and a shared commitment to our mission. Together, they guide our strategic direction and ensure we stay true to our values and goals.
We're grateful for their dedication and leadership, which empower us to make a real difference every day.
Thank you for taking the time to get to know the people behind our efforts.