Our Leadership
Madi's Movement Team
Prepare to be inspired by the dedicated individuals who are the heart and soul of Madi’s Movement. Our board members bring passion, expertise, and commitment to making a difference in the lives of foster teens. With their collective wisdom and dedication, they drive our mission forward, empowering young lives to soar beyond their challenges.
Get to know the extraordinary minds behind our movement and join us in creating a hopeful future for every foster teen we serve.
Effie Santos
President
Meet Effie, Madi’s mom. Effie’s deep love for her beautiful daughter Madi and her desire to honor her legacy led her to create Madi’s Movement. Effie is committed to fulfilling Madi’s dreams of empowering silenced teens and giving them the opportunity to shape their own lives. Effie embraces this shared journey, hand in hand with Madi, making a difference one step at a time.
With 29 years of leadership and entrepreneurial experience, Effie brings valuable expertise to Madi’s Movement. Her skills in forging strategic collaborations, cultivating relationships, and driving business results make a lasting impact on nonprofit missions.
Through her captivating TEDx Talk, “The Power of the Pause: Finding Courage in Change,” Effie shares a powerful testament to her strength and determination. Reflecting on her journey alongside Madi, she inspires others to discover their own courage in the face of challenges.
Effie treasures being a mom to her incredible daughters, Athena and Madi, and wife to Lester. The joy and liveliness Madi brought to their family gatherings are etched in Effie’s heart as cherished memories. She greatly admires Madi’s bold and honest nature, exemplified by her signature sass of “No offense, but…” Drawing inspiration from Madi’s courage, Effie is dedicated to supporting foster teens and carrying forward Madi’s spirit through her advocacy.
Athena Ebie
Vice President
Introducing Athena, the compassionate Vice President of Madi’s Movement. Motivated by her love for her sister Madi and determination to create positive change, Athena shines as a beacon of kindness, spreading inspiration wherever she goes. She’s a smart, witty, and creative thinker who thrives on finding unique solutions and takes the lead with enthusiasm. Drawing from her experience in the financial world and her degree in Marketing Management from the University of Central Florida, Athena brings a fresh perspective to support the mission of Madi’s Movement.
Inspired by her sister’s spunky spirit, Athena actively contributes to the transformative work of Madi’s Movement. Through her involvement, she strives to create a nurturing and empowering environment for foster youth, where they can flourish. Athena treasures the many happy moments she and Madi have shared, from playing “airplane” to enjoying mani-pedis together and going on countless shopping trips. In her free time, Athena finds joy in cooking, expressing her artistic talents, and nurturing her wanderlust for worldly exploration. Her loyal furry companion, Mochi, brings love and companionship to her life.
Driven by her commitment and fueled by a deep connection to Madi, Athena is dedicated to leaving a lasting impact on the lives of those touch by Madi’s Movement.
Lester Santos
Treasurer
Introducing Lester, the treasurer of Madi’s Movement, an advocate for foster teens, with a diverse array of experiences and passions. Throughout his life, Lester has crafted a mosaic of adventures and interests, celebrating the strength of mentorship and advocating for the potential of every child to flourish.
With a seasoned career spanning over three decades in the banking industry, Lester contributes financial expertise to the board, ensuring the streamlined and effective operation of Madi’s Movement. His adeptness in financial management and strategic planning stands as a cornerstone in the organization’s mission advancement.
Outside his professional sphere, Lester is fueled by a trio of deep-rooted passions – baseball, the art of coffee roasting, and the joy of cooking. A lifelong enthusiast of baseball, Lester finds solace and inspiration in the rhythm of the game, which mirrors the ebb and flow of life itself. His dedication to coffee roasting reveals his commitment to refining each cup’s flavor profile, much like his approach to nurturing relationships
At the heart of Lester’s identity lies his blended family, comprised of his wife, Effie, and their daughters Athena, Madi, Isabella, and Lily. Together, they navigate life’s unpredictable journey, anchoring each other with support and love. The profound loss of Madi has only deepened their familial bond, motivating them to honor her memory and create a positive impact in the lives of others.
Lester’s enduring dedication to personal, spiritual, and professional growth stands as a testament to his character and radiates as an illuminating inspiration to all fortunate enough to collaborate alongside him.
Ellen Patterson
Secretary
Ellen Patterson is a passionate advocate dedicated to empowering young people and helping them unlock their full potential. Recognizing the vital role of youth in driving innovation and positive change, Ellen is committed to supporting them as they transition into young adulthood.
As Secretary of Madi’s Movement, Ellen is determined to make a difference in the lives of foster youth, particularly those who are aging out of care and facing significant challenges during this pivotal phase of their lives. With her extensive project management background and external relations experience, Ellen is well-equipped to forge meaningful partnerships within the foster care community and help advance the mission of Madi’s Movement.
Ellen draws constant inspiration from Madi’s enduring legacy, often encountering butterflies as subtle reminders of her presence. Working closely with Madi’s family and colleagues, Ellen is determined to drive change and create a lasting impact in the lives of foster youth within our communities. Her mindfulness and appreciation for life’s small wonders reflect her commitment to making a positive difference in the world.
Ellen lives in Denver with her partner, Ricardo, and their small pup, Mila. In her spare time, she enjoys reading historical fiction, trying new recipes, and being outdoors backpacking and camping.
Stacey Schmidt
Board Member
Stacey is a dedicated philanthropist, driven by her commitment to giving back to her community. With a passion for making a positive impact in the world, she supports various causes, including Ovarian Cancer Research, the Leukemia Lymphoma Society, and Ocean Conservation. Currently, Stacey focuses on raising funds for Madi’s Movement through her gift shop, Butterfly Footprint, in Dunedin, Florida.
Having worked with children as an Assistant Director for the B’nai Brith Youth Organization, Stacey understands the importance of supporting young people as they face life’s challenges. Her strong desire to adopt and her recognition of the critical need for helping foster children transition into adulthood drive her dedication.
A close family friend of Madi and her family, Stacey holds a special place in her heart for the young adults that Madi wanted to help. She deeply appreciates Madi’s sensitive heart and the impact she makes. Stacey is honored to be part of building an organization that will make a meaningful difference in the lives of those less fortunate, just as Madi would have.
Beyond her philanthropic endeavors, Stacey enjoys crocheting, crafting, playing mah jongg, watching her favorite movie Barefoot In the Park, and dancing to soul-stirring music.
John Schmidt
Board Member
John is an empathetic advocate for foster youth, drawing on his personal experience as an adopted child from South Korea. He understands firsthand the transformative power of finding a loving family to grow up with, and recognizes the ongoing support needed as foster youth navigate the challenges of transitioning into adulthood. Inspired by Madi’s passion to create better lives for children less fortunate, John is dedicated to making a difference through his involvement in Madi’s Movement.
Believing in the strength of community, John aims to unite individuals and organizations to support foster teens in their journey to adulthood. He values collaboration and recognizes the collective impact that can be achieved. By raising awareness and connecting with resources and guidance, John strives to empower foster youth to reach their full potential.
John’s friendship with Madi and her family runs deep, and he cherishes the memories they shared, such as making her favorite chocolate lava cake. In his leisure time, John enjoys jogging, playing golf, and finds joy in the uplifting tune of “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire.
Genevieve Savage
Board Member
Genevieve is a committed board member of Madi’s Movement, driven by a strong desire to uplift foster care youth and underprivileged families. Understanding the silenced voices and experiences of these individuals, Geni believes in restoring their sense of dignity through empathy and respect.
Having been fortunate enough to grow up with a loving family, support, financial stability, and a quality education, Geni feels a deep calling to support those who were dealt a different hand in life, without any fault or choice of their own. Joining Madi’s Movement enables Geni to carry on Madison’s legacy and advocate for guidance, support, and empowerment.
Geni fondly remembers Madi as someone who was unafraid to make her presence known in any room. From belting out tunes in front of the sink faucet to fearlessly expressing her thoughts, Madi embodied the spirit of making a difference and helping others. As a close friend, Geni admired Madi’s determination and willingness to speak up for what she believed in.
With a master’s degree in Social Work and experience working with at-risk youths and families, Geni brings valuable expertise. Beyond her professional life, Geni finds joy in art, self-care, and quality time with hey beloved cat, Nala.
Lisa Dill
Board Member
Lisa joins Madi’s Movement with a commitment to empower foster teens and equip them with the essential skills they need for independence and financial stability. Her passion for foster care was deepened during a Madi’s Movement event, where she had the privilege of connecting with inspiring foster teens who left an impression on her. Witnessing their resilience and determination fueled her desire to be deeply involved in ensuring these teens have the resources they need to thrive.
Her dedication to our cause is rooted in the aspiration to honor Madi’s dream. She recalls Madi’s infectious smile and the way she lit up a room with her positive energy. This memory serves as a reminder of the impact Madi had on those around her and reinforces the importance of carrying forward her dream of giving foster teens a voice. Lisa believes in our mission and the impactful programs we offer and is committed to helping these young individuals realize their potential.
Lisa’s experience in banking, teaching, and project management makes her a significant asset to our board. Yet, her involvement doesn’t stop here. Outside of Madi’s Movement, she’s served on her local YMCA board, is a member of the YMCA Blue Ridge Assembly’s Green Rocker Society and was part of the leadership team for a local American Cancer Society Relay for Life Event. Married to Frank for 28 years with two sons, Andrew and Elliot, Lisa also enjoys sharing coffee and crafting with friends, exploring local biking trails, immersing herself in historical fiction novels, and embarking on exciting European adventures.
Come join us
Are you ready to make a real difference in the lives of foster teens? Join our mission and become a catalyst for positive change.
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