Our Team
Cathy Michalec,
Executive Director
Cathy brings over 30 years of non-profit leadership to Little Brothers Friends of the Elderly - San Francisco Chapter. Relocated from Seattle, she spent seven years as the Executive Director of Teens in Public Service and previously led the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America - Northwest Chapter, expanding its reach across five states. Cathy is proud of the work she did as a development director and a local NPR station in Harrisburg, PA. She holds a BS in Education from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee and served as a Peace Corps volunteer in Morocco. She loves to read, cook, and spend time with her husband and dog, Alki. You can email her at cmichalec@littlebrotherssf.org
Debbie began as a volunteer in 2017 and was inspired by the organization’s mission to reduce isolation among older adults. Wanting to continue giving back, she later joined the team as staff, where she now supports volunteers and helps create meaningful connections that foster friendship, dignity, and belonging. She holds a BA in Sociology with a minor in Special Education from San Francisco State University. Outside of work, she enjoys music and time with loved ones.
Debbie U.,
Volunteer Coordinator
Liz T.,
Stroll Buddies Coordinator
Liz moved to the Bay Area in 2017 to begin her career as a product and toy designer in the kids' space. After five years in that role, she was drawn to community engagement and joined us to help make a meaningful impact in the lives of San Francisco’s older adults. Outside of work, Liz enjoys sunshine-filled days, morning and sunset surfs, and trying new recipes.
Sarah A.,
Program Coordinator
Sarah moved from London to San Francisco in 2016 and holds a BS in Psychology from the University of Leeds. With a background in marketing and communications, she shifted her focus to the non-profit sector upon moving to the states, spending over three years volunteering with older adults. Her experiences deepened her passion for supporting this community and the essential work of organizations like ours. Sarah enjoys exploring the city, chasing after her toddler and rescue dog, Miss Sanchez, and connecting with friends.
Winnie C.,
Bilingual Assessment & Program Coordinator
Winnie, affectionately known as Chef Mama Chang, was born and raised in San Francisco, graduating from San Francisco State University with a degree in Family and Consumer Sciences. She has dedicated her career to caring for others, with a lifelong commitment to serving communities through child nutrition, immigrant and worker advocacy, and senior living. She started as a volunteer at LBFE in 2020 and is passionate about creating welcoming environments where older adults feel valued, respected, and truly at home.
Outside of work, she loves to bring people together over themed tea parties and home-cooked meals. She enjoys exploring the world, discovering new places and cultures, and making meaningful friendships wherever her travels take her.
Grace C.,
Program & Assessment Coordinator
Grace is a recent graduate from the University of San Francisco, where she received a degree in Environmental Studies, with a minor in Public Service and Community Engagement. Before this, she was a volunteer and intern with LBFE, which grew her passion for community outreach and intergenerational collaboration efforts. Outside of work, Grace loves arts and crafts, reading, and spending time with friends and family.