Welcome to The Mentor Connector
Our Team
Bobbi Jo Stellato
Executive Director
Bobbi Jo Stellato (she/her) joined The Mentor Connector in 2013 as a mentor coordinator and became the Director of Programs in 2018. She has over 16 years of non-profit program design, implementation and case management, with experience and extensive training in trauma informed practices and crisis intervention.
Prior to joining The Mentor Connector in 2013, Bobbi Jo worked as a shelter coordinator and a crisis advocate at an organization serving survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking. The focus of her work was providing crisis stabilization, connecting individuals with appropriate legal, medical and social services, and providing case management services to families and individuals in emergency shelter and transitional housing. Bobbi Jo currently serves on the Board of Directors for The Vermont Coalition of Runaway & Homeless Youth, is an active advisory member for the Medical Reserve Corp and volunteers at the Community Justice Center. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Northern University of Johnson, Vermont. When she is not working, she can be found traveling, writing, enjoying the outdoors and spending time with friends and her two children. Her core values are: Connection, Authenticity and Personal Growth.
Harold Pinkham
Director of Development
Having worked for or with roughly 25 different nonprofit organizations over the course of my career. I have come to realize each organization is different and has their own uniqueness which makes them special, particularly to those who are connected to the organization. Yet, as I have also discovered, every one of these organizations shares the same commonality, which is, through mission, they make their community in which they support, better.
Nothing inspires or gives me more personal satisfaction than working with and bringing volunteers together to achieve an objective which is important to them and critical to their organization’s mission. Whether it’s raising funds to build a new structure, launching an impactful new program initiative, or just raising the funds needed to deliver its mission, my ability to apply my knowledge and skill set to an organization’s cause, has been a lifelong passion.
During my career, I have raised over $35 Million for a variety of nonprofit organizations. I have extensive experience in managing annual campaigns, implementing major and planned giving programs, conducted all aspects of capital campaigns, grant writing, coordinating large scale special events and I have recruited hundreds of volunteers to support organizational missions.
I am a graduate of the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. My wife Michelle and I are the proud parents of two now adult children and have been happily married for over 30 years. I am an avid hiker and camper (though my idea of “roughing it” these days when camping involves no sewer hook-up).
Angela Buffum
Case Manager
Angela Buffum (she/her) is a passionate advocate for youth and a dedicated member of the Mentor Connector team, serving as case manager support staff. With a long-standing history at the organization—including roles as a mentor, administrative assistant, and event coordinator—Angela brings deep insight into the needs of the mentoring community. She has provided match support, coordinates monthly newsletters, and helped strengthen connections between mentors and mentees through activities and match interviews. Her professional background also includes three years in healthcare at a drug crisis center in Albany, NY, where she supported individuals through crisis response and advocacy and earned her CASAC-T certification.
Angela holds an Associate’s degree in Human Services from the Community College of Vermont and has completed clinical nursing rotations through Castleton State College. She is certified in first aid, CPR, and AED and has received specialized training in domestic violence, substance abuse, and support for LGBTQ survivors and adolescents. Angela has also developed educational materials on substance abuse and is committed to addressing barriers to employment, enhancing parenting skills, and building strong support networks. Outside of work, she enjoys fishing, spending time outdoors, and being with her two children.
Remi Kirby
Case Manager
With a focus on supporting personal growth and well-being, Remi Kirby has a history of working in recovery and mental health settings. She has an Associate’s of Science degree in Paralegal Studies and experience in family law, which has provided her with a deep understanding of family dynamics. Kristy is currently studying for her Bachelor’s degree in Health Science, with a focus on Human Services, further enhancing her ability to connect with and support her community. She is committed to applying her skills and dedication to her role, helping to connect youth with the mentorship and support that can make a difference in their lives.
Malitta
Youth Outreach Ambassador
Malitta is a proud Rutland High School graduate and a longtime member of The Mentor Connector community. She first joined the mentoring program as a mentee in fourth grade and has grown into a dedicated volunteer. Malitta serves as a Youth Outreach Ambassador, supporting mentor match activities and helping lead outreach events that raise awareness of mentoring and strengthen recruitment efforts in the community. Passionate about working with kids, she brings warmth, energy, and lived experience to inspire others and reflect the lasting impact of mentoring relationships.