The Mission recently welcomed a new member to our staff: Megan Disabella, our new Volunteer Coordinator. Megan is also new to Frederick—but her journey here is anything but ordinary.
Megan grew up near the Pennsylvania border in Delaware and attended college in North Carolina. While traveling to and from school, she often passed through Frederick. Each time, something about the city caught her attention. “I always felt a strong pull to this picturesque community,” Megan says.
“I was determined to move to Frederick and work for a nonprofit, and no one could tell me no.”
Today, Megan works alongside Volunteer Manager Carolyn Chandler, helping coordinate the 1,000+ people who volunteer at the Mission each month. “The Lord brought Megan here as an answer to our needs,” Carolyn says. “She has a great heart for people and the ability to engage our volunteers, groups, staff, and community. On top of that, she has the skills to keep track of all our data!”
Megan’s connection with the Mission began before she graduated from Appalachian State University. During her senior year, as she considered career options, she began researching nonprofit organizations in Frederick. When she discovered the Mission—and saw the wide range of services we provide in Jesus’ name—she was immediately interested.
Megan reached out through Facebook Messenger, asking if someone could tell her what it was like to work for a nonprofit in Frederick. Communications Manager Brian Bateman remembers their first online interaction well. “She asked if we could set up a Zoom call, and I agreed,” Brian says. “I was impressed by her ambition, focus, and initiative. She knew exactly what she wanted, and she was clearly intelligent and articulate. At the time we didn’t have any openings, but she definitely made an impression.”
A short time later, when Volunteer Coordinator Lisa Catania left the Mission to join her husband’s business, the position was posted online. Megan immediately applied. Many candidates expressed interest in the role, but during the interview process, Carolyn quickly recognized that Megan was the right fit.
Now, Megan is excited to help volunteers connect with the Mission’s work and the people we serve. “I want my job to be worth more than a paycheck,” she says. “I want what I do to make a difference in the community—especially for people who are often overlooked by society.” And thanks to Megan’s determination—and God’s guidance—she’s now doing exactly that.
