Meet The Board
As a not for profit organization PHFTC depends on the talents of committed caring volunteers behind the scenes to manage and grow the ministry. We also have dedicated staff and partner organizations working in Romania caring for babies, children, families, and distributing supplies.
Founder & Executive Director
Ramona Petrella Cummings. Even as a young child Ramona had a heart for orphans, but it wasn't until she was 23 that she was able to do something with that passion! After working in a small orphanage and later the Pediatric Hospital in Oradea, Romania she was finally able to fulfill that longing from childhood to make a difference. Because of her experiences in Romania she was later hired as a Parent Educator through Cornell Cooperative Extension and was introduced to the foster care system here in the States.
Through this job, Ramona was spurred into becoming a foster parent herself and was certified in 2007. Since her marriage to Jack in 2008, they have had many children pass through their home. They have two children now- one biological and one adopted! Currently, they are doing respite and short term placement for babies. Ramona keeps active at home with her babies, traveling and fundraising for the the ministry, and extra curricular activities when she has the time!
Through this job, Ramona was spurred into becoming a foster parent herself and was certified in 2007. Since her marriage to Jack in 2008, they have had many children pass through their home. They have two children now- one biological and one adopted! Currently, they are doing respite and short term placement for babies. Ramona keeps active at home with her babies, traveling and fundraising for the the ministry, and extra curricular activities when she has the time!
Board Chair
My name is Mandy Walters and I live in Cortland, NY with my hubby, 4 children, chickens, ducks and cat. I enjoy homeschooling my children and helping women and babies in my role as a Certified Lactation Counselor and as a birth doula. I love to bake, discuss theology and organize events.
Vice Chair
My name is Ashlea Gray and I work in child welfare as a therapist. I received my Masters in Social Work from Syracuse University and am passionate about child welfare and the foster care system. I am excited to bring my passion to Project Hope for the Children. I enjoy traveling, yoga, kickboxing, art, and my 2 dogs.
Secretary
My name is Debbie King and I am married with three children and three grandchildren! I work as a legal secretary and am pleased to be able to use my skills here on the Board!
Treasurer
Natalie Brabrant was born in Pennsylvania, lived in many places along the eastern coast from NY to Florida, and graduated from College of Charleston with a B.S. in Elementary Education. Natalie worked in a wide range of careers including, but not limited to, teaching 4th grade, greenhouses, accounting, daycares, food industry, elderly care, and renovating houses. Since 4 years old, Natalie has had a heart for the unwanted and unloved children of the world and is very happy and excited to be joining with Project Hope for the Children. She has 6 children, 1 son-in-law, and a granddaughter.
Member At Large
I'm Larry Petry and my wife and I have lived in Syracuse for 40 years. We have two adult children and 3 grandchildren. I am a retired bookkeeper so the Treasurer position is right up my alley. I also am the Treasurer for my church, Lafayette Alliance. I became familiar with Project Hope for the Children through Ramona's presentations at church. I'm excited to use the skills God has given me to help the team and the ministry!
