Board Members & Support Team
Photo by Jayana LaFountaine
Tatiana Benack, Founder & Executive Director
Tatiana Benack, a first-generation American with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, is a powerful voice for those who have suffered in silence, especially women and girls. Inspired by her refugee parents' journey of survival and overcoming adversity, Tatiana became the first in her family to graduate high school and college. She has actively volunteered and worked with local nonprofits, supporting families in critical areas like special education, substance abuse prevention, and mental health. Tatiana is dedicated to continuous learning and sharing knowledge to empower others, believing strongly in collaborating with local partners to expand community support. Her vision for NWR is to build a community where everyone feels a sense of belonging and can easily access essential wellness resources. Tatiana's credentials include Mental Health First Aid certification, NAMI Certified Peer status, and Trauma-Informed Care training.
Evan MacFawn, Board Advisor
Originally from Latham, NY. Evan attended Drexel University in Philadelphia, PA, obtaining his BSBA majoring in Finance and Management. Following his time at Drexel, Evan worked in southern NJ managing the construction of freezer warehouses before moving back to Upstate New York to pursue other ventures. Evan is an IICRC Certified Master Fire, Water and Textile Restorer with over 15 years of experience in the restoration and construction industry. Previously Evan was the President of another local restoration company; he is currently the Managing Partner for Property Restoration of the Capital Region providing disaster restoration services across New York State with offices located in Albany, Syracuse and Binghamton, NY. Evan also runs his own consulting company Ready Consulting Group. Outside of the office, Evan enjoys drumming, cigars and restaurant hopping. Evan was introduced to Noteworthy Resources through his life-long friend, Brendon Benack, and immediately wanted nothing but for it to succeed. He brings with him business, management and finance skills in an effort to help support NWRs rapid growth.
Richard Daley, Board President
Richard is an active educator and consultant working to create a more resilient Capital District—a place which he has called home for nearly two decades. His organization, Sunray Sustainability, is focused on
promoting environmentally and socially sustainable practices and principles through a community focused approach. Richard brings over fifteen years of experience working in the field of education, both in
executive leadership and management, and direct teaching roles. Through partnerships with numerous organizations, he has reached people of all ages within private and public schools and colleges, nonprofits and community organizations, and has coordinated and directed volunteer action and community projects at the regional scale. Richard believes that with strong community building, people can work together to achieve a brighter, healthier, and beyond sustainable future. His aim as board
president is to bring valuable insight and leadership that will support NWR as it continues to provide essential resources, serve the community, and continue on in its role as a safe and supportive space for all.
Anne McGrath, Board Member
Anne grew up in the mountains of Palenville, NY always with a camera in hand. She has worked in film production and arts administration for various organizations in NY and LA and was a professional photographer for over 20 years. After moving to Albany in 2005, Anne balanced her freelance work with stints at several of the Capital Region’s best restaurants, such as Avenue A and New World Bistro Bar. Through her network, she was continually engaged in volunteer opportunities with locally based organizations such as the Boys and Girls Club, Soul Fire Farm, the Leukemia Society and Wildwood Schools. Though she continues to shoot - always an artist at heart - Anne has spent the last 9 years working in tech, with roles in Security and Privacy. In her work on the board, Anne will bring her passion for collaboration to drive community engagement and partnerships while also focusing on developing new programming to help broaden the impact and reach of Noteworthy Resources. She believes strongly that by providing a safe space for individuals to find mental, emotional and social support, (and an amazing skate park) NWR is unique in its approach to fostering a healthier and happier Albany. When she’s not working or out supporting live music, Anne can usually be found cooking at home with her husband Mike, their two kind and hilarious kids, and a dog and cat who both insist on crawling into her lap as soon as she sits down.
Interested in being a NWR board member??
Make positive impacts in our community with NWR! Seeking board members that have experience in accounting, grant writing, program development, administration, &/or fundraising. Rewarding perks to becoming a board member:
Personal satisfaction with supporting the community
Commitment to our mission & cause
Professional growth & networking opportunities
Career Advancement
Recognition
Learn complex strategic skills
Identify & grow your strengths