Board Members & Support Team

 

Photo by Jayana LaFountaine

Tatiana Benack, Founder & Executive Director

Tatiana Benack (formerly Gjergji), first generation Albanian-American, was the first in her immediate family to graduate high school and receive a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology. Tatiana has worked and volunteered at local nonprofit organizations that supported families in need, whether it being in special education, substance abuse prevention, and mental health services. Tatiana found her life’s purpose— which is supporting and empowering individuals of all ages in the community and because of her roots and what her family has gone through as refugees to live out their "American Dream," it inspired her to develop what Noteworthy Resources of Albany, Inc. (NWR) is today. Tatiana is continuously collaborating with local creatives, organizations, and businesses to bring more supportive services to her community. Tatiana goes above and beyond to make sure people have what they need to not only survive, but thrive! Tatiana's goal with NWR is to promote a sense of belonging for others and make it easier for individuals and families to access holistic wellness resources for their overall health. Tatiana is a certified Mental Health First Aid (National Council for Mental Wellbeing), NAMI Certified Peer for mental health, & trained in Trauma Informed Care.

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 joining the family business full time. Evan is currently the Senior Vice President of MacFawn Fire & Flood Restoration and is a Certified Master Fire and Water Restorer. Outside of the office, Evan enjoys drumming, traveling with his camper 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