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Our Dedicated Team

The People that Power Our Mission

Our dedicated team brings passion, expertise, and a shared commitment to supporting CHD families. Learn about the individuals whose work fuels Brave Little Hearts’ mission to provide hope and resources for those navigating CHD. Together, we’re making a difference.

Naomi & William J. Winchester, Jr.

Parents of Our Charter Member

Founder/President Emeritus

Naomi Winchester

Naomi Winchester, the mother of Brave Little Hearts’ Charter Member Michael Richard Croix Winchester, brings firsthand experience and unwavering dedication to the organization’s mission. As a former Homeland Security professional, Naomi resigned to focus on caring for Michael, who was born with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome, and to support her family through the challenges of CHD. Her journey as a CHD mom inspired the founding of Brave Little Hearts, where she tirelessly spreads hope, spearheads creative fundraising initiatives, and leads promotional campaigns to sustain CHD family support. Naomi’s commitment extends beyond Brave Little Hearts, as she also contributes her talents to community boards and committees.

Board Chair

William J. Winchester, Jr.

William Winchester, cofounder of Brave Little Hearts and father of Charter Member Michael Richard Croix Winchester, brings a deeply personal connection and unwavering dedication to the organization. A former Marine Corps member (’96-’02), William’s fighting spirit and message of resilience, “never give up,” shaped his advocacy for Michael and now inspires CHD families to persevere through their own journeys. Motivated by Michael’s needs, William shifted his career path, earning a Biomedical Engineering degree in 2020 to support advancements for CHD children. A devoted father of four, William continues to bridge gaps in care, offering hope and resources to families facing the challenges of CHD.

BRAVE little Hearts

Board of Directors

Dr. Paulette Jones

Executive Director

Paulette serves as the Executive Director of Brave little Hearts for Michael and Friends and has been an integral part of the organization’s growth and development since 2015. Brave little Hearts’ mission to help families impacted by congenital heart disease (CHD), holds a special place in Paulette’s heart because Charter Member, Master Michael Richard Croix Winchester was her grandson. He will forever have a special place in her heart as she was privileged to be a part of his three-year journey during which he made waves and kept everyone on their toes. Although his life on this earth was short, his purpose will live on forever. Paulette is committed to keeping Michael’s legacy alive by blessing other families on their CHD journey.

Paulette’s has a heavy heart for her community as demonstrated throughout her 40 years of service to the community. She has held a multitude of leadership positions in civic and community service and volunteer organizations. She is on the Ministerial Staff at Mt. Zion AMEC, Norristown, PA; Montgomery County Commission for Women; Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc – Valley Forge Alumnae Chapter, Plymouth Township – Civil Service Commission, committee person and Founder of Pure in Heart Ministries which serves and support young girls.

Paulette enjoys traveling and made sure Michael was able to enjoy travel fun with his family. The motto was if we can go he can go!

Anitra Joyner

Secretary

Anitra began her journey with Brave Little Hearts as a virtual volunteer, assisting with the 2020 Dance-a-Thon, Annual Designer Bingo, and the first virtual CHD Awareness Week in 2021. After a year of exceptional dedication, she joined the team in person at Plymouth Township Day and was soon elected as a Board Director and appointed Secretary. With a Bachelor of Business Administration in Human Resource Management from Strayer University, Anitra’s expertise in administrative system support and client education ensures efficiency and compliance in her role. Her commitment and skills make her an invaluable asset to the organization.

Marcey L. Carroll

(MBA) Treasurer

Marcey, a seasoned professional with over 30 years of experience in commercial banking, joined the Brave Little Hearts board to help raise awareness about Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) and support families navigating its challenges. Her expertise spans relationship and portfolio management, including complex lending transactions like asset-based and specialty finance deals. Passionate about community service, Marcey is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and dedicates her time to making a difference locally. In her free time, she enjoys exercising, sports, and traveling, all while championing the mission of Brave Little Hearts.

Carolyn Austin

Retired Law Enforcement Officer

Carolyn, an accomplished author and retired law enforcement officer, joined the Brave Little Hearts board while writing her first book, Prayers of My Mother, Volume I, inspired by her moving encounter with Michael Richard Croix Winchester. Awed by Michael’s determination to keep up with his brothers despite his physical challenges, Carolyn embraced the mission to support families navigating CHD. With a BS in Management, she has balanced a 33-year career as a certified internal auditor, real estate broker, educator, and author. A proud mother and grandmother, Carolyn continues to give back through Brave Little Hearts and her local school district, empowering others to overcome challenges and thrive.

Destiney Hill

Assistant Manager Citizens Bank

Destiney brings a decade of nonprofit experience and a heartfelt passion for helping others to the Brave Little Hearts board. Her commitment to supporting families battling CHD is evident through her work with organizations like The Laurel House, The Salvation Army, and Convoy of Hope. Alongside her husband and son, Destiney strives to make a meaningful impact in her community. With a BS in Business Administration and training from Alpha USA, she has also hosted online classes to promote love and peace through digital outreach. Guided by her favorite quote, “Those who are happiest are those who do the most for others,” Destiney’s dedication inspires her service.

Schyuler Barbour-Johnson

MSN, Certified Registered Nurse Practitioner

Schyuler, a dedicated Nurse Practitioner, brings her deep empathy and healthcare expertise to the Brave Little Hearts board. Passionate about supporting CHD families, she advocates for quality care and resources to help parents and caregivers navigate the challenges of raising children with CHD. With a career spanning healthcare leadership, Schyuler has excelled in business development, operational management, and team building, contributing to process improvements and better outcomes. Outside of her professional role, Schyuler is committed to community service and enjoys jazz music, exercising, and traveling, all of which inspire her compassionate approach to helping others.

Frances Sandavol

(MBA) Real Estate Agent

Frances, a founding supporter of Brave Little Hearts, is dedicated to empowering families of children with Critical Congenital Heart Disease who require full-time care. With over 20 years of experience in Human Resource Management and a background as an Acquisition and Contract Specialist for the USPS, Frances brings invaluable expertise to the organization. Her previous roles, including Director of Training for Guest Services Corporations and serving on the Board for the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington, have honed her skills in family support and advocacy. Frances remains committed to inspiring CHD families and helping them navigate their unique challenges.

LTC Arthurine Jones (Retired)

Retired Law Enforcement

Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Arthurine Jones has been a steadfast supporter of Brave Little Hearts since its inception, passionately honoring the legacy of Michael Richard Croix Winchester. Deeply moved by Michael’s courageous fight against CHD, she is committed to advancing the organization’s mission to support and advocate for families navigating similar challenges. With a distinguished 37-year career at the United States Postal Service, including 22 years in federal law enforcement, LTC Jones exemplifies leadership, professionalism, and resilience. A champion of democracy and human rights, she is dedicated to making a positive impact, inspired by Michael’s tenacious spirit and contagious smile.

Verinia Robins

Board Member Emeritus

Varinia was one of Michael’s biggest fans, she loved on Michael in such a very special way. They shared a common bond; they both had a heart defect so she understood his journey better than most. As a Board member during our start-up period, Varina played an essential role in working with our website, social media presence and technology demands. She was an innovative technology expert, and her IT experience proved critical to our programing and messaging.

Varina was a fierce community leader and volunteer. If there was work to be bone Varinia was in the midst. She served on several community Boards; she was Vice Chair of Families Forward Philadelphia and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc – Valley Forge Alumnae Chapter. Her kind spirit and cheerful smile are truly missed.

Chavonne Collins

Sr. Program Manager at Amazon

Chavonne Collins is a passionate communicator and lifelong advocate for equity, inclusion, and community empowerment. As a board member for Brave Little Hearts, she leads social media and communications with heart, creativity, and intention—amplifying the voices and stories of children and families affected by congenital heart defects (CHD).

Chavonne currently serves as a Sr. Program Manager at Amazon, where she focuses on inclusive experiences and technology. With a strong background in diversity, communications, and advocacy, she brings over a decade of experience in digital engagement and strategic storytelling. Chavonne holds degrees from Morgan State University, Southern New Hampshire University, and American International College, along with a Diversity & Inclusion Certificate from Cornell University.

A proud mother of two and a believer in the power of love and visibility, Chavonne is dedicated to making sure every family feels seen, supported, and uplifted.

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Brave Little Hearts for Michael and Friends 
  • 610.572.3755
  • P O BOX 610
    Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462
  • info@bravelittlehearts.org

A 501c(3) Nonprofit Organization

Committed to Helping Children with Congenital Heart Disease

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