Anya Lindsey-Jenkins — Executive Director
Anya Lindsey is an agent of change with over 20 years of experience serving at-risk youth and helping adult learners reach new heights through education and workforce development. Anya has worn the hats of Director, Instructor, fundraiser, grant writer, consultant, and lead clinical counselor. Anya is a staple in the Wilmington, Delaware community, as the former Director of Education, Employment, and Training for West End Neighborhood House.
Ms. Lindsey-Jenkins has brought the same enthusiasm to Big Brother Big Sisters of Delaware to strengthen youth resiliency through mentoring. As an innovator, collaborator, and strategist, Anya has taken the organization beyond the 21st century by engaging stakeholders through electronic and social media, fund development, stewardship events, and community-based connectivity. I believe in “feet-on-the-street outreach,” Anya’s growth-minded leadership has fostered an inclusive culture while creating the synergistic teamwork environment in which the agency thrives – Bigs and Littles, Mentors and Mentees.
Anya has a BA in Journalism from Temple University and a Master of Science in Health Education from St. Joseph’s University. When Anya is not empowering the masses, she spends quality time with her husband and daughter. You can probably catch her in Rehoboth, soaking up the sun, fresh air, and the breeze from the beach.
Aaron Karpas – Director of Development and Communications
A seasoned non-profit professional, Aaron most recently served as an Executive Director for the YMCA of Greater Brandywine. A New York native, he has spent his entire career in the non-profit sector helping the communities they serve.
He is a graduate of the University of North Carolina-Greensboro, holding a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He and his wife, Ericka, are the proud parents of Madeline, Benjamin, and Alexander. The entire family is excited for the new adventure with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Delaware and advancing the mission in the community.
Ronike Haynie – Community Development Director
Ronike Haynie is the Community Development Director at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Delaware. A graduate of Concord High School and Delaware State University, Ronike is an all-around community and youth advocate. He has coached youth in football for over ten years in the Delaware community and has worked with at-risk youth his entire career.
Ronike believes in community engagement and how important it is in creating social change. He has worked in the non-profit sector as a program manager at West End Neighborhood House and is currently a Safety Ambassador for Reach Riverside’s Teen Warehouse.
Ronike is a certified Youth Mental Health First Aid Responder and prides himself on using a trauma-informed care approach when dealing with at-risk youth and the community. Ronike’s passion stems from him wanting to be the person he needed when growing up.
Onita Phillips – Statewide Program Manager
Onita works as Program Manager for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Delaware. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Behavior Science from Wilmington University and a Master’s Degree in Human Service Administration.
Onita is passionate about supporting vulnerable populations by advocating equality and pioneering inclusive communities. She enjoys connecting with young people and feels it is essential for youth to express themselves into adulthood.
When she is not working, Onita spends time with her dog, Archie, and focuses on enhancing her self-care routine.
Katelyn Melvin – New Castle Case Manager
Katelyn serves as a Case Manager at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Delaware, helping to defend the potential of our community’s youth. Katelyn also conducts orientation and facilitates enrollment inquires for our program.
As a coach, volunteer, counselor, and advocate for Special Olympics of Delaware since 2010, Katelyn is passionate about defending the potential of everyone in our community. Katelyn holds a degree in Elementary Education and has worked in elementary schools for five years throughout her field studies, working closely with the younger side of the community.
Katelyn enjoys being outdoors with her two Black Labrador Retrievers, family, and friends in her free time. She finds joy in hiking through state parks, challenging peers to a trick shot game in basketball, finding new recipes to cook, and playing board games with her family.
Olivia Davis – Southern Delaware Case Manager
Olivia serves as the southern Delaware case manager at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Delaware and works to help all youth achieve their full potential. Olivia also facilities orientation and enrollment for youth and families coming into our program.
She has always been passionate about helping others and has a background in human services, where she has worked as a job coach for those who are developmentally delayed and intellectually disabled. Olivia holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a Master’s Degree in Forensic Psychology.