Nina Ballew

Nina Ballew is an early learning specialist and teacher with over 17 years of experience working in public school systems, including Bellingham and Ferndale School Districts. She is the mother of three and brings deep expertise in play-based learning, child development, and inclusive education. Nina co-founded Heart of Play to expand equitable access to meaningful play experiences for children and families across Whatcom County and currently serves as the organization’s primary program and vision lead.

Co-founder & Board President

Kellie Goodman

Kellie Goodman is an elementary school teacher with more than a decade of experience and a passion for STEAM education. She piloted a science education consortium and was recognized as a Common Core and Next Generation Science Standards Pioneer. As a mother of two young children, Kellie brings both professional expertise and lived experience to Heart of Play’s work.

Co-founder & Board Member

Tim O’Donnell

Tim O’Donnell serves as Finance Manager at Lydia Place and brings extensive financial oversight experience to Heart of Play. Previously, he worked for 12 years as Director and Program Development Manager at the ReStore, where he managed budgets, operations, and program growth. Tim provides strong nonprofit fiscal leadership to ensure Heart of Play’s financial sustainability.

Treasurer

Eric Chambers

Eric Chambers has spent more than 25 years in the public sector ensuring equitable access to resources across health care, education, and technology. He is a former adjunct faculty member in Western Washington University’s Human Services Program, where he taught hundreds of students nonprofit leadership and management fundamentals. Eric has held numerous executive nonprofit board roles, including a five-year tenure as the founding President of the Children’s Museum of Skagit County, bringing valuable governance and museum leadership experience to Heart of Play.

Vice President

Lindsey Snyder

Lindsey Snyder has over 20 years of experience as a museum educator, having worked in multiple children’s museums as well as The Field Museum in Chicago, a zoo, aquarium, and planetarium.  She just completed her Doctorate in Museum Curriculum Studies from the University of British Columbia. Lindsey is passionate about object-based exploration as tools for engaging children and families in science and discovery.

Board Member

Anne Granberg is an early learning supervisor with the YMCA and brings extensive experience in the early learning systems of Whatcom County. Her background strengthens Heart of Play’s alignment with best practices in early childhood education and community-based family support.

Board Member

Anne Granberg

Allie Rock

Allie Rock has 15 years of experience in nonprofit communications, donor relations, and fundraising strategy, including work with the University of Washington and Seattle Children’s. She specializes in translating complex topics into compelling stories that inspire connection and action. In Spring 2025, Allie joined Children of the Setting Sun Productions, an Indigenous-led nonprofit that weaves together storytelling, education, and research to amplify Native voices.

Secretary

Mamie Lackey

Mamie Lackie is the Statewide Managing Attorney for TeamChild and a longtime board member of the Opportunity Council. She has worked with youth in Whatcom County for more than 20 years in a variety of roles. For over a decade, Mamie advocated for youth in Whatcom County Juvenile Court and has volunteered extensively as a Teen Court coach and judge, Community Links instructor at the Whatcom Dispute Resolution Center, and volunteer within the Bellingham School District. She is the proud mother of a middle school-aged daughter and continues to advocate for youth across Washington State.

Board Member

Emily Sabelhaus

Emily Sabelhaus is an occupational therapist, entrepreneur, and owner of Bellingham Pediatric Therapy. She brings deep expertise in child development, sensory integration, and family-centered care. Emily’s professional background strengthens Heart of Play’s commitment to inclusive, developmentally appropriate play experiences for children of all abilities.

Board Member