Mid-Atlantic Mothers’ Milk Bank recognizes the importance of breast milk to optimize the health and well-being of all babies, especially medically vulnerable infants. When mothers’ own milk is unavailable, Mid-Atlantic Mothers’ Milk Bank provides donor human milk, which is collected and processed according to the guidelines set forth by the Human Milk Banking Association of North America. They also aim to facilitate research and education in human lactation.
Denise O’Connor is the Founder and Executive Director of Mid-Atlantic Mothers’ Milk Bank. In the following interview, she speaks about the experience of partnering with PULSE.
CC: Why did your organization decide to work with PULSE?
DO: We heard wonderful things about the program from other non-profits. The milk bank is a startup organization and PULSE seemed like an excellent way to help build capacity. We love the idea of having young adults just starting their careers learning about donor milk too.
CC: What is the most rewarding part of working with PULSE?
DO: Working with Koehler! Our PULSE Fellow is a perfect match for our organization. We have benefited greatly from her skills. She brings a fresh perspective too. Throughout her time with us we have coordinated opportunities for her to shadow clinicians and have other experiences that will benefit her as she makes career decisions.
CC: How has your partnership with PULSE impacted your organization?
DO: It has allowed us to build capacity and visibility.
CC: What do you like most about your current PULSE follow and/or other fellows you’ve worked with?
DO: Koehler is an extremely intelligent and motivated employee that quickly became an important member of our team. Her most prized skill is the ability to autonomously lead new projects- a must in a startup environment like this!
CC: What would you tell other Pittsburgh nonprofits about PULSE?
DO: Apply! You will not regret it. Wonderful program.
Check out more great Partner Stories.
This is part of a series of posts about the Nonprofit Partner experience with PULSE. If you would like to learn more about a Nonprofit Partnership, please visit our Partner Page.