Heather Rhymes, BSBA, Executive Director

hmrhymesmchc@gmail.com

With a calling for serving those in need, Heather prioritizes the improvement and overall well being of our community and those residing in it. Having devoted years of her life to working with the disadvantaged and underserved across Monroe County, and with a background in Developmental Psychology & Business Administration, she compassionately embraces the needs of our rural area with an eagerness to reach and assist in meeting those needs. As a wife and mother, she spends her spare time fostering those most important relationships and cares deeply about the future of Monroe County.

Gabbie McConkey, CPS 1, Project Director

gabbie.mchc@gmail.com

Gabbie has lived in Monroe County since 1998 and is enjoying raising her family here. Gabbie has been involved with the coalition since 2014, starting as a volunteer and later becoming an employee. One of her passions is working with the youth of Monroe County and helping to empower them to make healthy, smart, and safe choices as they grow. SADD club and Monroe in Motion are two of her favorite projects! She helped create the “Revealed: A Hidden World” trailer, a mobile substance abuse prevention program for parents and caregivers. She created the “Pet Meds Matter Too”, a campaign near and dear to her, as are all of our community and drug take-back events.

Tammie George, CPS 1, Project Coordinator

tammie.mchc@gmail.com

Tammie has served with the coalition since 2016, dedicating herself to improving the Monroe County community through programs focused on substance misuse and crime prevention, as well as promoting wellness through education and advocacy. Her compassionate heart extends to ministering to those facing homelessness, addiction, and incarceration. Actively seeking opportunities to help individuals overcome hurts, habits, and hang-ups, Tammie is committed to supporting positive life transformations. She has proudly called Tellico Plains home since 2010, and in the spring of 2020, she and her husband welcomed their first child—adding even more joy and purpose to their lives.

 

Haley Knuckles, Cross Creek School Garden Coordinator, Healthy Roots Monroe

sweetwaterhealthyrootsmonroe@gmail.com

Haley brings over twenty years of experience working with children, from early childhood enrichment and nannying to designing learning environments and consulting on best practices. After spending a decade in NYC real estate—paired with volunteer work in literacy outreach, tutoring, and STEAM programming—she shifted her focus back to education and nature-based learning. As a School Garden Educator, she leads hands-on lessons that introduce students to soil, seeds, plant life, nutrition, and the wonders of the natural world. Haley is passionate about creating outdoor learning spaces that nurture children’s curiosity, confidence, and well-being. In her free time, she enjoys reading, gardening, antiquing, traveling, exploring cities, and spending time with her family and her rabbit, Oberon.

Lynn Carangelo, Rural Vale School Garden Coordinator, Healthy Roots Monroe

healthyrootsmonroe@gmail.com

Daniela Meeks, Community Outreach Advocate

advocatemonroe@gmail.com

Born and raised in Madisonville, Daniela Meeks witnessed firsthand the challenges of substance misuse and domestic violence that affect our community. In 2018, she overcame incredible odds with the support of The House That Mercy Built, a local Monroe County outreach program. Inspired by her journey, Daniela has devoted her life to empowering others in our community, particularly women, to rediscover their identity, value, and purpose. Alongside her husband, Tony, Daniela is passionate about serving incarcerated individuals and mentoring youth, striving to create lasting change and hope for future generations.

 
 

Mikaela McConkey, Outreach Liaison

mikaela.mchc@gmail.com

Mikaela McConkey is a dynamic individual with a passion for communication and engagement, particularly within the youth demographic. Specializing in crafting digital solutions that resonate with users, Mikaela brings a fresh perspective and a dedication to bridging the gap between technology and human interaction. With a focus on empowering young individuals, she is committed to making a positive impact in her community. Mikaela's ambition to support projects that prioritize inclusivity and social impact is evident in her role, where her innovative spirit and dedication shine bright.