Co-Founder, Executive Director, Board Secretary

Founding Claire’s Place Foundation with her daughter Claire has been a way for Melissa to give back and share her experience with other families living with cystic fibrosis.  “Leading this organization is my way of keeping Claire’s legacy alive.”

Co-Founder, Former Chairman of the Board

John Wineland is an author, teacher and speaker, who for over a decade, has been leading both men and women in the realms of spiritual intimacy, life’s purpose and embodiment. John is a founding member of Claire’s Place Foundation which he started with his daughter Claire and her mother Melissa.

Chairman of the Board

Laura McHolm is the co-founder of award-winning NorthStar Moving Company. As one of the few women at the helm of a moving company, she is changing the way we move. Laura has been a member of the Claire’s Place Foundation Board since its founding and was elected Chairman of the Board in 2016.

Treasurer

Trish Dixon is acting CFO of Los Angeles-based Dixon Construction, Inc. a builder of high-end custom homes in Southern California.  She helped start and has managed the family-owned company for over 19 years. 

Director

“As a physician, I have cared for the full age range of people with CF, including infants, children, and adults. I am a proactive person, with over forty years of CF experience in multiple hospitals nationwide, who has a great understanding of both the emotional and physical factors in this condition.”

Director

Ryan Azevedo is an award-winning filmmaker that has produced and directed live concert and behind the scenes videos for multi-platinum and Grammy award-winning artists and multiple New York Times bestselling authors.He is also the founder of MediaBlitzz, which has created the marketing strategies behind Oscar-winning films, best-selling books and multi-platinum recording artists.

Director

An Oscar-winning filmmaker, British Royal Navy Pilot, leading Hollywood talent agent at International Creative Management and more, Nicholas Reed has spent much of his career championing talented artists and their film, television and documentary projects. In 2013, Reed founded SHAREABILITY, the world’s first “storytech” company.

Director

Awarded “Woman of Influence 2022” by GlobeSt.com, Julie is recognized for her remarkable achievements and distinguished work and leadership in the real estate industry. As COO, Julie leads New Standard Equities’ corporate operations as well as multifamily operations, including capital projects and asset management in the Western U.S

Work Proudly Program Manager

With 20+ years of experience in career services and program management, Marcia combines strategic leadership with a hands-on approach to designing and implementing programs that foster meaningful career opportunities and long-term success. 

Communications Assistant

Julia graduated with honors from Curry College with a degree in Communications. At Claire’s Place Foundation, she contributes to correspondence, event coordination, and organizational support. Her background and passion for helping others make her an invaluable asset in supporting individuals and families affected by cystic fibrosis.

Advisory Committee Chairperson

“Inspired by my role model Claire Wineland, I am dedicated to raising awareness, fostering change and celebrating life’s beauty amidst challenges. With my background in outreach, networking and advocacy—and as a CF patient myself—I am eager to contribute my expertise to this impactful organization. I am honored to continue Claire’s legacy and help drive the foundation’s goals forward.”

CF Ambassador

As a passionate CF advocate and a 2nd-grade teacher, Lauren will leverage her experiences to represent the foundation and support its mission of creating hope and strength for CF families. “As I work in education, I look forward to using my voice outside the classroom to support the foundation’s mission and make a meaningful impact in the CF community.”