Meet the Team
Committed to Transforming Lives
At Brethren Housing Association, our dedicated team combines expertise, passion, and a shared commitment to empowering families and individuals experiencing homelessness. Each member brings unique skills and experiences to the table, working together to ensure the success of our mission to build resilience, stability, and hope.
Dennise Hill
Executive Director
Dennise provides strategic leadership to Brethren Housing Association, guiding the organization’s mission, vision, and programs with dedication and precision. She also oversees financial and property management, ensuring long-term sustainability and growth. A native of Steelton and a graduate of Shippensburg University, Dennise brings a wealth of experience in affordable housing and economic development to her role. Residing in Middletown, she is a proud mother and active community advocate.
Marilyn Bellesfield
Director of Program Policy and Development
With over 34 years of experience serving families experiencing homelessness, Marilyn is instrumental in shaping the policies and procedures that guide BHA’s housing programs. She leads community outreach initiatives, implements best practices, and fosters staff development through training and evaluation. Marilyn holds a B.A. in Family Studies from Messiah College and has been a vital part of BHA for over 11 years. She and her husband Mark live in the Etters area, where they enjoy annual vacations to Maine with their three adult children.
Jessica Vinton
Director of Development
Jessica leads BHA’s fundraising and communication efforts, ensuring robust support for the organization’s programs and mission. A graduate of Kutztown University with a BA in Theater and minors in Women’s Studies and Public Relations, Jessica later earned her Secondary Education certification in English. With over a decade of experience in development, including a previous tenure at BHA, Jessica is passionate about connecting with supporters to drive impact. She resides with her husband, daughter, three rescue dogs, and two turtles, cherishing time with her family.
Sofia Malone
Program Director
Sofia Malone oversees the daily operations of BHA’s Transitions Program, working closely with program staff and fostering positive connections with participating families. With over ten years of experience in property management, subsidized housing, and Rapid Rehousing programs, Sofia is deeply committed to creating pathways to stability for those in need. She holds an associate degree in Early Childhood Education from Harrisburg Area Community College and is a collaborative leader dedicated to making a difference.
Vanessa Zeiders
Family Advocate
Vanessa Zeiders supports families in BHA’s Transitions Program and leads the weekly youth program, which emphasizes resilience, emotional growth, and regulation. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Social Services from Geneva College and brings valuable experience in housing stability for young adults in Dauphin County. A lifelong Harrisburg resident, Vanessa finds joy in exploring new cultures and experiences through travel.
Abigail King
Director of Operations
Abigail plays a key role in optimizing BHA’s internal processes, ensuring efficient and effective operations that align with the organization’s mission. With over a decade of experience in the nonprofit sector, Abigail excels in streamlining operations and fostering organizational growth. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family, playing trivia, cooking with her husband, and donning her “dance mom” hat while supporting her daughter at classes and competitions.
Dennis Saylor
Property Manager
Dennis has been with BHA for decades, and he oversees the maintenance of BHA’s properties and manages renovations for new developments. With a lifelong career in construction and carpentry, Dennis brings hands-on expertise and a deep commitment to quality. He and his family reside in Manheim and are active members of West Greentree Church of the Brethren, a BHA member congregation.
Blair Grove
Volunteer Engagement & Youth Program Coordinator
Blair leads BHA’s weekly youth program, focusing on fostering resilience and emotional growth, while also coordinating volunteer engagement for programs and events. A graduate of Messiah University with a B.A. in Human Development and Family Science, Blair brings extensive experience in outreach coordination and youth programming. Originally from Maryland, she now calls Lemoyne, PA home and thrives on new adventures and meaningful connections.