STAFF BIOS | Faith in Action

MEET OUR TEAM

Faith in Action is a national movement that was founded on the ideals of community volunteerism and built on a philosophy of neighbors helping neighbors. With more Americans living longer lives, many face the challenge of helping a family member, neighbor or friend who suffers from arthritis, diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer's, or other long-term health condition. These efforts have helped to create hundreds of interfaith volunteer caregiving programs across the country, which is now supported by a National Faith in Action Network.

In Minnesota, we have our own network of Faith in Action programs through the Minnesota Faith in Action. This network offers program support and advice on developing successful, sustainable caregiving programs that can serve their communities for many years to come.

Program Director

Ashley Folwarski

Ashley began her role as a Support Planner and Caregiver Consultant through Assumption Community Faith in Action in 2018. In November 2019 she took the role of program director. Ashley obtained her bachelor's degree in social work from Saint Cloud State University. She first started working in healthcare 11 years ago and has gained knowledge and experience by working with older adults, those experiencing dementia, and individuals of all ages with varying abilities. Her passion has always been providing the support and service needed to help older adults remain as healthy, safe, and independent as possible. Ashley is trained in advanced dementia capabilities, caregiver consultant training, and Powerful Tools for Caregivers. She works with clients and caregivers in the St. Cloud metro area. You can reach her via email or call 320.247.9790

Volunteer Coordinator

Linda Hemmesch

Linda first began working for Assumption Community in Cold Spring in October of 2020. She took her position at Faith in Action in March 2021. She currently splits her time between her two roles: volunteer coordinator for Assumption Community and transportation coordinator for Faith in Action. Linda was employed in the medical field before retiring after 35 years. She loves working with volunteers and recognizing each persons unique skills and talents. This allows her to help the volunteers fulfill their own personal goals or needs in their volunteer role. Volunteering has been an important part of her own life and is one of her core beliefs, as she herself enjoys helping others and giving back. If you are interested in volunteering for Faith in Action you can email Linda or call her at 320.330.8575

Service Coordinator

Pat Tomasek

Pat began with our program as an AmeriCorps VISTA and has continued to be involved as a Service Coordinator out of her home in Melrose and as a volunteer for the program. Her passion for service and her connections with her own community has kept her striving to provide service coordination for her area and connect with those in need. You can reach her at 1.800.549.5858

Support Planner/Caregiver Consultant

Hope Robak

Hope began her role as a Support Planner through Assumption Community Faith in Action in October of 2022. She graduated from The College of Saint Benedict in May of 2022 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and a minor in Nutrition. She is currently working towards earning a Master’s degree in Psychology. Hope gained her healthcare experience working in the Adult Mental Health Unit at the St. Cloud Hospital working with patients with various different mental health needs. Hope is passionate about helping others, especially older adults and those within the aging community.