Meet Our Board Of Directors

Board of Directors

Tails of Togetherness Society

All members of the Tails of Togetherness Society Board of Directors serve without private financial benefit, in accordance with IRS requirements for 501(c)(3) organizations. No board member receives compensation beyond reimbursement for reasonable expenses incurred in the course of performing their duties. Board members provide strategic oversight, program guidance, and governance to ensure the organization operates exclusively for charitable purposes, including improving human and animal wellness, providing therapy dog programs, and supporting public health, education, and community service initiatives.

Founder & CEO

Cinnamon Coulter, A.A.S.

Cinnamon Coulter is a compassionate and mission-driven leader with more than 30 years of experience in dog training, therapy animal programs, and community service. As Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Tails of Togetherness Society, she directs programs that enhance human wellness, provide therapy dog services, and support the public through education, outreach, and emotional support initiatives.

Cinnamon is an AKC Certified Evaluator and Trainer with over 15 years of therapy dog team experience in hospitals, schools, memory care facilities, and community wellness programs. She has completed specialized courses in pet nutrition, animal behavioral best practices, and training techniques, and has over 25 years of grooming experience. These skills ensure the animals in the organization’s programs are healthy, well-trained, and able to safely contribute to human wellness initiatives.

She holds an Associate Degree in Computerized Office Technology & Applied Business along with Medical Terminology and Transcription and has extensive experience engaging with the public, building programs that meet community needs, and coordinating volunteers. Cinnamon’s lived experience as a visually impaired and physically disabled individual further informs her approach, ensuring the organization’s programs are accessible and inclusive for all participants.

Her leadership emphasizes:

- Empathy-driven program design for human and pet wellness

- Trauma-informed approaches to therapy and community outreach

- Inclusive programming that accommodates diverse abilities

- Strengthening the human–animal bond as a therapeutic tool

President

Treva Neiss, MBA, B.A.

Treva Neiss serves as President of Tails of Togetherness Society, bringing extensive leadership and human services experience to the organization. She holds a Master of Business Administration from Harvard Business School and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Yale University, providing a strong foundation in organizational strategy, program development, and community resource management.

Treva has spent many years working in Texas as a veterans’ social worker, family support specialist, and hospice care provider, working closely with individuals and families across all ages and life stages. Her work with elderly individuals, military veterans, and those navigating end-of-life care reflects her deep commitment to compassion-based support and respect for human dignity. She carries a strong understanding of trauma-informed practice, grief and bereavement support, and emotional resiliency.

In addition to her clinical and leadership experience, Treva has personally trained and handled a therapy dog, giving her an added pet wellness and animal-assisted support perspective. Her firsthand experience in developing a therapy team enhances her approach to integrating animal companionship into mental and emotional well-being. She advocates for the healing connection between humans and animals, particularly in stress reduction, emotional grounding, and fostering meaningful interpersonal connection.

As President, Treva provides strategic direction, oversight of organizational development, and leadership in expanding therapeutic outreach. Her combined executive insight, field experience, and authentic commitment to the human–animal bond strengthen the mission and impact of Tails of Togetherness Society.

Chief Financial Officer (CFO)

Tina O’Meara

Tina O’Meara brings more than 20 years of experience in accounting, financial oversight, and organizational management to Tails of Togetherness Society. She holds a Bachelor degree in Business Administration with a focus in accounting from Trinity University., 

Tina is a U.S. Air Force Veteran, having served 18 years, and brings personal insight into the needs of veterans and service members. Growing up as the daughter of a career Army member, she also has lifelong exposure to military culture and community support systems. Tina’s experience informs her work in ensuring veteran-focused programs, human wellness initiatives, and therapy dog services are managed efficiently and responsibly to maximize public benefit.

Throughout her career, Tina has worked with small businesses, corporate entities, and nonprofits, giving her strong financial oversight skills. As CFO, she ensures organizational revenue is managed transparently, ethically, and exclusively for charitable purposes, supporting programs that promote human and pet wellness, community outreach, and education. Her expertise ensures the long-term fiscal sustainability of the organization’s mission-driven initiatives.

Chief Human Wellness Officer (CHWO)

Chris Crestay, MSEd, LSW

Chris brings over 42 years of experience in the mental health field, providing compassionate, evidence-based support to both adolescents and adults across a wide range of clinical and community settings. Throughout her career, she has remained committed to promoting emotional well-being, trauma-informed care, and holistic approaches to personal growth.

In addition to her clinical work, Chris is a certified yoga instructor, integrating mindfulness and movement to support stress reduction, emotional regulation, and healing practices for individuals affected by trauma and PTSD. She currently facilitates the Cancer Support Group at Yellow Brick Place in Youngstown, Ohio, where she guides participants in coping strategies, connection, and resilience-building. She also serves as a dedicated school social worker, offering student-centered mental health support and resource coordination.

As Chief Human Wellness Officer for Tails of Togetherness Society, Chris provides leadership in wellness programming, trauma-informed outreach, and therapeutic engagement strategies. Her extensive experience and compassionate approach are central to advancing the organization’s mission of supporting the well-being of individuals, families, and communities.

Secretary

Elaine Poling, , M.A., B.A.

Elaine serves as Secretary of Tails of Togetherness Society, bringing a strong background in education, organizational coordination, and animal training to the leadership team. She holds a Master of Arts in International Relations from the University of Oxford and a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from the University of Nairobi, grounding her work in cultural awareness, social systems understanding, and effective communication.

With extensive experience as an educator, Elaine has taught both children with special needs and those in traditional educational settings. Her teaching background has equipped her with a deep capacity for patience, individualized learning strategies, and the ability to support diverse emotional, social, and behavioral needs. This perspective enriches our therapy and outreach programs, ensuring inclusivity, empathy, and thoughtful engagement across all environments.

In addition to her academic and professional expertise, Elaine brings many years of experience training both horses and dogs, enhancing our understanding of animal behavior, communication, and the human-animal bond.

As Secretary, she is responsible for maintaining accurate organizational records, coordinating communication, and ensuring clarity in administrative processes. She additionally oversees therapy team compliance, including ensuring members remain current on requirements such as background checks, credential renewals, and facility-specific standards. Elaine’s organizational leadership and attention to detail support smooth program operations and uphold the highest standards of safety and professionalism.

Chief Development Officer 

Chelsea Spoonamore, LPCC-S, M.A., B.A.

Chelsea Spoonamore is a dedicated mental health professional and community advocate with extensive experience supporting individuals of all ages. She currently works with a local school district & private office, assisting children with emotional and mental health needs, while also providing guidance and support to adults and youth struggling with addiction or other mental health challenges.

Chelsea is deeply committed to integrating therapy dog programs into her work, leveraging the human-animal bond to enhance emotional well-being and promote wellness for both humans and animals. Her approach emphasizes compassion, trauma-informed care, and the promotion of healthy interactions between people and their pets.

She holds a Master’s Degree in Community Mental Health from Kent State University and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from Ohio State University, and is a Licensed Professional Clinical Counselor with Supervisor designation (LPCC-S). Chelsea’s academic background, combined with decades of hands-on experience in mental health support, equips her with a well-rounded perspective on therapeutic, educational, and community-based interventions.

In addition to her clinical work, Chelsea brings expertise in fundraising and development strategies, playing a key role in advancing Tails of Togetherness Society’s mission and ensuring the sustainability and growth of its programs. Her leadership, professional insight, and dedication to improving the lives of both humans and animals make her an invaluable member of the organization’s team.

Mike Komacko

Chief Pet Wellness Officer

Mike serves as the Chief Pet Wellness Officer for Tails of Togetherness Society, bringing over a decade of hands-on experience in animal behavior, health, and wellness. With a lifelong passion for understanding and supporting the needs of pets, Mike has developed a deep expertise in canine and feline behavior, nutrition, physical health, and overall well-being.

Through years of practical experience working with pets in various settings, including therapy dog teams, training programs, and community wellness initiatives, Mike has gained a well-rounded understanding of animal care, behavior modification, and enrichment strategies. His approach combines observation, research, and real-world application to ensure that all animals under the organization’s care thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally.

As Chief Pet Wellness Officer, Mike oversees the development and implementation of programs that promote optimal pet health, guide therapy dog preparation, and enhance the human-animal bond. His dedication to understanding animals at every level—from behavior cues to wellness practices—ensures that Tails of Togetherness Society maintains the highest standards of care, safety, and compassion for the pets that play such an integral role in the organization’s mission.

Mike’s extensive experience, practical knowledge, and hands-on skill make him an invaluable leader in promoting both animal wellness and the integration of pets into human support programs.

Chief Veteran Outreach Officer

John Osborne

John serves as the Chief Veteran Outreach Officer for Tails of Togetherness Society, bringing personal experience, expertise, and deep insight into the challenges faced by military personnel and veterans. He served two years in the U.S. Navy during the Vietnam era, providing him with first-hand knowledge of military life, deployment, and the stresses associated with active duty.

Through his service and subsequent engagement with veteran communities, he has developed a profound understanding of the emotional, psychological, and social challenges that veterans encounter upon returning home. This includes recognizing the impact of combat stress, transition to civilian life, and the need for support networks to aid in mental health, social integration, and personal well-being.

In his role, he provides guidance on veteran-focused programs, assists in designing outreach initiatives, and helps integrate therapy dog services to support veterans’ emotional and mental wellness. His experience ensures that Tails of Togetherness Society’s programs are responsive, respectful, and effective in addressing the needs of those who have served.

His commitment to veteran advocacy, combined with practical knowledge of military culture and stress management, makes him an invaluable member of the board, enhancing the organization’s ability to serve the veteran community with compassion and effectiveness.

Chief Human Resource Officer And Chief Operating Officer Duties are currently being handled by other Board Members as agreed upon at the initial Board Meeting.   These positions will be filled in the future as the Board of Directors feels is necessary.  The Board of Directors will vote and appoint these officers as needed.

Committees:

Volunteer Chairperson

Cathy DeMarco

Cathy DeMarco serves as the Volunteer Chairperson for Tails of Togetherness Society, overseeing the recruitment, training, and coordination of all volunteers to ensure that organizational standards and procedures are consistently met. She ensures that volunteer documentation is complete and up-to-date, and that all volunteers are fully trained and prepared to safely and effectively participate in events and therapy programs.

Cathy brings extensive experience working with both children and adults across a variety of settings, giving her a strong foundation in communication, education, and program support. In addition to her administrative leadership, she actively volunteers as a Therapy Dog Handler, providing direct support to the organization’s human and animal wellness programs.

Her dual perspective as both a volunteer coordinator and hands-on therapy team member allows her to implement practical, effective processes while fostering a culture of compassion, safety, and engagement. Cathy’s dedication ensures that Tails of Togetherness Society volunteers are well-prepared, supported, and equipped to make a meaningful impact in the communities served.

Donations Chairperson

Corie Baker

Corie Baker serves as the Donations Chairperson for Tails of Togetherness Society, overseeing the organization’s fundraising and donation initiatives across multiple locations. She ensures that all donations are collected, tracked, and managed responsibly, supporting the organization’s mission to provide therapy programs, human and pet wellness initiatives, and community outreach.

Corie brings strong communication skills and extensive experience working with the public, including a background in the medical field performing secretarial and billing duties, which enhances her organizational and administrative capabilities. Her personal experience with a medical alert dog provides insight into the human-animal bond and the impact of therapy and service animals on wellness.

With a stable and established reach throughout the Tri-County communities, Corie is able to coordinate donation efforts efficiently and expand the organization’s presence, ensuring that resources are directed toward programs that benefit both people and pets. Her dedication, organizational expertise, and community engagement make her an invaluable member of the leadership team of Tails of Togetherness Society.