When you learn about the dedicated individuals who work each day to enhance the lives of children and families affected by pediatric cancer, you’ll begin to understand why Friends has remained a vital force for over 30 years in St. Louis. We continue to be driven by the same passion and commitment that inspired our founding in 1992.
Our staff brings a wide range of talents to our work, including experience as parents, educators, professionals, and, most importantly, individuals who remain young at heart.
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Brandy Bimslager, Brandy serves as Executive Director of our organization, appointed in October of 2018. Previously, she served as the Office Administrator and Volunteer Coordinator, then Program Director, where she earned 8 years of experience within the organization. Her extensive involvement working directly with volunteers, staff, hospital providers, and patient families, in addition to her tremendous passion for helping pediatric cancer families, made for an easy transition to leadership. Professionally, Brandy has experience in the service industry, sales, politics, and coaching youth soccer. She earned her BA from the University of Missouri-St. Louis, where she played collegiate soccer. She became passionate about our mission through an experience with a close friend who lost their child to this devastating disease. |
Diane Voigt, Diane has over 20 years of accounting experience in the construction industry and also has an extensive background in banking. Diane is married and has two grown sons. They enjoy boating and spending weekends at the lake with family and friends. She loves kids and has been a long-time supporter of our organization and other cancer organizations. She looks forward to coming to work and loves making a difference every day in the lives of these children and their families. |
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Morgyn Johnson, Morgyn graduated from Lindenwood University in 2018 with a degree in Corporate Communications. She was previously an intern for Friends, helping with marketing & communications. She has also interned at the Cardinal Glennon Children’s Foundation. After graduating, she spent some time in the sales industry and missed her passion for helping others. |
Mara Simpson, Mara brings a passion for supporting children and families, grounded in her diverse background in child development, education, and family engagement. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Child and Family Development, with an emphasis in Child Life, from Missouri State University, where she was also a dedicated four-year field hockey student-athlete. Outside of work, Mara enjoys spending time with her husband and three children and remains active in her community by coaching field hockey locally. Mara holds a special passion for our mission, and her connection to this work is deeply personal because her niece is a leukemia survivor. This experience continues to inspire her commitment to supporting children and families facing cancer with compassion, understanding, and advocacy. |
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Cody Yonis, Cody has had a variety of experiences throughout his career, including working as an American Ninja Warrior coach, outdoor educator, and robotics technician. After spending several years traveling around the country and exploring new places, Cody realized he wanted to be part of something that made a difference in people’s lives. While he was grateful for the adventures and opportunities along the way, he felt drawn toward work that allowed him to give back and support others in a more meaningful way. Joining Friends gave Cody the chance to combine his passion for helping people with a mission he deeply believes in. Outside of work, Cody enjoys outdoor adventures and spending time with his partner and dog. |
Amanda Johnston-Burkemper, Amanda came to a career in non-profit through her service on multiple boards over many years. After a long career in the corporate world, she felt a calling to use her talents planning events and fundraising to make a difference in the lives of children. A native to the St. Louis area, Amanda has spent years cultivating a network rooted in trust, generosity, and shared purpose. She has a passion for connecting people to causes that matter, aligning hearts with missions. For her, networking isn’t transactional; it is transformational. Amanda is married with a young daughter. She and her daughter are both dedicated members of the Choral Society of St. Charles County. On a couple of weekends every year, you will find them on the stage. |
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Jenny Amparán, Jenny is a St. Louis native with over 18 years of experience as a caregiver. She’s married with two sons and two rescue dogs. Her many years of volunteer experience include Meals on Wheels for seniors and St. Louis Cancer Care. Jenny enjoys collecting vinyl records, going to antique shops, and supporting St. Louis businesses. Jenny’s sister is a three-time cancer survivor, and she knows the importance of supporting the entire family through a difficult diagnosis. |
Angela Hutchings, Angela has a deep-rooted passion for understanding people and their stories. Before serving Friends, she worked in the advertising industry, crafting stories that capture hearts and minds. Early in her career, she served as a project manager for nonprofit programs focused on child mentoring and tutoring. Angela holds a bachelor's degree in psychology and a degree in graphic design. She loves working with big-hearted people and making a difference in people’s lives. Angela became passionate about our mission through the experience of losing her nephew to this devastating disease. |
Photos provided in part by Felise Photography
