About Us

Mike Hess, Founder

Mike Hess is a 40-year veteran of the resort, real estate, and hospitality industries. Mike has provided strategic, tactical, financial, and transformational leadership resulting in many successful ventures such as Telluride Ski & Golf Resort,The Peaks Resort & Spa, Epiphany Clubs & Resorts, Abercrombie & Kent Destination Clubs, Angel Fire Ski Resort, and EuropeByAir.com. Today Hess devotes time to helping nonprofit organizations raise funds and fulfill their mission and spending as much time with his four grandchildren as possible.

Contact Mike at 970-708-0336 or mhess@philantopia.com.

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Madison Nelson, Director of Strategic Partnerships

Madison Nelson is passionate about developing and fostering lasting business relationships with partners worldwide, aiding in the creation of unique, luxury travel packages that help nonprofits reach their fundraising goals. She specializes in curating the latest trend-worthy travel packages for nonprofits that provide their donors with life-changing trips and unforgettable memories. When she isn’t working, Madison enjoys rafting and fishing with her husband and dog, reading, cooking, and researching all things health and wellness. 

Contact Madison at mnelson@philantopia.com.

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Joanne Cole, Fundraising Advisor

Joanne Cole is a former nonprofit Development Director with a depth of experience in nonprofit fundraising, especially silent auctions! She loves working with Philantopia because it allows her to continue supporting mission-driven nonprofits and the great work that they do in the community. In her spare time she hikes, fishes, and enjoys her dogs. 

Contact Joanne at 303-443-7459 or at jcole@philantopia.com.

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Anna Ricci, Fundraising Advisor

Anna Ricci endeavors to always have a positive influence on everyone she meets! With over 30 years of experience in customer service, she makes her clients the top priority and works to ensure excellent outcomes for all. Having spent years planning and facilitating nonprofit fundraisers, she understands that donations are critical to any organization, and takes genuine delight in helping others reach their donation goals. Anna has traveled extensively (yet never quite enough) and lived outside the U.S., embracing cultural nuance and differing perspectives. When she isn’t traveling, she enjoys staying active, hiking with her dog, and having meaningful conversations with friends.

Contact Anna at 602-390-0266 or at aricci@philantopia.com.

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Paula Seuffert, Travel Advisor

Paula Seuffert is committed to providing Philantopia’s nonprofit clients with stress-free travel experiences for their donors. From booking flights and accommodations to arranging tours and activities, she curates personalized itineraries that cater to each donor’s unique preferences and interests. With a deep understanding of various travel destinations and a network of trusted partners, Paula offers valuable insights and recommendations to help travelers make the most of their trip. She is here to help donors create memories that will last a lifetime!

Contact Paula at 719-985-9348 or at peuffert@philantopia.com.

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Mara Theosmy, Salesforce Administrator

As a Salesforce professional and Business Analyst, Mara Theosmy is passionate about empowering organizations through technology. She specializes in leveraging CRM solutions and other systems to drive business success and improve operational efficiency. Mara has served primarily as the Salesforce Administrator for Philantopia since 2017, a role in which she creates solutions that enhance productivity and streamline processes. She focuses on managing the implementation and optimization of Salesforce features, ensuring smooth sales operations and providing dedicated support to the team. In her free time, Mara enjoys quality time with family and friends, shopping, watching investigative documentaries, Bible reading, and volunteering in ministry.

Contact Mara at 678-820-1579 or at mtheosmy@philantopia.com.