Michael McGirr started his career in international development as a peace corps volunteer in Sierra Leone. Michael currently works with USDA where he has coordinated agency initiatives in the former Soviet Republics, Africa, Central American and, more recently, in Afghanistan. Michael has long had a passion for rural development in Africa and is keen to be helping to establish CPAR-USA. Michael has been chair of the board of directors since CPAR-USA’s founding in 2004.

Joe Ciccarone is a Registered Nurse working in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S.A. Joe was born in Philadelphia and has lived in the area all of his life. In 2002, Joe traveled with CPAR on a study tour to Ethiopia. On this trip, he saw the work CPAR does in Africa. Since then, Joe has been a supporter of CPAR'S programs in Africa and is eager to engage members of his community in supporting rural development projects. Joe joined the Board of Directors of CPAR-U.S.A in 2004.

Colleen Rees is a senior marketing communications professional with 25 years experience in brand development, business-to-business and consumer marketing, art direction and advertising in the Philadelphia business sector. As a results-driven marketing professional Colleen’s area of expertise also lies in strategic planning for corporate communications and marketing programs. Throughout her career Colleen has been actively involved representing United Way corporate employee campaigns for Fortune 500 companies and chairing Philadelphia non-profit business association charitable events. Colleen is excited to be able to lend her experience to CPAR-USA.

Kevin O’Brien is the Executive Director of CPAR-Canada and has been serving on the Board of Directors of CPAR-USA in an advisory capacity since 2004. Kevin’s extensive career in international cooperation and community development has included work with domestic and international civil society organizations at both the grassroots and senior administrative levels – working as a teacher and development worker in Sierra Leone, managing field operations for Plan International and more recently as Executive Director of Canadian Feed the Children. Kevin has been Executive Director of CPAR-Canada since 2002.