Our Staff
Makai M. Ballo
Director of Operations
With a diverse skill set spanning non-profit development, marketing, and DEIB (diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging), Makai (they/them/she/her) is dedicated to implementing impactful initiatives and experiences that cater to the community's needs.
Having contributed to organizations such as Creative Ministries, The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Options for Community Living, The Safe Center, and Speak Life End Bullying, Makai's leadership philosophy revolves around empowering clients, volunteers, and donors. They enjoy cultivating relationships and partnerships while ensuring that every voice is valued and respected.
Outside of ODE, Makai actively manages Queerli, a volunteer-led organization focused on creating safer spaces for the LGBTQIA+ communities across eastern Long Island. In her spare time, Michelle loves to weightlift, explore the North Fork with her wife Anjelica, and grace the stage with a song or through theatre.
Excited to bring their nurturing and creative spirit to the community and clients of ODE, Makai looks forward to making a positive impact in their new role.
Ryan Haugstatter
Director of Development
Ryan (he/him) is a dynamic professional with a profound dedication to philanthropy and community service.
Graduating with honors, Ryan embarked on his journey in the nonprofit sector as an event intern for United Jewish Federation (UJA), where his passion for making a difference began to flourish. Following graduation, he transitioned to Island Harvest Food Bank, initially serving as the Volunteer Coordinator. Within a remarkably short span, his exceptional leadership skills and unwavering commitment propelled him to the role of Development Manager.
Ryan's outstanding contributions were recognized when he was nominated by the CEO of Island Harvest for the esteemed 30 Under 30 Award by Long Island Business News. Eager to broaden his impact, Ryan further honed his expertise, serving as Development Manager at St. Vincent De Paul, and later as the Director of Development at Paws of War. His extensive experience in fundraising, coupled with his genuine passion for helping others, has been the cornerstone of his professional journey.
Beyond his career achievements, Ryan finds fulfillment in giving back to his community. A devoted animal lover, he shares his life with six beloved dogs and dedicates his free time to volunteering at local animal shelters. Ryan's multifaceted commitment to both human and animal welfare embodies his belief in the power of compassion and collective action to create meaningful change in the world.
Anna Macukas
Donor Logistics Coordinator
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Anna (she/her) brought her lifelong passion for Long Island community-building and service to Open Door Exchange as Donor Logistics Coordinator in September 2024. With her expertise as a professional home organizer, Anna's skills greatly enhance her role, enabling her to streamline and optimize furniture donations and distribution-a perfect fit for ODE.
After graduating from Stony Brook University with a dual degree in Psychology and English, Anna volunteered for five months in Thailand and Cambodia, supporting at-risk populations and efforts to stabilize communities against human trafficking, as well as leading a community development project in the Philippines. Anna has also worked for community-focused organizations such as Options for Community Living and the Ward Melville Heritage Organization.