Presvytera Melanie has joined the Center for Family Care as Resource Developer. She graduated from Youngstown State University (BChemE), and from Holy Cross Greek Orthodox School of Theology (MDiv). Married to Father Joseph DiStefano for 16 years, they have one son, Michael Seraphim. Michael has special needs that greatly impact his health and his level of independence. One of her goals is to reach out to other families who are facing similar parenting challenges in order to provide faith-based perspectives, resources, and overall encouragement in their unique walk with Christ.

The foremost passion she brings to her ministry is her desire to help people of all ages to come to know the love of Jesus Christ and experience His healing grace in the sacramental life of the Church. Her religious education experience ranges from teaching catechism for children aged pre-K through High School, serving as an elementary school teacher at an Orthodox Christian school with emphasis in Faith and Science curricula, and leading bible studies and retreats for children and adults of all ages.