Founder & CEO

With a love for Jesus, kids, and stories, Kaycee and her husband Pete had always planned to adopt. In 2016, while Kaycee was working as a youth pastor, they began dreaming about how to change the narrative around foster care adoption, particularly within faith communities. Five months later, The Reel Hope Project launched in Minnesota and they began telling the stories of waiting kids. In 2019, the Stanleys adopted their teenage son, whom Kaycee met through a Reel Hope Project video shoot. Kaycee and Pete have since welcomed three daughters into their family, and today - Kaycee leads the organization and her team as they expand The Reel Hope Project’s mission across the country.

Director of Operations + State Engagement

Abby joined The Reel Hope Project in 2019 and brings a combined 12+ years of nonprofit experience with foci in operations, community engagement, project management and communications. She also has 5+ years of experience supporting C-Suite Executives in the nonprofit, adoption, and philanthropic sectors. She is the sister of an adoptee and is passionate about serving under-resourced populations, specifically foster care youth and single, pregnant or parenting moms. Abby oversees Expansion efforts into new states, existing state partnerships, Operations, HR/Administration, and integrates all major functions of the organization. In 2022, she launched The Reel Hope Project in her home state of Wisconsin.

Executive Assistant + Office Manager

Kimberly has the perfect cross-section of administrative attention to detail and a creative passion for mission-based work. She joined The Reel Hope Project in 2023 after 10+ years of administrative support roles and 6+ years of nonprofit sector experience. As a mother of two daughters and long-time sponsorship coordinator for vulnerable children, Kimberly is passionate about fueling her skills to catalyze big-picture missions. She thrives in settings where she can create efficient work environments and organize on behalf of others, allowing them to focus on big picture endeavors.

Development + Events Manager

Erica joined The Reel Hope Project in 2023 with over 15 years of nonprofit development experience. As a mom of three, she is passionate about the welfare of kids and instilling a lifelong hope for the future through the power and stability of family. In her role as Development and Events Manager, Erica oversees The Reel Hope Project’s fundraising efforts. Erica strives to build and deepen a community of support to expand the life-changing impact of The Reel Hope Project.

Coordination Manager

From a young age, MacKenzie had a passion to see waiting kids find family. After several overseas experiences and the adoption of her son in 2017, she shifted her life professionally from being a nurse to walking with prospective adoptive families. MacKenzie was introduced to The Reel Hope Project at an event in 2016, just after its founding. She joined the team in 2023 and brings 10 combined years of experience as a nurse and adoption consultant. Her warmth, genuine care for others, and ability to multitask in high-energy environments serve her well as she now coordinates all kid videos. MacKenzie finds joy in working to plan special video shoot days for kids, showcasing their unique personalities and ensuring that they feel valued and seen.

Shoots Manager

As a Licensed Independent Clinical Social Worker (LICSW), Kayla utilizes her background in child protection case management and children’s mental health to create an environment where youth feel comfortable, confident, and celebrated during their video shoot. Kayla’s journey with the Reel Hope Project began in 2022 as an Event Speaker, evolved to that of Shoot Lead in 2024, and Shoots Manager in 2025. Her unwavering dedication for individuals and families drives her to hold space that honors both the beauty and intricacies that exist within the child welfare system. Kayla infuses every video shoot with passion, creativity, and joy, playing a vital role in capturing the vibrant stories of youth and families.