Meet the Board

Margaret applies many years of business insight to help the foundation truly make a difference. She continues the philanthropic legacy of her grandparents, which she witnessed firsthand as a small child. She learned from them how to treat all people with dignity.

Margaret is a Brand, Communications & Strategy Consultant, and an Emeritus Board Member for the nation-wide Kids In Need Foundation.

“Being involved with our members, partners, students, residents and beneficiaries of our philanthropy is soul-fully satisfying!”

Upon leaving military service where he earned a Bachelor’s degree as well as two Master’s degrees, Lou served as Chair in national, state, and local volunteer organizations where he became widely known as a growth agent while turning under-achieving volunteer organizations into widely acclaimed successes. Being the brother of the two “special grandchildren” of Charles and Salome Reymann that ultimately led to The Reymann Foundation, Lou welcomes the opportunity to assist the Board in achieving the structure, personnel, and finances the Foundation will need to meet its near-and long-term challenges.

“It was the birth of my siblings, Russell and Lucille, which ultimately resulted in the community-focused aspirations of our family’s Foundation. I am pleased to have the opportunity to serve on the Board, and make a difference for individuals with disabilities.”

I am honored to continue the proud legacy of the Reymann family through my involvement with the Charles and Salome Reymann Foundation.  Regardless of where I’ve lived, I know that the bond within the family is strong, and the love for each other is great. My grandparents embodied the American dream as immigrants, arriving with little more than a desire to achieve through hard work and sacrifice.  Their example of caring for their family and giving back to their community has had a direct impact on my life and that of my small family. 

“Tolerance, forgiveness and acceptance for everyone is essential for success”

Gia is a nurturer, as demonstrated through her long career in the health and services field. She is also a leader, as shown by her fairly recent participation in Leadership Akron, Class 39. She believes in volunteerism, with involvement in The United Way of Summit & Medina Counties, Women’s Leadership Council, Access Women’s Shelter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Torchbearers Akron, and many more worthy causes. But perhaps the most remarkable thing about Gia is that she is a mother of a child with Autism, and keenly understands the unique challenges presented to individuals with disabilities. Advocating for her son is a passion for Gia, and she does so in the most loving way.

Gia found her way to The Charles and Salome Reymann Foundation through her strong professional network, bringing a proven record of contributions to many non-profit organizations. This mom is a dynamo, and we are very fortunate to have her serving on our Board of Directors. We are anxious to make an even greater impact in our community with her help and support.

“I have a passion for ‘serving the underserved’– helping people with disabilities in our communities to live life to the fullest. They deserve a chance to live a quality life.”

A long-time member of St. Matthew Catholic Church in Ellet and resident of Greater Akron, Joe Sokol is very familiar with the Reymann Home and Foundation. In fact, in his words, “I can’t ever remember NOT knowing the Reymann family”!

So when asked to become one of our Ambassadors a few years ago, Joe graciously accepted. And since then, he has supported our fundraisers, rolled-up his sleeves, and got involved with our mission. Now, with a bit more free time, he has joined our board of directors as a trustee.

Joe has enjoyed a long career in Sales, and in meeting him, it is clear that his talents fit the role. Personable, friendly and interesting, Joe brings many skills to the Foundation. He is a graduate of Ashland University with a focus on Business, Management and Marketing. He is a former member of the Finance Council and Pastoral Council at St. Matthew Parish, and currently serves on the Pastoral Council at St. Martin of Tours.

Joe, and his wife Kris, are living their dream in a log cabin in Medina, Ohio. They have four children and many grand children to share in their slice of heaven.

“There is a bond that goes back to my grade school days…and I anticipate supporting the Reymann Foundation into the future through time and treasure.”