Community Heart & Soul® Welcomes Three New Team Members To Support National Growth and Community Engagement
Shelburne, VT (November 10, 2026) — Community Heart & Soul is pleased to announce the addition of three new staff hirings: Josh Kaiel, Program Associate; Kush Sharma, Market Development Associate; and Miranda Degreenia, Operations & Communications Coordinator. These new staff members bring expertise in community development, partnership building, and communications to Community Heart & Soul as the organization continues to expand its national reach in helping to build stronger, healthier, and more economically vibrant small cities and towns.
Credit: Erin Ninehouser Photography
Josh Kaiel joins Community Heart & Soul with more than 25 years of experience coaching, mentoring, and supporting individuals, teams, and communities. Most recently, he served as Director of Community Development at Innovia Foundation, based in Spokane, Washington, where he played an important role in expanding the Community Heart & Soul program throughout Eastern Washington and North Idaho. His experience working with community foundations, local leaders, and residents provides valuable perspective as Community Heart & Soul continues to grow its nationwide network of coaches and community partners.
As Program Associate, Kaiel helps facilitate the organization’s comprehensive Coach Training Program, mentors and supports certified Coaches, and works alongside partners and communities implementing the Community Heart & Soul model. He also contributes to curriculum development, professional learning opportunities, and the exchange of best practices across the national Heart & Soul network.
Credit: Erin Ninehouser Photography
Kush Sharma brings a distinctive perspective on community and the importance of building meaningful connections across different cultures and experiences. Sharma is a graduate of Bates College, and is pursuing his Masters of Social Work at the University of Vermont. His background in education, community involvement, and the performing arts brings a people-centered approach to the organization’s efforts to build relationships and expand opportunities for resident-driven community engagement.
In his role as Market Development Associate, Sharma helps Community Heart & Soul identify and cultivate new partnerships with community foundations, nonprofit organizations, and municipal leaders through initiatives designed to introduce communities and philanthropic partners to the Community Heart & Soul model.
Credit: Erin Ninehouser Photography
Miranda Degreenia is a University of Vermont alumna, earning a Bachelor of Science in Community and International Development and a Master of Public Administration. She brings a combination of academic training, community development experience, and commitment to rural communities that aligns closely with the organization’s mission. Before joining Community Heart & Soul, she supported rural community research initiatives and disaster recovery efforts in Vermont. Most recently, she worked at the Bixby Memorial Free Library in Vergennes, Vermont, where she supported programming, marketing, and community outreach.
As Operations & Communications Coordinator, Degreenia plays a central role in supporting the organization’s daily operations, communications, and administrative functions. Her responsibilities include coordinating meetings and events, supporting staff and partners, maintaining organizational systems, and assisting with the administration of Community Heart & Soul’s Seed Grant Program.
“As more communities seek ways to build trust, increase civic participation, and create shared visions for their futures, Community Heart & Soul remains focused on helping residents become active partners in shaping local decisions and driving lasting impact. The addition of these talented new team members reflects our continued investment in the people and resources needed to support our growing national network. As a proud University of Vermont alumnus, I’m especially excited to welcome young professionals with strong connections to UVM who share our passion for strengthening communities here in Vermont and across the U.S.,” said Mark Sherman, President of Community Heart & Soul.
About Community Heart & Soul
Community Heart & Soul, a nonprofit organization, builds stronger, healthier, and more economically vibrant small cities and towns across the United States. In addition to promoting the Community Heart & Soul model, the organization trains and supports a nationwide network of certified coaches who provide training and guidance to over 140 communities. https://www.communityheartandsoul.org
