Mara Natkins, M.P.H.

In her work as a consultant to non-profit, public health, hospital-based and academic organizations, Mara focuses on grant writing, editing, planning, and program development support. Her clients in the Philadelphia area have included the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Elizabeth Blackwell Health Center for Women, Health Federation of Philadelphia, Thomas Jefferson University's Center for Integrative Medicine, and the Philadelphia Department of Public Health. She earned her Bachelor of Arts, with Honors, in English Literature from the State University of New York at Binghamton, and her Masters of Public Health from Yale University School of Medicine.

As the director of program development for Breastcancer.org, Mara is responsible for working with the Breastcancer.org team to identify the organization's highest priorities for new and continued funding, as well as prospective foundation partners to support these programs. She conducts research on prospective funding sources; reviews program ideas with both Breastcancer.org and foundation staff; and develops funding proposals to broaden the scope and depth of Breastcancer.org programs.

"My work with Breastcancer.org is enormously satisfying," Mara says, "because I believe so deeply in our mission, and have the opportunity to work alongside a team of bright, passionate, creative and good-hearted people. It's a rare privilege to join this talented group of people and make a positive difference in the lives of women affected by breast cancer. Two dear friends of mine were diagnosed with breast cancer just as I began working with Breastcancer.org. As they move through treatment and towards full recovery, I'm so glad that they—and millions of other women—have this source of information, support, and hope. I do my work in honor of loved ones who have been affected by breast cancer, and I am continually inspired by their strength."