CHA Strengthens Board with Addition of Three Visionary Members
June 16, 2025 - Hartford, CT | Community Housing Advocates (CHA), the parent organization of both Mercy Housing and Shelter and My Sisters' Place, is excited to strengthen its leadership team with the appointment of three new members to its Board of Directors.
Mary Flint: Hartford native Mary Flint is no stranger to our organization. She already plays a key role on CHA’s Finance and Investment Committees and brings valuable insight and experience to those committees. With over 20 years at Travelers Insurance, where she is a Senior Accountant, and as a licensed realtor with Vision Real Estate, Mary offers a unique perspective on the housing challenges our community faces. Her lived experience and professional insight make her a valued leader and champion of our mission.
Karen Matheson: Karen Matheson brings decades of leadership in finance, investments, and strategy from her 25+ year career at CIGNA and Lincoln Financial. A longtime supporter, Karen first joined the My Sisters’ Place Board in 2003, later serving as Treasurer and offering key insight during the formation of CHA. Even in retirement, she remains a vital voice on the Finance Committee, and we’re thrilled to welcome her back as an incoming Board member.
Irene Poinelli: Irene Poinelli brings a blend of nonprofit passion and corporate leadership to CHA’s Board of Directors. A member of both the Development and Hope & Home committees, Irene has already made a meaningful impact. With 14 years at Planned Parenthood and later as National VP of Sales in the hearing aid industry, she brings experience and strategic insight. Now retired, Irene devotes her time to her new grandson Logan Michael, her rescue dog Maxx and to causes she cares about, continuing her lifelong commitment to making a difference.
“Helping individuals and families experiencing poverty and homelessness find stability and independence is no small task,” said Kara Capone, CEO of Community Housing Advocates. “It takes more than just frontline work—it requires strong leadership and unwavering support at every level. That’s why we’re so grateful to welcome these passionate and accomplished individuals to our Board of Directors. They bring valuable expertise, fresh perspectives, and a deep commitment to our mission. We’re excited for the impact they’ll help us make.”
For additional information or to request interviews, contact Annette Scheidecker at 860-808-2044 or ascheidecker@mercyhousingct.org