Meet the Leaders Behind the Mission
At Kids On The Go, our impact starts with an exceptional team. From clinical expertise to community building, our leadership brings passion, experience, and heart to every program we offer. These dedicated professionals work year-round to ensure our mission is carried out with excellence—empowering children with special needs and creating inclusive spaces for growth, therapy, and connection.
Whether they’re organizing programs, building community partnerships, or personally supporting families, each team member plays a vital role in helping Kids On The Go thrive.
Kristy Piana Schena, M.S.,CCC-SLP
Founder/Executive Director
As the founder of Kids On The Go, Kristy has combined her passion for helping others to build a thriving organization that provides essential services—completely free of charge—to families in need. Her founding of Kids On The Go in 1999 has changed and enhanced the opportunities for children with special needs in Metro Detroit.
Kristy’s commitment extends beyond her nonprofit work. She actively supports the next generation of professionals by mentoring students in speech-language pathology and related fields, offering them valuable clinical exposure and hands-on experience with pediatric populations.
Her professional and community contributions have been recognized with several honors, including the Outstanding Alumni Award from Michigan State University’s College of Communication Arts & Sciences and the Grosse Pointe Chamber of Commerce Excellence in Nonprofit Management Award. Kristy also serves on numerous boards and councils, including the Michigan State University ComArtSci Alumni Board, Regina High School Board of Directors, Special Needs Alliance, and the SHARE Detroit Leadership Council.
Katie Shubnell
Development Manager
Katie Shubnell considers herself very blessed to be a part of the team at Kids On The Go. She has been in the role of development manager since 2018 where she assists with communication and fundraising initiatives that contribute to the growth and expansion of programs.
After graduating with her bachelor’s degree from Madonna University, Katie began working in philanthropy and was successful in raising funds to enhance medical services and create programs for community based healthcare organizations. In 2010, Katie obtained her Masters in Public Administration with a focus in Nonprofit Leadership from the University of Michigan. In addition to her role at Kids On The Go, Katie works with Daudlin Search, the recruiting and consulting firm founded by her father where enjoys engaging with clients in the nonprofit, education and healthcare sectors. Katie and her husband Kevin are the proud parents of five children.
Samantha Dittmer, COTAL
Registration and Program Coordinator
Ashley Bahr
Administrative and Development Associate
Ashley Bahr is excited to be a part of the Kids On The Go leadership team where she focuses on assisting with donor relations and human resources.
Ashley graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in elementary education. She has spent 15 years working with children and families in school and private settings to help meet their unique needs. She also has many years of experience as a volunteer in event coordinating and fundraising for local schools and the American Cancer Association’s Relay for Life. Ashley and her husband, Mike, are the proud parents of two girls.
Ready to Learn More or Get Involved?
We’d love to connect with you! Whether you’re a parent, partner, or supporter, we invite you to contact us or volunteer today! Join a growing, supportive community.