Our Staff

Staff members of Building a Bridge come from all walks of life to live with, work for, and learn from people with disabilities. They believe strongly in the ideal of service and in the mission of The Bridge. They want to integrate the values of their personal lives with the ideals of their working lives.

Heinz Kramp, President, Resident Counselor
In 1958 I immigrated from Germany to a research post at the State University of Iowa. Through my commitment to persons with disabilities I founded Innisfree in 1971 and Building a Bridge in 1991 in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Daniela Ghaida, MD, Executive Director
I obtained my medical degree in Germany and then pursued a clinical career, teaching, and research. A dedication to helping people, along with my interest in organizational development, brought me to Building a Bridge in the beginning of 2007. My commitment is to support everyone in Building a Bridge in any way I can to enable them to live their lives to the fullest.

Ellen and Malcolm Richardson, Resident Counselors
Malcolm worked for two years at Innisfree Village and now nearly seven years with Building a Bridge. Ellen and her two teenage children joined Malcolm’s and the Bridge’s life over four years ago.

They say: Over these years, we have formed wonderful and strong relationships with the residents and their families. Outside of our commitment for Building a Bridge, we enjoy reading, movies, music, and dancing. Ellen takes also courses to get a teaching degree.

Karen Dame, volunteer Resident Counselor
I am the relative of a Bridge resident. When I am not volunteering at Building a Bridge, I live in Albemarle County with my husband and two border collies. I wish that programs with missions like that of Building a Bridge existed in every community and in an abundance and affordability equal to need for them.

Daniela and Guido Kramp, Resident Counselors
Every year for 10 years we came from Germany to spent several weeks of our vacation in Charlottesville with Heinz and everyone in Building a Bridge. A few years ago, we started to think about living in the US and what it would mean for us. We also discussed with Heinz to work for Building a Bridge.

After looking at this possibility from many aspects, we decided to take this adventurous step. Winning the green card lottery came like a sign and supported our decision. We are now committed to a new life with a career change and are excited to be part of this community.

Joan Bullard, Staff Aide
I met Heinz over 30 years ago and worked with him before at Innisfree. When he founded The Bridge, I chose to join this community. Now, I enjoy helping the houses while spending time with the other “Bridgers.”

Timo Giersch, prospective Intern

Andrew Perkins, Finance and Bookkeeping
I joined Building a Bridge in 1996 with the original intent of working part-time for only one year. Ten years later, I am still here because I believe in the mission of Building a Bridge. Although most of my work is done remotely I always look forward to meeting Heinz and Daniela at Park Street because it gives me the opportunity to interact with our residents.

Patricia Moore, Art Therapist
I have been fortunate to know Heinz for twenty years, and to see the development of this organization. The art program encourages everyone to express themselves creatively, to catch up with each other’s week, to share feelings, concerns, and successes. Each person is eager to learn and develop their skills, and to challenge themselves. They enjoy the art process and are proud of their completed projects.