Board of Directors
Mary serves as the Outreach and Support Coordinator for Adoptive Families of Color at MARE. She and her husband, Jose, are proud parents of six children, including two they have adopted, and they are currently in the process of adopting their oldest sons. With four of their six children having experienced foster care, Mary is deeply committed to supporting youth in care and advocating for every child to feel valued, celebrated, and loved—especially on their special day.
Kashawn Little, Vice President
Kashawn McRavion-Little – “From Foster Youth to Social Worker”
Answering the call to support youth in care through a career in social work.
Kashawn McRavion-Little, originally from North Carolina and now based in Massachusetts, is dedicated to supporting children in care through his work as a social worker, business owner, and football coach. A believer in Christ and a practitioner of “Good Trouble,” Kashawn also embraces his roles as a brother, son, uncle, and loyal friend, living out his values with empathy and integrity.
In 2025, he was honored as a Local Lynn Black Excellence recipient and is actively involved with the North Shore Juneteenth Association, SEIU Local 509, and the Vice President of the Gifted Crate. Kashawn’s life and career reflect a deep commitment to service, mentorship, and community empowerment.
Jose Nogueras, Operations Director
Jose brings 20 years of logistics experience to managing operations for The Gifted Crate. As a father of six children—four of whom were once in foster care—Jose has the heart and insight to understand what each child we serve truly hopes for.
Robert Rivers, Events Director & Lazy Lobster Race Director
Robert Rivers is a community leader, entrepreneur, and Air Force veteran with a passion for empowering others through service, education, and wellness. As Events Director of The Gifted Crate, Robert helps guide initiatives that uplift and inspire youth, families, and communities across Massachusetts. He also serves as Race Director of the Lazy Lobster 5 Miler in Onset, MA, a celebrated coastal road race that blends community, culture, and fitness.
With more than two decades of leadership experience, Robert has built a reputation for innovation, collaboration, and a commitment to creating spaces where people can thrive. His work as founder of We Run These Streetz reflects his mission to build stronger communities through wellness, wealth, wisdom, and work.
David Whynot, Board Member
David Whynot is the founder and managing member of Lo Adoro Italian Market LLC, based in Sandwich, MA. Through his connections with community members, David has facilitated and helped coordinate multiple charitable efforts, including donations to the Gifted Crate, The Sandwich Food Pantry, The Boston Higashi School, and helped support several local families, employees and small business owners after their businesses were impacted by fires. He has also provided opportunities for adults with disabilities and local youth by featuring their artistry or homemade products in his market and promoting their work. David is a Navy Veteran and has previously served as an active member of The Rotary Club, the New Bedford Homeless Advocates, and currently serves as the Chair of the Boston Higashi School Parent Advisory Board. A father to a blended family of 8, he is honored to be supporting the work of the Gifted Crate.
Marissa Pike, Board Member
Marissa Pike was born in New Orleans and entered foster care at age 12, spending the next 10
years navigating a system shaped by instability, homelessness, and the impact of her parents’
struggles with addiction and mental illness. Out of that hardship came a deep sense of purpose.
In 2023, she became a foster parent, determined to use her story to create change. Since then,
she has fostered over 160 children and is currently in the process of adopting two.
She holds degrees in Early Childhood Education and Criminal Justice, along with a certificate in
Developmental Disabilities.
Her advocacy extends beyond the home, as she serves on the
board of Gifted Crate, volunteers as a foster care reviewer, works as a first responder, and gives
back to her community in every way she can.
She believes there’s nothing easy in life that’s truly good. Yet the rewards of healing, love, and
purpose that have come from her journey are greater than any of the struggles she’s endured.
Erica Trask, Board Member
Erica Trask is a family law attorney with Callahan, Inman, & Bonzagni. In her practice, Erica has witnessed firsthand the importance of ensuring that every child feels seen, celebrated, and supported — especially during difficult times. She frequently works with families who are involved with the Department of Children and Families and her firm frequently assists adoptive families navigate the Probate & Family Court.
Passionate about community service and child advocacy, Erica is proud to support the work of the Gifted Crate. She believes that small acts of kindness can create lasting impacts and that every child deserves to feel special. Outside of her professional work, Erica is a devoted mother who is deeply committed to strengthening and uplifting her local community.
