Teya Lowe
Second Chance Garage
Teya, Office Manager at Second Chances Garage, is often the first warm and welcoming voice that clients encounter as they begin their journey toward transportation independence. With deep roots in the automotive world—having worked in the car dealership industry for years and coming from a family of dealership owners and buyers—Teya brings a wealth of knowledge and professional insight to her role.
Since joining Second Chances Garage, Teya has not only streamlined operations and procedures but also expanded the organization’s reach by building meaningful partnerships with dealerships across Frederick. Her efforts led to a major milestone this year: securing the organization’s first-ever car donations directly from three local dealerships.
Teya’s drive to serve comes from a deeply personal place. As a child, she watched her single mother make the difficult decision to forgo social service benefits and work 3 jobs in order to keep her car—their family’s lifeline. That experience shaped Teya’s unwavering belief in the power of mobility and dignity. She carries that compassion forward every day, walking beside clients, listening to their stories, and ensuring they are matched with a vehicle that truly meets their needs—not just any car.
Teya’s impact goes far beyond logistics—she is a lifeline, a listener, and a bridge to hope. She embodies the spirit of the Touching Lives Award.
Teya exemplifies the heart and soul of Second Chances Garage. Her dedication, compassion, and ability to create positive change for both our clients and the community is unmatched. She leads by example, showing us every day that it’s not just about providing second chances, but about giving people the tools, support, and belief in themselves to thrive.”
– Tonya Hatosy-Ster, Executive Director
Learn More About Second Chance Garage
Tessa Joseph
United Way of Frederick County
Tessa Joseph is the Resource Development and Outreach Manager for United Way of Frederick County, where she has been making an impact for nearly two years. Starting as a coordinator, she now leads social media strategy, creates marketing materials, and shares success stories to help the community understand the organization’s mission and impact.
Tessa plays a key role in managing volunteer programs and works closely with local nonprofits and businesses to coordinate initiatives like Day of Action, Stuff the Bus, and the Unity Campaign. Under her leadership, the Day of Action has grown significantly—last year featuring 37 projects across the county—with plans to expand even further at this fall’s event on October 3.
She is especially proud of her work supporting the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) community and is passionate about building connections and increasing access to resources. Originally from New York, Tessa says working in the nonprofit sector has been a rewarding way to get involved locally and make a lasting difference alongside a team of equally dedicated changemakers.
Tessa’s passion for helping others and strengthening our community makes her an incredible asset on our team. Her dedication to our clients and innovative approach to engagement make a lasting impact. We are honored to recognize her with the Touching Lives Award.
– Ken Oldham, Executive Director
Learn More About United Way of Frederick County
Brittnee Bulagay
Wild Sprouts Inc
Brittnee Bulagay has been working as an outdoor instructor at Wild Sprouts Inc. for about a year. She serves as a lead teacher for the homeschool co-op, guiding school-aged children through outdoor learning experiences that blend academic support with social-emotional growth.
At Wild Sprouts, she works with students ages 2–8 in a collaborative, family-friendly setting that welcomes children of all abilities—especially those who may not thrive in a traditional classroom. Whether helping a child build friendships, explore their interests, or simply enjoy learning again, Brittnee is passionate about meeting each child where they are and supporting their journey.
A former public school teacher, Brittnee began homeschooling her own children after taking a break to raise her growing family. Now, with her kids also attending Wild Sprouts, she values the rare opportunity to learn and grow alongside them in a community-centered program that celebrates whole families.
For Brittnee, one of the most rewarding parts of her work is hearing from parents who say their child—once struggling—is now excited to learn, building friendships, and thriving. “Sometimes it’s not the child that’s the problem,” she says. “It’s the environment. And here, they finally find where they fit.”
Brittnee Bulagay is a true force for good – her dedication to children, families, and the community is unmatched. Whether as a teacher, foster parent, or advocate, she pours her heart into everything she does, making a lasting impact on everyone around her.
– Megan Bell, Executive Director
Learn More About Wild Sprouts Inc
Frederick Chamber Insights is a news outlet of the Frederick County Chamber of Commerce. For more information about membership, programs and initiatives, please visit our website.