As part of The Forge Companies, Advocacy Trust is built on a shared belief that meaningful work starts with understanding the real challenges clients face. Our team is driven by more than trust administration—it’s guided by purpose, empathy, and a commitment to the people and families we serve.

Meet members of the Advocacy Trust team as they share the motivations behind their work and the experiences that inspire them to serve individuals and families every day.

Kate Maloney, President

As President of Advocacy Trust, Kate Maloney’s path began with an interest in social work, driven by a desire to help others. While her career ultimately led her to trust administration, that passion never changed.

For Kate, building meaningful client relationships and supporting individuals and families is both an honor and a privilege.

Jaclyn Berry, Chief Revenue Officer

Jaclyn Berry has always had a heart for people. Whether serving the unhoused in her community or supporting families through her work, her commitment to helping others has remained constant.

After navigating complex care needs as a parent, Jaclyn gained a deeper, personal understanding of the challenges many Advocacy Trust clients face. That experience continues to shape her work and reinforces her “why”—ensuring families feel supported, understood, and advocated for every step of the way.

Kelli Gardner, Chief Fiduciary Counsel

For Kelli Gardner, nothing is more fulfilling than using her skills and knowledge to help others. Throughout her legal career, she has worked closely with individuals with disabilities, their families, and their advisors to navigate the complexities of special needs trusts and public benefits.

Joining Advocacy Trust gave Kelli the opportunity to work alongside a passionate, knowledgeable team committed to finding real-world solutions for clients. Being part of an organization focused on advocacy and meaningful outcomes is central to her “why.”

Jasmine Walker, Senior Trust Manager

From the very beginning of her career, Jasmine Walker worked with court-created, special needs, and elder service trusts. Over time, she discovered her true calling in special needs trust administration.

For Jasmine, the ability to advocate for families and build meaningful client relationships brings a deep sense of purpose and fulfillment. Knowing she can make a difference in the lives of those she serves is what makes her work especially rewarding.

Amanda Luthy, Special Asset Manager

For Amanda Luthy, no two days in the trust industry are the same. Each day brings new challenges and opportunities to support clients in meaningful ways.

Amanda finds fulfillment in using her knowledge and experience to contribute to positive outcomes for those Advocacy Trust serves. She is also inspired by the optimism, competence, and compassion of her fellow team members, making collaboration and shared purpose central to her work.

Shawn Mitchell, Senior Trust Officer

After working in a traditional trust environment, Shawn Mitchell began to reflect on the impact of his work and the difference he wanted to make.

At Advocacy Trust, Shawn found his “why” in serving clients whose trusts play a critical role in their daily lives. Helping individuals navigate benefits and access resources they may not have known were available allows Shawn to make a meaningful difference—one that continues to inspire him every day.

Laura Schlesing, Trust Officer

Laura Schlesing’s journey to Advocacy Trust is shaped by personal experience and a deep desire to find purpose in her work. After stepping away from her finance career to care for her family through significant challenges, she returned to the industry with a renewed sense of direction.

At Advocacy Trust, Laura finds fulfillment in walking alongside clients with empathy, patience, and understanding during some of life’s most difficult moments. Being able to relate to clients and help guide them through complex, emotional processes is what makes her work truly meaningful.

Nick LaMorte, Trust Officer

Nick LaMorte’s “why” is rooted in his passion for helping others. Combining that passion with his interest in finance and trust services makes his work especially meaningful.

Surrounded by colleagues who share a deep commitment to clients, Nick finds fulfillment in providing support that creates real, lasting impact for individuals and families.

Chris Matthews, Trust Officer

Shaped by his parents’ example, Chris Matthews has always carried a desire to serve others. That foundation guides his work as a Trust Officer at Advocacy Trust.



Chris finds purpose in supporting individuals and families who have faced life-changing challenges. Being part of a team that provides meaningful services and long-term support allows him to make a lasting impact in the lives of those he serves.