We are a diverse group of passionate individuals, driven by the belief that every child deserves a bright and joyful future. Together, we’re committed to creating real, lasting change from the ground up.
Martin Peter – Project Manager, Northern Nigeria
Martin Peter is an engineer dedicated to using technology for social change. After a career in tech, Martin transitioned to humanitarian work to address crises in Nigeria, where he has spent most of his life. His experience includes roles with Action Against Hunger and Mercy Corps.
Gregor Elgee – Global Operations Deputy
Gregor joined Global Roots to advance its mission in northern Nigeria. Currently, he enhances Global Roots’ social media presence to boost fundraising and amplify the organization’s message. Gregor earned his BA in Creative Writing and Anthropology from Western Washington University. His experiences include interviewing Tibetan refugees, canoeing through conflict zones, and teaching English in China.
Rick Montgomery – Founder, Executive Director, and Board Member
Rick Montgomery graduated with a degree in International Studies from the University of Washington. Inspired by a Tibetan woman who had adopted more than 250 orphaned children, Rick founded Global Roots in 2007.
Anthony Kikondu – Country Director, Kenya
Anthony Kikondu is an accomplished photographer with a focus on his native Kenya. Joining Global Roots in 2012, Anthony oversees supply and logistical operations across Kenya, ensuring that every dollar sent to our partners is used effectively. Before Global Roots, Anthony worked as a photographer for Transparency International and managed safaris for CC Africa.
Clint Montague – Secretary/Treasurer
Clint Montague graduated with a degree in Economics from Princeton University and began a career in management consulting. He later enrolled at MIT Sloan, after which he transitioned to private equity. His commitment to helping orphaned children solidified during his travels in Northern Pakistan. Now working for a private equity firm, Clint assists Global Roots with oversight and project management.
Sheila Capastany – Strategic Advisor
Sheila Capastany has extensive experience working with diverse communities, government, social services, public health, and education sectors. She served as Executive Director of Open Arms Perinatal Services, gaining national recognition for community-based services. Her expertise includes strategic planning, budgeting, policy development, and designing health and human services outcomes.
Jim Gearhart – Board Member
Jim Gearhart has been with Quorum Review since 2005, holding various roles. Before joining Quorum, Jim served as a Foreign Service Officer with the US Department of State. His diverse assignments included roles in Thailand, Hong Kong, Uzbekistan, Washington, D.C., Malta, and Panama. Jim graduated from the University of Washington’s Henry Jackson School of International Studies.
Mark Buchanan – Board Member
Mark Buchanan spent five years on the Cisco Global Brand team, focusing on transforming the Cisco experience and driving meaningful results. Before Cisco, Mark was the Creative Director at Oregon Public Broadcasting. He graduated with Dean’s honors from the University of California at Berkeley and has received awards for improving customer experience at Cisco.