Today we’d like to introduce you to Madison Schisler.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
Unity Bands began as a simple idea rooted in gratitude. During the height of the Coronavirus pandemic, our founder John Schirrippa saw firsthand how overworked, underpaid, and overlooked healthcare workers were. What started as a small gesture of appreciation, a way to show solidarity and support quickly grew into a mission driven nonprofit focused on uplifting essential healthcare workers and promoting credible public health information. We officially became a 501(c)(3) in 2022 and built our organization entirely with volunteers who shared the same passion for healthcare heroes. Since then, we’ve provided tangible relief through care items, comfortable shoes through our Air Unity campaign, and continue to make a change. Our donations, partnerships, and community engagement have continued to grow, even with limited resources. Today, Unity Bands is still fueled by that same energy, driven by strong leaders, volunteers, and supporters who believe in showing up for those who spend their lives providing and caring for others. Our journey is ongoing, but our purpose has always been clear: to stand in unity with healthcare heroes and to promote health education in the communities that need it the most.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Overall, its been a smooth and rewarding journey. We haven’t faced major struggles. Our mission, volunteers, and community support have helped everything grow naturally. Our only real challenge has been learning how to expand sustainably as a young organization.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I, Madison Schisler am a business management major at Goucher College, and I am passionate about developing strong marketing skills that help others, especially within mission driven organizations like Unity Bands. What I do: I support out team in crafting outreach and engagement strategies, help shape our messaging for campaigns, and work to strengthen the connection between donors, volunteers, and the healthcare workers we serve. What I’ m most proud of is being part of an organization that moves beyond awareness into action, I’ve seen firsthand how our care packages, wellness initiatives and public health education have real impact for frontline workers. Its a privilege to help elevate that work. What sets me and Unity Bands apart is our blend of humility and ambition: although we’re a young, all vonuteer nonprofit, we treat every campaign with business level rigor, smart marketing, and heartfelt authenticity.
John Schirrippa is a dedicated leader whose career reflects a commitment to service, operational excellence, and national security. Recently stepping into his new role as U.S. Cyber Command’s Special Staff Chief of Staff, John brings a wealth of experience shaped by years of disciplined leadership, strategic thinking, and mission focused work. His transition into his position highlights both his professional growth and his passion for supporting teams that safeguard the nation. Known for his integrity, reliability, and ability to lead with clarity and purpose, John continues to set an example of what it means to serve with both expertise and heart.
Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
My advice for finding a mentor is to stay curious and reach out to people who genuinely inspire you. Most meaningful connections I’ve made have came from asking thoughtful questions and being honest about my goals. As a business management student, I’ve learned that people are often more willing to help than you think. What works best for me is staying proactive, being compassionate, showing gratitude, and building relationships with people like John Schirrippa whose work and leadership I admire.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://unitybands.org/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unitybandsorg/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/80573258/admin/dashboard/
- Twitter: https://x.com/UnityBandsOrg
