Joanna was born in Poland and moved to the United States in her early twenties. She worked for over 13 years as a Senior Software Developer and Systems Analyst at Scholastic Publishing before stepping away from her career to become a full-time advocate and caregiver for her son, Max, who has autism. Joanna has learned deep patience, persistence, and the importance of respectfully advocating for her child when answers were hard to find. Joanna is married to Bogart, and together, they are continually inspired by the love, joy, and grace that Max radiates despite the many obstacles he faces.

IAC became the Kalatas’ church home shortly after they moved to Williamsburg in 2017. It was the first place that truly welcomed them — especially Max — with open arms. Joanna now serves on the Prayer Ministry and Meals teams, and she is eager to give back the same love and care her family has received. In her free time, Joanna enjoys British mysteries, baking, watching tennis with her husband, and spending quality time with her family and their beloved dog, Sparky, who brings constant joy to their home. She strives to live by the words of Mother Teresa: “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.”