Meet our Board of Directors

Judith Bender-Hutton

Judith Bender-Hutton, Founder and President of Keeping Kids Safe. Graduated Cuma sum laude with my Bachelor’s in Social Work from the University of Findlay and obtained my License in Social Work. In addition, I am an Adoption Assessor. I have worked in the Foster Care and Adoption field for the past 26 years. I have raised two children, Brandon & Aaron and enjoy my two grandchildren! I also enjoy boating and traveling.

Jen Carpenter

Born in Findlay, Ohio, and a graduate of Vanlue High School, I am the Executive Vice
President of Hancock Federal Credit Union. I have worked at HFCU for 25 years,
helping individuals and families build financial security and supporting our mission,
vision, and values.
Married to my husband, Shawn, and the proud mother of two daughters, I come from a
family devoted to public service. My husband and daughter both serve in law
enforcement, reinforcing my belief in protecting and supporting those in need.
I enjoy spending time with my family, reading, shopping, and playing pickleball.
I am honored to contribute to a mission that ensures every child in foster care receives
the care, support, and stability they deserve.

Eileen Rucki

Eileen Rucki retired in 2022 after working almost four decades in education and student
advocacy. Born and raised in Olmsted Falls, OH (outside of Cleveland). Began professional
career in special education and social work before moving to Findlay in 1999. Has worked in
both the private and public sectors in a variety of areas of education and at all levels,
kindergarten through university. Most recently served as the Director of International
Education/Study Abroad at the University of Findlay. Volunteers with the American Red Cross.

Married for 39 years to Jim, a former high school teacher and longtime coach. Raised four
children who now, as professionals, live in various locations throughout the country. Enjoys the
priceless blessing of one (+?) grand-child!

Feels humbled and honored to serve on the board of Keeping Kids Safe, Inc. as a champion for
children in support of the mission to “empower children to thrive emotionally, socially,
cognitively, physically and/or independently.”

Michael Scoles

Mike’s passion for children and families involved in the foster care system has
developed from his experiences as an educator of more than thirty years in the local
community. Mike was a longtime classroom teacher and school counselor at Liberty-
Benton Schools prior to moving to Findlay City Schools where he has served the district
as a Findlay High School counselor, principal at Lincoln Elementary School, and interim
assistant superintendent during the 2022-2023 school year. In his current role, Mike is
responsible for student academic and mental health services as the counselor at
Millstream Career Center. Mike is also a longtime lecturer at Bluffton University where
he teaches graduate courses in education.
 
A native of Findlay and Hancock County, Mike holds degrees in education, school
counseling and school administration from the University of Findlay and the University
of Dayton. He also holds a doctorate in education policy and leadership studies from
Bowling Green State University. When classes are not in session, Mike enjoys cooking,
participating in theater productions, expanding his skills on a number of musical
instruments, attending rock and roll concerts (especially enjoying those of classic era
rock bands), and riding his Gold Wing.