For more than three decades, Communities for a Healthy Bay has united individuals to foster a clean and thriving Commencement Bay. Our collective efforts aim to enhance the well-being of both our community and the broader ecosystem within the Salish Sea.
As an organization rooted in science, we recognize the unparalleled value of factual knowledge. Actively engaging in on-the-ground and on-water research, we strive to identify the best solutions for addressing the most critical environmental challenges facing Commencement Bay, and the waters of the South Sound.
Our impactful collaborations with individuals, government entities, businesses, and tribes enable us to provide pragmatic and inclusive environmental leadership that builds lasting, positive change.
We firmly believe in the essential role of sound science as the foundation for effective action. Utilizing rigorous scientific reviews, we drive impartial policies that confront the detrimental impacts of pollution, climate change, and unsafe development, that threaten the health and safety of our environment and community.
Mission
To protect Commencement Bay, the waters of the South Sound, and the diversity of life they sustain.
Our Vision, Our Future
We believe that clean water, fresh air, and a healthy environment are essential for life to flourish. We strive for a resilient future anchored in environmental justice, social equity, and shared growth. We actively work together to empower individuals and communities, driving impactful transformations and nurturing a lively, resilient ecosystem.
Core Values
Communities for a Healthy Bay’s work is motivated by a deep passion for the natural environment and our community. It is characterized by a strong commitment to rigorous scientific principles, strategic action, and organizational excellence. We firmly believe that collective efforts enable us to achieve greater impact. Our core values are outlined below:
- Stewardship and Sustainability: Recognizing the bond between a thriving environment and community well-being, we protect our environment and its intricate connections, ensuring a flourishing legacy for generations.
- Scientific Integrity: Our decisions are rooted in clear and accurate science, ensuring the health of our waterways and our community. Operating with transparency and dedication, we remain focused on delivering impactful solutions.
- Community Connection: Embracing, listening, educating, and collaborating with our diverse community is central to our mission. Each voice strengthens our collective action.
- Advocacy and Accountability: We stand up for rules that keep our community and nature safe. Championing fair policies, we hold polluters accountable and prioritize our community’s health and rights.
- Equity and Inclusion: We believe in justice for both nature and people. Striving for a balance, we address the unequal environmental impacts, aligning our actions with the broader goal of challenging systems that harm our environment and burden vulnerable communities.
Our Staff
Melissa Malott
Executive Director
A lawyer by training, Melissa is passionate about bringing people together to identify solutions to achieve clean water, a key component to healthy and thriving communities. Prior to joining Communities for a Healthy Bay, she served as the appointed assistant on clean water and sustainability for Dane County, WI, and directed the water program for Clean Wisconsin, the state’s largest environmental nonprofit. Melissa successfully advanced clean water policy throughout Wisconsin and was instrumental in crafting the state’s new phosphorus rule and securing the signing of the Great Lakes Compact. After receiving her law degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, she co-founded a nonprofit law firm, Community Justice Inc., which offers legal services to low-income people. Melissa’s work is devoted to securing environmental protections for vulnerable communities.
Katy Stone
Development Director
A Tacoma native and passionate outdoorswoman, Katy spent the bulk of her childhood exploring the beaches and forests of the Key Peninsula where her family home is located. She received her degree in Environmental Policy from the Huxley College of the Environment at Western Washington University and has spent much of her life championing environmental causes in the Puget Sound and surrounding areas. Over the last 10 years Katy has served in development positions for several Tacoma area non-profits and educational institutions including Charles Wright Academy, Two Waters Arts Alliance, Tacoma Waldorf School, and most recently Museum of Glass.
Ayla Janukajtis
Communications Director
Ayla Janukajtis brings a background in strategic communications, business management, and visual storytelling to CHB as our Communications Director. She will focus on making science accessible and approachable to empower our community and engage stakeholders in building a sustainable future. Previously, Ayla led community engagement and marketing campaigns for local organizations including the Seattle Chocolate Company, Museum of Glass, and most recently Bargreen Ellingson.
Logan Danzek
Policy Manager
Originally from Southern California, Logan Danzek began his journey with environmental conservation as a nature camp counselor and national park visitor. An Evans School graduate, he is deeply versed in climate policy and environmental justice. Previously, his work helped guide King County toward a circular economy strategy that centers both sustainability and ensuring a just transition. As CHB’s Policy Manager, Logan is focused on Tacoma’s waterways, blending science with community advocacy to combat climate change. His perspective unites environmental stewardship with public health to strive for a sustainable and just future.
Stefanie Stockwell
Clean Water Advocate
Hailing from Southern Maine, Stefanie Stockwell brings a wealth of experience and passion to her role as Clean Water Advocate. She holds a BA and MS in Education, along with a JD with an Environmental Concentration from Stetson University College of Law. Her experiences as a middle school science teacher and internships with organizations like Ocean Conservancy and the Hillsborough County Environmental Protection Commission, combined with a love for outdoor activities, sparked a career focused on environmental advocacy. At CHB, Stefanie is dedicated to safeguarding water resources, ensuring they remain clean and accessible for both communities and the ecosystems that depend on them.
Wendy Bremner
Community Education Coordinator
With over 25 years dedicated to youth outreach in diverse environments, Wendy Bremner joins CHB as the Community Education Coordinator to enhance our youth programs. Combining her expertise in Theater, Agriculture, and ASL/Deaf Culture, Wendy is passionate about merging social, food, and environmental justice into transformative experiences for young individuals. Her track record includes spearheading on-campus gardens that directly serve educational institutions and earning the “Be The Change Award” in 2018 for her exceptional mentorship. Believing in the power of empathy and group efforts, she has facilitated poignant interactions with youths in serene natural settings. Beyond her professional commitment, Wendy is a proud mother of two, an avid foodie, and an enthusiast of yoga, birding, and gardening. At CHB, Wendy eagerly anticipates amplifying educational outreach and championing clean waterway initiatives. Her mission: to empower the next generation through education and environmental advocacy.
