Aisling Solarek

Executive Director

Aisling (Ashling) Solarek was born and raised in Dublin Ireland. She traveled to America and received her bachelor's in education from Maranatha University in Wisconsin. This is where she met her husband James and decided to stay in America.She’s the mom to six children and a golden doodle named Curry. Aisling has been in the Foster/adoption community for the past ten years. She has adopted 4 of her children and has learned a lot about what is needed to love and support families, especially children from hard places. Aisling loves God and others and considers her life mission to make sure children know they are loved and safe.
She loves to travel to new places and wishes every day was summer. Aisling is a foster mom and understands that seven kids are probably her max! That is why she founded Michiana Family Center, to train and equip others to mentor and love the foster care community alongside her and her family.

James Solarek

Director of Operations

James has served in church and non-profit ministry for over 20 years. He has his master’s degree in Bible and most recently served as Executive Pastor at Community Church in Edwardsburg, MI. James loves God and loves people. He enjoys order and helping everyone around him accomplish their tasks in a timely manner with clear communication. He brings his knowledge and experience to Michiana Family Center in a unique way with 10 years of experience as a foster/adoptive Dad. James is married to his beautiful Irish bride Aisling, and together they have six children. James is a Disney fan and loves vacationing with his family and all things Ohio State – Go Buckeyes!

Esther Ollar

Case Manager (IN)

Esther is a very simple human and like many others, is uncomfortable trying to summarize her life in a short web worthy bio :) She loves God, her family, and people. She enjoys using art therapeutically to help others process through the challenges of life. As humans, there are a lot of adversities we face on our journey here on earth. It’s comforting to know that there are good people who want to help and walk alongside you. Esther’s ambition is to be a trustworthy person who loves others the way God has graciously loved her. 

Nombuso Shawa

Case Manager (MI)

Nombuso shares her love and joy of the Lord with others through her heart for service. She began volunteering with children of all ages in middle school, and has dedicated her time to serving individuals from all walks of life since then. Nombuso is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Social Work at Saint Mary's College. She hopes to continue making a difference by loving others as well as learning and growing with them. Outside of her studies and work, Nombuso enjoys playing pickleball with friends, binge-watching crime fiction series, and spending time with her cat, Applesauce!