Meet The Team
Founder & President
Amy Shaw
Amy is the visionary behind Just Add Creative, which began as the world’s first Free Craft Kit Gallery in 2021. She also created Palm Beach County’s first Little Free Art Gallery and has been a voice for the underserved for most of her adult life. A published children’s book author, accomplished artist, and dedicated community leader, Amy serves as Vice President of her local neighborhood association and has volunteered for numerous nonprofits. With a passion for art and service, she now channels her talents into leading Just Add Creative to empower and inspire diverse communities.
Vice President & Secretary of the Board
John Connolly
A retired firefighter and paramedic, John brings decades of dedication and service to the community. Over 20 years ago, he began a modest charitable effort to provide Thanksgiving turkeys to families in need, which has since grown into an event that serves nearly 300 families annually in partnership with the local IAFF 1842. Alongside his philanthropic work, John has also run successful small businesses in the medical industry. At Just Add Creative, John serves as Vice President and Secretary, ensuring that our governance is seamless and operations are mission-driven.
Vice President of Development & Treasurer of the Board
Henry Adkins
An expert in business-to-business sales and development, Henry brings his strategic mindset and passion for service to Just Add Creative. Having volunteered for a variety of nonprofits throughout his life, he now combines his business acumen with his dedication to the community, ensuring the organization has the resources needed to thrive. In his free time, Henry enjoys studying foreign languages and working on startup ventures, continually seeking new challenges and opportunities.
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Cultural & Artistic Programs Director
Jose Mendez
Jose R. Mendez is a self-taught artist, educator, and cultural advocate with a passion for fostering creativity and connection. As a co-founder of the Day of the Dead Lake Worth Beach & Taco Fiesta, he collaborates with nonprofits, government agencies, and private organizations to bring art and cultural events to life. Jose has worked with renowned institutions such as the Norton Museum of Art, the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County, and the Kravis Center, serving as a facilitator, adviser, and teaching artist for children and adults. His dedication to art and community continues to inspire those around him.
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Community & Government Relations Director
Andy Amoroso
Andy Amoroso brings years of leadership and public service to his role as Community and Government Relations Director at Just Add Creative. A native Floridian and long-time Lake Worth Beach resident, Andy served as City Commissioner for District 3 from 2011 to 2023. During his tenure, he played a key role in securing a $23 million grant to revitalize neighborhoods, attracting Publix and the Palm Beach County Cultural Council to the city, and developing the LULA arts program, which brought live-work art spaces, murals, and events to Lake Worth Beach.
As a small business owner, former president of his Neighborhood Association, and active advocate for the arts, Andy has built deep connections with local leaders, nonprofits, and community organizations. At Just Add Creative, he focuses on fostering partnerships and strengthening relationships with government and community stakeholders to support creative programs and initiatives.