Thomas Lavella

President & Founder

Thomas Lavella is the founder and president of the Positively Impacting Tanzania (PIT) Foundation, created from his passion for educational equity and community empowerment in East Africa. His first trip to Tanzania in 2022 left a lasting impression, inspiring him to take action to improve opportunities for underserved communities through access to quality education.

Prior to starting the foundation, Thomas co-founded Physical Industry Training, a successful personal training and Olympic-style weightlifting facility in Pennsylvania. With over a decade of experience in health and fitness, he brings the same discipline, leadership, and vision to his nonprofit work.

Together with business partner and Vice President Mark Matolo, Thomas helped launch the Matolo & Lavella Visionary Leadership Academy in Arusha. Under his leadership, the foundation has already sponsored 12 children and is laying the groundwork for long-term growth, always with the belief that investing in children is the most powerful way to build a brighter future.

Ernie Huff

Founding Member

Ernie Huff became a founding member of the Positively Impacting Tanzania (PIT) Foundation after his first trip to Arusha in August 2024. Moved by the people he met and inspired by Tom Lavella’s passion and initiative, Ernie knew he wanted to be part of something larger than himself—something that not only gave back in a meaningful way, but also had the potential to grow and evolve over time.

For Ernie, joining PIT wasn’t just about volunteering; it was about building a movement alongside someone he shared a personal history with. The opportunity to support a cause that connected both to global impact and personal roots made the experience especially meaningful. Being part of PIT from the ground up—and helping shape its values, vision, and future—was something he felt deeply called to do.

In addition to his work with PIT, Ernie serves as a Workplace Safety Specialist at Penn State University, where he focuses on creating safe, healthy environments for employees and students. He brings that same level of care, structure, and compassion to his role in PIT.

Ernie is excited to continue helping PIT grow and reach more lives—believing strongly that to give back while you're here, and to do it in collaboration with others, is one of the most rewarding things a person can do.

Mark Richard Matolo

Co-Founder & Vice President

Mark Richard Matolo is the co-founder and vice president of the Positively Impacting Tanzania (PIT) Foundation. With a degree in Architecture and five years of construction experience, he brings valuable expertise in infrastructure development, paired with nonprofit leadership and program management skills. His ability to combine technical knowledge with community-driven initiatives makes him a key force in the foundation’s mission.

Over the past several years, Mark has led projects that directly improved the lives of children and families in Tanzania. His accomplishments include building dormitories and kitchens for orphanages, coordinating medical outreach programs, and mobilizing student groups from international universities. His fluency in English and strong public-speaking ability allow him to connect with diverse partners and inspire support for lasting change.

Passionate about philanthropy, Mark is committed to creating opportunities for others to give back in meaningful ways. From women’s empowerment and healthcare programs to education and infrastructure projects, he works tirelessly to ensure that every effort contributes to a stronger, more equitable future for Tanzanian communities.