We talk a lot about food here on the blog, but today we’re introducing you to someone from a local non-profit that helps feed over 1200 housebound senior citizens every single day. Elderly in the OS who would otherwise go hungry without the assistance of staff and volunteers alike at Meals On Wheels RI. Get to know her and find out about this organization that’s making a difference in the daily lives of so many seniors.

I’m a born-and-bred Rhode Island’er, where I have worked in nonprofit and government for 15 years, and am proud to be known as a recognized and trusted industry leader with a proven track record of leading a mission-driven organization. I’m definitely a people person and I love connecting to learn about innovative ways to make an impact. In June, I joined Meals on Wheels of RI as their fourth executive director. I have big plans for the organization and am so excited to lead it into the future.

When I’m not driving social change, I love travelling, following current events, exercising, skiing in the winter and boating in the summer.

What’s not to love about the Ocean State—especially the food? My parents often remind me that my first trip out of the house at just three weeks old was to Twin Oaks—what better place is there to start a love of food and family? Castle Hill will forever be a special place to me, since my husband proposed on the lawn. I feel like there is so much energy right now coming out of Warren between Hope & Main and all of the great places to grab food and drink. But nothing beats a good meal at home, which makes me feel a special connection to Meals on Wheels of RI, which helps seniors get to stay in their own homes by meeting their nutritional needs.

I’m really excited about our upcoming Festival of Meals gala that will celebrate our 50 years of incredible impact on Saturday, Nov. 2 at the Pawtucket Armory Arts Center. We’ll have an exclusive VIP cocktail reception, culinary competition, tastings from dozens of RI restaurants, celebrity judges, and silent and live auctions. We’re in the process of engaging sponsors and getting the word out, and we anticipate more than 400 attendees! For more information or to reserve a ticket, go to http://www.rimeals.org/festivalofmeals.

If you cannot attend the gala, but still want to support our mission, please visit www.rimeals.org.