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Spring 2026 Update From Marietta Bala, Chairperson VALUE OF FAMILY

Dear Friends,

Family is one of life’s greatest blessings – a central unit for nurturing faith, providing strength, support and modeling God’s love. “Children are a heritage and reward from the Lord.” (Psalm 127:3) “Train a child in the way he should go and when he is old, he will not turn from it.” (Proverbs 22:6).

Children are loved and valued by their parents. One mother said, “Motherhood has shaped every part of my life. It has taught me strength, resilience, and the power of hope, even in the hardest moments. Watching my children grow and thrive brings me endless joy and purpose.”

Parents make many sacrifices, often working several jobs to make ends meet so that their children can have opportunities that they did not have. At the Café of Life, we empower mothers to build healthier more hopeful futures for their families. We provide classes in health and nutrition and teach nutritional cooking skills to prepare nourishing meals. With sewing class, they learn skills to make clothes for their children as well as a means to a livelihood. Children are enriched by music lessons that provides a new skill and self-esteem. Sponsorships of children’s camp experiences are provided throughout the year. Our soccer program, swim lessons, crafts, and tutoring add to their development. Scholarships are available to youth who want to advance their education. Parents encourage and support their children in these activities and are proud of their accomplishments. Likewise, children have expressed gratitude toward their parents for their support. They want to pay back and make their parents proud. When families are challenged by deportation of parent(s), older children take over family responsibilities and care for younger siblings with the help of supportive neighbors and relatives.

We are family at the Café of Life. Staff feel a special bond, and support each other as they work for a common cause of fulfilling our mission. This love and compassion transfers to our clients who in turn help and support each other. Volunteers say “the Café is my family.” Donors who visit feel this positive energy as well. The community is a family as we work together in partnership to help those in need. Mainly, we are family with God, expressing love, compassion and caring for each other.

“Let us love one another for love comes from God” (1 John 4:7)

Thanks for being a part of our family.

Kathy Croft has been volunteering with the Café of Life since 2017, first as a snowbird from North Carolina and as a permanent resident of Estero since 2020.  She has been a member of the Café’s Operations Committee since 2021 and coordinates the annual Christmas toy drive and distribution event. Kathy also enjoys tutoring clients of the Café who want to learn to speak, read and write English, or to prepare for the US citizenship exam. She and her husband Kelly are also regular volunteers at Leitner Park for the daily food service.

After retiring from a 42 year career as a Program Manager for both IBM and Cisco Systems, Kathy is excited to join the Café’s Board of Directors to continue serving the Bonita Springs community.

Kim Hagins joined the Board of Directors in November 2025, bringing with her over 25 years of experience as a senior executive in the financial service industry. Throughout her career, Kim managed large scale work groups across accounting, finance and operations.

Kim believes that a strong community is built through service. After retiring full time to Florida 20 years ago Kim transitioned her professional expertise into a life of dedicated service. For the past 16 years she has served as a Guardian ad Litem advocating for children within the dependency system.  She is actively involved in the children’s ministry in her church and in her community philanthropy club.

Her commitment to the Café of Life is deeply personal; she spent the last five years volunteering several days a week at the feeding site, witnessing the impact of the organization first hand. Kim is a firm believer in the power of giving back to the community where she raised her now grown son and lives with her husband of 46 years.

Maria brings 20 years of technical expertise and educational innovation. As co-founder of a real estate investment LLC, she has led the LLC’s technology operations while managing financial systems, software programs, and end of year tax reports. She balances operational efficiency with sustainable growth.

Previously, Maria served as Technology Coordinator and Computer Technology Educator at Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament School, where she transformed the school’s digital infrastructure by completing the integration of smartboards, computers, iPads and network systems schoolwide. She implemented and taught a K–8 technology curriculum, introduced HTML & CSS coding, and launched an after-school Tech Club. She also launched creative learning initiatives, most notably an interactive video book report project blending QR codes, media production, and literacy. Maria also managed the technology department’s annual budget in collaboration with the principal and school board, ensuring strategic investments in innovation and learning for the school.

Currently, Maria serves as Technology Coordinator at Café of Life, where she strategically built and implemented a Salesforce CRM system to streamline client services, optimize volunteer information, and enhance donor relations, empowering the organization with real-time data insights. She also built and launched a custom volunteer portal, accessible via iPad, allowing volunteer real-time logging of service hours and improving data accuracy for impact reporting. Maria has also taken the lead in designing and managing Google Ad Grant campaigns, to increase the organization’s visibility and reach online. In addition to her CRM and marketing work, she now serves as the nonprofit’s webmaster, strengthening Café of Life’s digital presence and community engagement across web platforms. These digital solutions are transforming how Café of Life operates, enabling the nonprofit to serve with greater efficiency, ultimately expanding its reach and deepening its impact in the lives of those in need.

Maria holds a Bachelor of Science degree in legal studies and a Master of Science degree in library science and information technology from the University at Buffalo, is certified in JavaScript Algorithms and Responsive Web Design. Maria is married and the proud mother of two daughters, now pursuing careers in marketing and finance. Both volunteered at Café of Life during high school, reflecting the family’s shared heart for service. Maria’s work continues to be driven by a lifelong commitment to innovation, service, and meaningful impact.

Pastor Riley is an ordained minister whose life journey bridges decades of success in both business and ministry. Alongside his wife Ann, he built thriving careers in real estate, aerospace parts, and entertainment media before answering a full-time call to ministry. While advancing professionally, he also worked behind the scenes on strategic projects for large international ministries based in Texas and Southeast Florida. Pastor Riley has shared the truth of God’s Word and a message of servant leadership in churches across the United States. He is the creator of the daily inspirational radio program Just a Thought, and he holds a Doctor of Divinity Degree from Faith Theological Seminary in Tampa, Florida. He is also the author of When Believing in God is Not Enough, a compelling book of miracle testimonies available on Amazon.

Since October of 2015, Pastor Riley has served as a dedicated board member for Café of Life. His deep well of experience in leadership, ministry, and business has significantly impacted the organization’s strategic direction and community outreach. He brings both vision and practicality, offering wisdom rooted in servant leadership and a strong commitment to faith-based service. His contributions have strengthened the organization and its ability to serve others with excellence.

Pastor Riley’s wife and ministry partner, Ann, has mentored women in spiritual growth and personal development for over 25 years. As the former Executive Director of Love INC Southwest Florida, she helped unite more than 20 churches and service agencies to serve local families in need. Her compassionate leadership and knowledge of Scripture continue to inspire those around her.

Together, Pastor Riley and Ann are passionate about fostering unity in the body of Christ and helping others discover and develop their God-given gifts. Through simple, unwavering faith in God’s Word, they have witnessed countless miracles and give all the glory to God.

Theresa Moore is a dynamic influence behind Café of Life, having supported the organization since 2012 when the feeding site operated humbly under the banyan trees in Bonita Springs’ city park. Drawn to its grassroots mission and by the resilience of Yadi’s then one-woman operation, she began by delivering groceries each week. Theresa’s passion for service quickly deepened, first as a member of the Operations Committee and, since 2015, as a proud member of the Board of Directors, where she serves alongside some of the most compassionate and driven changemakers in the community.

A native of small-town Northwest Florida, she earned a B.S. in Marine Biology from the University of West Florida and a Master’s in Biology from Florida State University, later going on to earn her Juris Doctor from Florida State University College of Law. Her legal career spans federal service and private practice. She served as an attorney for the U.S. Department of Commerce’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and later for the U.S. Department of the Interior in Washington, D.C. She also practiced corporate and energy law in California with Exxon and in private practice. She is a member in good standing of The Florida Bar.

Outside of her professional and volunteer commitments, Theresa has been married for 35 years to her husband Shelby, a fellow attorney.  She finds joy in life’s quieter moments, jogging, gardening, and keeping up with Lil Man, her spirited 7-pound chihuahua.

Marietta Bala has spent her life answering a single, powerful call: to bring hope where it’s needed most. A seasoned mental health professional with over forty years of experience, Marietta’s work has touched the lives across classrooms, clinics, and communities, from the heart of Chicago to villages across the world. Her journey began with a passion for understanding and uplifting people.

With a BA in Social Science/Community Dynamics from Earlham College and Master’s degree in Social Work, Public Health, Health Education, Gerontology, and Family Therapy, Marietta built a career rooted in compassion and action. She initiated a groundbreaking social work program for a large high school district, directed social services for a major outpatient clinic, and educated communities nationwide on mental health and chronic disease. Yet her vision was never limited by borders.

Driven by a deep belief that every life matters, Marietta has traveled to 141 countries, working alongside CARE International to evaluate humanitarian programs and standing before Congress to advocate for food security, maternal health, and an end to child trafficking. Whether conducting needs studies in Jakarta or singing in cathedrals in Florence and London with her church choir, Marietta’s life has been an anthem of service.

Outside of her service, Marietta’s passions are as vibrant as her spirit. She is a leader in mission trips, a teacher of caregiving and grief support, and a spiritual director with the Great Banquet Community. She believes that healing isn’t just a goal; it’s a way of living, one relationship, one conversation, one act of love at a time.

Her story with Cafe of Life, began in 2000. Looking for a way to put her lifetime of experience to work, she was introduced to Cafe of Life through her church’s mission team. What she found was a cause that spoke directly to her heart: a determined organization dedicated to feeding the hungry, clothing the poor, and restoring dignity to the forgotten families of Bonita Springs.

Since 2003, Marietta has led as Chairperson of the Board, guiding Cafe of Life from its humble beginnings to a vital lifeline for thousands. Every meal served, every family clothed, every child given hope, each one is a testament to the belief that no one should be left behind, no one should be invisible because hunger doesn’t wait and poverty doesn’t pause.

Every life touched carries her fingerprint and fingerprints of those who have joined her along the way. Marietta has seen firsthand that when a caring hand reaches out, it can lift a soul from despair to hope and ignite change that echoes far beyond a single life.

Marietta invites you to become part of this living story. Join her. Stand with Cafe of Life. Help change a life and in doing so, transform your own.

Anthony Muñoz is a Logistics Assistant at Café of Life, where he has been serving since 2024. In his position, Anthony shares the responsibility of managing food donations and  other items contributed to the organization. He coordinates pick-ups from community  partners and assists with daily operations—always ready to step in wherever needed. His dedication and reliability make him a key part of the behind-the-scenes work for the logistics team. 

Born and raised in Naples, Florida, Anthony is a graduate of Estero High School. Prior to joining Café of Life, he worked as a server at several country clubs. His role at the nonprofit  has been a turning point, sparking a deep passion for helping others. Being part of the Café of Life community has inspired him to pursue a college education and build a long-term future rooted in service.

Magdaleno (Mag) Velasquez has been volunteering at the Cafe of Life for over 15 years and has been a Board member since 2017. He has volunteered in many outreach activities at the Park and other locations. He was one of the initial drivers who transported clients to the park, school activities, doctor visits, immigration appointments, and other trips. He is a member of the Vision Committee searching for more ways to help clients. Being bilingual as well as a former migrant worker when he was young, he can relate to the client’s needs. 

As the oldest of 13 kids and harvesting produce on farms around the country he understands the plight of immigrants. His parents emphasized to their children the importance of education for a better life. He graduated from high school in Wisconsin and completed his Bachelor of Arts in Business Administration from the University of Wisconsin at La Crosse in 1975. During that time he was a collegiate college wrestler and in his senior year was a financial analysis intern with the Federal Government in Chicago. He also received his Masters of Business Administration from Roosevelt University. 

He worked for 30 years in various Federal Offices of Inspector General in Chicago and Washington DC. He acquired his Certifications for Internal Auditor and Fraud Examiner to better perform his job. After a successful career as an auditor and investigator with the FDIC, he retired and moved to Florida permanently in 2006. He and his wife have three children and 11 grandchildren. 

In retirement, he has been actively serving in several ministries in his church such as small group leader, prayer partner, community outreach and mission activities. He also volunteered several years as a tutor for the after school program at New Horizons. In addition, he continues to serve at the Salvation Army of Bonita Springs in outreach and transportation of clients for various needs.

Mag’s passion for service stems from his faith in Jesus Christ who came, not to be served but to serve. He is proud to be involved with the Cafe of Life which is a faith based non-profit organization helping those who just need a helping hand.

Lety was born and raised in Antigua, Guatemala, and moved to Bonita Springs, Florida in 1991. She holds a degree in Spanish as a Second Language from Maya Linguistic School (1986) and studied Accounting at the University of San Carlos in 1984.

Her professional journey reflects a deep commitment to advocacy, education, and community empowerment. She has served in a wide range of leadership and service roles, including as Founder and Executive Director of the Senior Community Resource, Inc.—now known as the Bonita Springs Senior Center—Programs Director and Case Manager at the Bonita Springs Assistance Office, and Immigration Paralegal and Legal Office Manager at the Law Offices of David J. Mourick. In addition, she contributed as a literary translator for Thomas Nelson Publishers.

Since joining the Café of Life in 2017, she has served as Outreach Coordinator and Case Manager. In her outreach role, she coordinates weekly food and resource distributions across migrant camps and underserved neighborhoods and manages the outreach volunteer teams. She coordinates with donors for essential items needed for distribution. As Case Manager, she has been instrumental implementing several of the organization’s programs, including services for seniors and individuals with special needs, an Education and Empowerment program, an Immigration assistance program, and a dental care initiative for uninsured children. She also helps identify scholarship candidates, camp participants, and facilitates referrals to partner agencies, healthcare providers, and legal support. Additionally, she serves as a liaison between the School District Migrant Program and Café of Life.

Lety helps bridge families to vital resources internally and externally. Her unwavering dedication and tireless service are a cornerstone of Café’s mission to uplift and empower.

Yadi, Café of Life’s Site Manager and Volunteer Coordinator, celebrated an inspiring 20-year milestone with the organization in 2024. Born in Mexico, she immigrated to the United States with her family at the age of five. Her father worked at the local Gargiulo Packing House, while her mother provided childcare to neighborhood children. As a young girl learning English in a new country, Yadi quickly took on the responsibility of translating for her parents, a role that shaped her resilience, empathy, and strong work ethic from an early age. After graduating high school, Yadi and her husband began their journey together, working in local restaurants, purchasing their first home by the age of 20.

Since joining Café of Life in 2004 as its only employee, Yadi has been the heart of the daily operations at the feeding site. Her warm, uplifting presence, coupled with her bilingual skills and lived experience, has made her a trusted and beloved figure among clients. Many see themselves in her journey, drawing strength from her compassion and guidance. Yadi’s ability to connect, comfort, and inspire has made her a true “Beacon of Light” to individuals facing crisis.

Reflecting on her journey, Yadi shares, “I am so grateful to have started my work at the Café of Life. It has been both my inspiration and my school. Throughout the years I have learned so much from the Café, volunteers, and clients. I am the person I am today because of them. I am truly blessed.” Her impact on the Café and the community is immeasurable, and her dedication continues to be a cornerstone of the organization’s mission.

She is the proud mother of four children, including a daughter who graduated with a B.A. in Film from a university in Nashville and beginning her own career.

Lucy is originally from Lima, Peru, and a proud U.S. citizen fluent in both English and Spanish. She brings over 20 years of administrative expertise to her current role as Transportation & Logistics Coordinator at Café of Life, where she has served for the past five years.

In her role, Lucy is responsible for managing inventory and coordinating timely and accurate deliveries of essential items for clients participating in outreach and senior programs. Working closely with the Executive Director, Outreach Coordinator, and Site Manager, she oversees food and supply donations, organizes procurement from multiple agencies and retail partners, and ensures the seamless operation of critical programs. Lucy also coordinates pantry, and outreach volunteers and supervises the maintenance and scheduling of the organization’s five vehicles and volunteer drivers.

Her professional history includes extensive experience in retail operations, credit services, real estate management, and bookkeeping—having held administrative and managerial roles with companies such as SteinMart, Ford Motor Credit, McNeil Real Estate Management, H&R Block, and Sereauto S.A. in Lima.

Prior to being employed at Café of Life, Lucy also contributed her time as a dedicated volunteer with Café of Life and the Church of the Resurrection, supporting food distribution, outreach, and youth programs. She is a team player who embodies the mission of Café of Life through her compassion, reliability, and unwavering work ethic.

Lucy holds a degree in Business Administration from the University of San Martín de Porras, Lima, Peru. She completed additional studies at IPAE (Instituto Peruano de Administración de Empresas) in Lima, Peru. She also studied English for Foreign Students and Business Computer Software Training from Edison Community College in Fort Myers, FL. In addition, she studied a foreign language, English, at Florida Southwestern State College.

Lucy brings precision, results and purpose to her work—driving forward the vision and values of Café of Life every single day.

David is a committed community leader with a Baccalaureate of Arts in Criminal Justice from Indiana University of Pennsylvania. In 1994, he co-founded a property investments LLC, a thriving real estate investment company that he continues to operate today, focused on sustainable growth and long-term impact.

In addition to his real estate ventures, David co-founded and helped build The Bookworm Café, a beloved bookstore and coffee shop that quickly became a vibrant community gathering place. Under his co-leadership, the Bookworm hosted poetry readings, open mic nights, story time, children’s events, and book signings with many visiting authors, creating an inclusive space where creativity, expression, and conversation flourished. Though the business eventually closed due to relocation, its impact as a space for connection and creativity remains a proud chapter in David’s story.

David’s heart for service was shaped early in life by the example of his mother, who volunteered with Meals on Wheels in Buffalo, NY for 25 years. Her tireless commitment to delivering food and hope to homebound seniors left a lasting impression on David. Her compassion and quiet dedication taught him that even small acts of kindness can change lives. Today, he honors her legacy by carrying that same spirit of service into every corner of his own life.

In 2015, David began volunteering at Café of Life, drawn by that same deep desire to serve his community. His dedication and leadership earned him a seat on the Board of Directors in late 2020, where he continues to help guide the organization’s vision and growth with humility, insight, and hands-on action.

David’s entrepreneurial spirit, combined with extensive experience in business development and community engagement, has been an invaluable asset to Café of Life. Beyond offering his time and expertise, David brings a deep sense of purpose, carrying forward a proud family legacy rooted in compassion, service, and a lifelong commitment to provide a hand-up to those who are struggling and less fortunate.

David is a devoted husband and father, married with two accomplished daughters pursuing careers in Marketing and Finance, both of whom also volunteered at Café of Life during their high school years, continuing the family’s hands-on dedication to service and further exemplifying the values of dedication and impact that define his life and work.

Rae Ann was a proud Michigander for 60 years and attended Michigan State University for her Bachelor’s and the University of Michigan for her Master’s degree.  She taught for ten years and served as a secondary principal for twenty-six years.  During her tenure as principal, she stressed the importance of service to the community and involved students in charitable projects.  Rae Ann moved to Florida in 2002 where she has served on boards of other charitable foundations.  She has been secretary of Café of Life for fourteen years.

Steve Anderson is originally from Detroit Lakes, MN and lived in the Twin Cities area of Minnesota for most of his working career. Steve is a retired CPA and held various executive and managerial Finance and Accounting positions with Carlson Companies, Gage Marketing, and Thrivent Financial during his career. Steve and his wife Karen began coming to Southwest Florida part-time in 2012 and becoming full time residents in 2020.

In retirement, Steve enjoys traveling, volunteering, running, hiking, walking, and playing trombone in two community bands. Steve is currently serving on the board of directors for Café of Life, Bonita Springs Concert Band, and Lamb of God Church. Steve served as Treasurer of Community Emergency Services. a food shelf in Minnesota for nine years in addition to serving on several other boards in leadership positions.  

Steve and Karen have two children who live in the rocky mountain states and have a 3-year-old grandson with another grandson on the way. They travel to visit them as often as they can.

Dave has worked for the Café of Life since December of 2017.  Dave’s primary focus is maintaining the building and grounds at the Café of Life.  Dave has always helped with other roles as well.  He assists with technology, runs the bike program, helps with outreach and helps to solve other office problems.   Dave has given away roughly 300 bicycles with safety equipment since taking over the role in 2024.  He also works with outreach to prepare for “Senior Produce” every other Tuesday and “Community Outreach” every Wednesday.

Dave’s first job was with the YMCA of Oakland County, in Michigan.  He says there are a lot of parallels with the sports related non for profit and the Café of Life.  He has always liked helping others and that is why he is perfect fit here!

Dave is from Rochester Hills, Michigan where he graduated from Oakland University with a Bachelor of Science in Business Marketing.  Dave draws from his experience with business to help around the office.

Michael is a proud graduate of Bethune-Cookman University in Daytona Beach, where he earned his degree in Biology and Nursing Science. After an impactful 27-year career in nursing, he retired in 2014 and began a new chapter of service, first joining the Café of Life as a volunteer and later becoming a member of the staff.

As Facility Manager at Café of Life’s Bonita Springs Park location, Michael has played an instrumental role in the organization’s transformation over the past 11 years.

His background in nursing continues to shape his leadership. He is proud to be part of the Café’s team. His journey, from bedside care to community care, has come full circle.

Alex came to the United States from Guatemala thirteen years ago, speaking only Kitche, a Mayan dialect. When he first arrived in Bonita Springs, he didn’t know how to read or write in English and felt isolated—his cousin was the only person nearby who spoke his language. Determined to build a better future, Alex enrolled in the Literacy Council, where he studied for over six years and successfully completed English levels one through four. He then earned his GED with the support of dedicated English teachers at Bonita Springs High School. Driven by a long-standing goal to pursue higher education, Alex went on to graduate from Lorenzo Walker Technical College, where he earned a certification in accounting operations. His journey reflects his dedication, and commitment.

Dolores relocated to Bonita Springs with her husband, Tom, in October 2015 after his retirement from a 50-year career with State Farm Insurance. Having worked as a licensed producer in his office for 20 years, Dolores brought her professional experience and strong organizational skills to her new community. She began volunteering at Café of Life in March 2016, initially assisting at the park. Within a few months, she was invited to help in the office, where her responsibilities steadily grew. Today, she serves as a dedicated staff volunteer and has been a member of the Board of Directors since December 15, 2020.

As the Volunteer Onboarding Coordinator, Dolores personally meets with every new volunteer to introduce them to Café of Life’s mission and services. She records volunteer registration in the organization’s Salesforce database, and documents donations, prepares thank-you letters, and ensures annual tax letters are sent to monthly donors. Dolores plays an active role in representing Café of Life at presentations to local organizations, clubs, churches, and community events. In addition, she coordinates volunteer fairs, oversees the front desk receptionist volunteer team schedule, assists the Executive Director with various tasks, and serves as the purchasing manager for all organizational needs. Additionally, she manages data coordination for MealConnect, ensuring food donations and distributions are accurately tracked.

Dolores is a vital part of the Café of Life team and deeply values the relationships she has built through her work. Her passion, reliability, and heart for service continue to make a meaningful impact on the community.

Hugh Nevin is a seasoned international business and tax attorney with a distinguished career advising foreign enterprises and individuals investing and operating in the United States. Fluent in German and globally respected, Hugh served as President of Cohen & Grigsby and brings decades of legal expertise and leadership to every client engagement.

With a strong focus on international tax law, corporate structuring, and cross-border compliance, Hugh has guided clients through complex matters involving mergers, acquisitions, joint ventures, and U.S. market entry strategies. His practice includes advising on employment law, distributorship and licensing agreements, regulatory compliance, and tax planning — including income, estate, and gift tax strategies for foreign investors.

Hugh has also assisted numerous clients in navigating the IRS Offshore Voluntary Disclosure Program (OVDP) and is a trusted advisor to Canadian individuals and companies investing in the U.S.

Hugh has been recognized by Best Lawyers in America© in Corporate Law, Tax Law, and Tax Litigation, and was named “Lawyer of the Year” in Fort Myers for both Tax and Corporate Law. He has also served on corporate boards in the U.S., Canada, and Germany, helping guide business strategy and international growth for multiple enterprises.

A veteran of the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne Division, Hugh brings a sense of discipline, service, and global perspective to every endeavor. He has authored legal insights on financial and estate planning for international clients, and he frequently advises Canadian investors on U.S. tax and legal issues.

Beyond his legal career, Hugh is deeply committed to community service. He has served on the boards of The Conservancy of Southwest Florida, WQED (PBS), Sewickley Academy, and the German American Business Chamber. He has served as a board member of Café of Life since 2020, where he helps advance the organization’s mission.

Jeff’s patriotism led him to a career in the U.S. Army which consisted of twenty-eight years primarily in the logistics field. He served a combat tour in Iraq, is a Bronze Star recipient, and culminated his career as a Battalion Commander. Jeff retired at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and returned to his hometown of Bethany, Missouri to help with aging parents.

His desire to serve continued while in Bethany as he was very involved in the community, having been on the city council, Commander of the American Legion Post, President of the Chamber of Commerce, community blood drive Captain, and board member of the Harrison County Community Hospital Foundation and the Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri.

When Jeff and his wife arrived in Florida in 2014, he was looking for volunteer opportunities, and to his good fortune, his new neighbor was a board member of the Café of Life. He was quickly introduced to the Café where he became a regular volunteer. A year later, he was offered the Executive Director’s position.

Since taking on that role, Jeff has helped guide Café of Life’s transformation into one of the leading nonprofit organizations in the Bonita Springs area. Under his leadership, the Café has expanded significantly. Vital programs have been launched and grown during his tenure, broadening the organization’s impact and deepening its connection to the community.

Jeff has also overseen a major modernization of Café of Life’s operations, leading efforts to digitize and centralize data systems to increase efficiency. By bringing Café of Life to the next level of computerized digital operations, the organization has improved its ability to track impact, and manage services efficiently, ensuring long-term sustainability and professionalism in a fast-paced, digital-first world. Additionally, Jeff has worked in collaboration with partner agencies to position Café of Life as a local hub for hurricane preparedness, providing resources and coordination to support the community during times of crisis.

Jeff possesses a B.S. in Business Management, an MBA with a concentration in Personal Finance, held the Certified Financial Planner CFP™ credential for 20 years, and is a graduate of the Army’s Command and General Staff College.

Jeff’s patriotism led him to a career in the U.S. Army which consisted of twenty-eight years primarily in the logistics field. He served a combat tour in Iraq, is a Bronze Star recipient, and culminated his career as a Battalion Commander. Jeff retired at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel and returned to his hometown of Bethany, Missouri to help with aging parents.

His desire to serve continued while in Bethany as he was very involved in the community, having been on the city council, Commander of the American Legion Post, President of the Chamber of Commerce, community blood drive Captain, and board member of the Harrison County Community Hospital Foundation and the Community Foundation of Northwest Missouri.

When Jeff and his wife arrived in Florida in 2014, he was looking for volunteer opportunities, and to his good fortune, his new neighbor was a board member of the Café of Life. He was quickly introduced to the Café where he became a regular volunteer. A year later, he was offered the Executive Director’s position.

Since taking on that role, Jeff has helped guide Café of Life’s transformation into one of the leading nonprofit organizations in the Bonita Springs area. Under his leadership, the Café has expanded significantly. Vital programs have been launched and grown during his tenure, broadening the organization’s impact and deepening its connection to the community.

Jeff has also overseen a major modernization of Café of Life’s operations, leading efforts to digitize and centralize data systems to increase efficiency. By bringing Café of Life to the next level of computerized digital operations, the organization has improved its ability to track impact, and manage services efficiently, ensuring long-term sustainability and professionalism in a fast-paced, digital-first world. Additionally, Jeff has worked in collaboration with partner agencies to position Café of Life as a local hub for hurricane preparedness, providing resources and coordination to support the community during times of crisis.

Jeff possesses a B.S. in Business Management, an MBA with a concentration in Personal Finance, held the Certified Financial Planner CFP™ credential for 20 years, and is a graduate of the Army’s Command and General Staff College.