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Our Clients

Who Do We Serve

Our clients are 90% working poor, mostly Hispanic families and 10% are homeless. They are almost all “in transition” in their lives. They are single mothers with preschoolers, unemployed day laborers, professionals who may have been apart of downsizing or persons simply experiencing extreme financial difficulties. Migrants are helped through our outreach program.

We are interested in “why” they have come to us – and we demonstrate a “caring, sharing, and serving” response to their needs. We serve from 80 to 120 clients each day. This varies depending on the weather, job availability, and when children are out of school. On Thanksgiving day, we have served over 500 meals. In 2022, we served over 25,000 meals.

Just Some Of Our Clients - How The Cafe' Works

Sharon’s life changed when she had a massive stroke at age 25. She had no financial help or a place to live and was living in the woods. She felt her life changed when she came to the Café as she received food, clothing, spiritual support and financial help. She remained homeless but she thanked God that the Café was there with help and support for her. She since has been in rehab and has been drug free for many years, has a job and a home.

Geraldo arrived with the clothes on his back and a small back pack. Besides a hot meal and a bag of groceries he was given a voucher to buy work shoes for a job.

Chris now has a job as a waiter at a Bonita Restaurant and is living independently. We helped purchase his uniform for work.

Ceci's Story

Ceci was in need of medical services for a hearing problem but the family was without insurance so they reached out to the Café of Life. Ceci was born hearing impaired in both ears and her hearing had worsened. Her doctor prescribed hearing aids but the expense was well beyond their means. The Café reached out to Lee Health Group and submitted an application for financial assistance which was approved. Ceci’s mother wrote “Thank God, they helped her. My family and I can’t thank you enough for the assistance the Café of Life and doctors at Lee Health provided to my daughter. She received her hearing aids. Her quality of life has changed for the better and forever. Thank you very much! May God bless you all at the Café of Life”.

Maria's Story

About five years ago, Maria began attending support groups at Café of Life—a decision that transformed her life and her family’s future. With Cafe’s help, she overcame the language barrier through English classes, received vital counseling during a time of crisis, and gained skills like sewing to earn extra income. She also learned to cook nutritious meals and care for her family’s health, breaking long-standing habits and creating a healthier home. Café of Life guided her every step of the way, even covering the costs and supporting her through the process of becoming a U.S. citizen. Beyond practical support, Maria found encouragement, dignity, and a sense of purpose. Today, she lives a healthier, more empowered life—and she credits Café of Life for helping her become a stronger mother, wife, and woman. Her story is a testament to the power of community and compassion.

Paola's Story

After the sudden loss of her husband to a heart attack while he was working in landscaping, a local mother was left devastated and overwhelmed with the responsibility of raising their three young children alone. As the family’s sole provider, his passing left a deep emotional and financial void. Unsure where to turn, she reached out to Café of Life, where she found compassionate support, guidance, and critical resources she didn’t know existed. The Café not only advocated on her behalf but also helped organize a GoFundMe through her late husband’s workplace, rallying the support of the Bonita community. Though her family continues to grieve an unimaginable loss, she is deeply grateful to Café of Life for being a beacon of hope during their darkest days—helping them move forward with strength, faith, and dignity.

Pablo's Story

Pablo is a recent immigrant who arrived in the US with serious dental problems and the significant cost for treatment was beyond his reach.

It was so serious “he felt like a complete failure”. With the emotional and economic support of the Cafe, he was able to acquire a full set of dentures. This greatly raised his self-esteem and “now I feel happy and again have enthusiasm for life, for working, for conversing with my family and friends, and for eating”. “Thank God I found the Café of Life for your generosity and kindness have left a profound mark on me. I will always carry in my heart the kindness that you have shown me”.

Sponsors

Our charity organization provides financial, technical and humanitarian assistance within various charitable programs.
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History

Our charity organization provides financial, technical and humanitarian assistance within various charitable programs.
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Leadership

Our charity organization provides financial, technical and humanitarian assistance within various charitable programs.
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Volunteering

Our charity organization provides financial, technical and humanitarian assistance within various charitable programs.
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Outreach Distribution

Music Student Field Trip

Enrichment Class

Birthday Party

Contact

Phone: (239) 495-9325


Fax: (239) 495-9326


info@cafeoflife.org

Our Location

Office

10540 Childers St.

Bonita Springs, FL 34135

 

Feeding Site

26724 Nomad Drive

Bonita Springs, FL 34135

 

Cafe of Life, Inc. — Mail Donations

PO Box 367794

Bonita Springs, FL 34136

© 2024 Cafe of Life. All Rights Reserved.

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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.