Who We Are

Kelsey began as Executive Director in January 2022 and works hard at keeping the organization moving forward.  Kelsey reports to the Board of Directors who make policy on behalf of the best interest of the Lake Cares.

Ruthie works directly with donors with designated and legacy giving and builds engagement and awareness through community outreach. Ruthie works with the Executive Director in securing important funding through writing grants and seeking opportunities for support.

Coming soon!

Office managers handle all emergency food requests, data entry, and phone inquiries. 

Tim is in charge of co-coordinating the pick-up of product from retail stores and food drives.

Kevin maintains the facilities, keeping everything in working order for the organization.

John Pease IV – Born and raised in Lake County, John heads up the Trust Department at The First National Bank of Mount Dora.  He is also the current Chair of the Mount Dora Chamber of Commerce and Trustee of a number of local foundations and charities like the Mount Dora Community Trust and the W.T. Bland Jr. Charitable Trust.  Lake Cares has such a huge impact in our community, John was thrilled when asked to be a part of the team.

Heather McPherson is a former food editor, restaurant reviewer and multimedia journalist for the Orlando Sentinel. She handles press and media for the Millennium Management Group. Millennium owns and operates restaurants and entertainment complexes across the United States. The author of three cookbooks, she has co-written five others and edited three cookbooks.

Michelle Villani is Executive Assistant for G3 Development. “I am a Lake Cares Board Member because I want to use my time and skills to support the cause I care about.”

Chuck Babbino is the Campus Pastor at Real Life Christian Church in Mount Dora. Chuck is involved with Lake Cares because meeting physical needs and combatting hunger is part of what living out the ways of Jesus looks like.  

Cathy Hoechst has lived, worked and volunteered in Mount Dora for 35 years. Previously she was an executive for Orlando Health and then President of the Mount Dora Chamber of Commerce. She has served on Mount Dora city council as council woman, vice mayor and mayor.

Bobby Rowe pastors the Saving Faith Baptist Church in Mount Dora and the Executive Director of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes