Our Pantry Staff is amazing. We’re 100% volunteer run, with no paid staff. Some of our volunteers contribute up to 30 hours a week. Meet some key members of our pantry team below, and consider joining us as a volunteer!
Our Leadership Team
Nikki Kuhlman
Interim Executive director
“I’m currently the President of the Board of Directors, and am filling in, along with Chuck Bumbales, as interim executive director, as we work to fill the position. I’ve been enjoying working with a more diverse group of people, as well as learning more of the inner workings of how our pantry runs. It’s amazing what a small, committed group of people can do when they are determined to help others. And we always have room for more volunteers!”
If you are interested in the Executive Director position, or know someone who might be, please email me at nkuhlman@d300foodpantry.org.
Chuck Bumbales
Facilities Manager
“I started serving in this role after I helped to actually construct the food pantry area at CMS. I forged a relationship with our founder, Craig Raddatz, and was just starting my retirement. I liked the idea of continuing to serve our community and needed a new way to do that.
My best advice for new volunteers is to come in with an open mind and don’t be afraid to try something new or different in life. The feeling of reward from helping others makes me keep coming back; hopeful new volunteers will feel the same thing.”
Jeff Davis
eagles nest Pantry MGR.
“In my role at the D300 Food Pantry, I get to interact with so many people especially at Jacobs High School. I love seeing how a food pantry can impact an entire community. I love when there are different departments, different clubs and sports helping out for a common purpose. It is so fun when it all comes together and seeing the love spread throughout makes me feel like lives are being changed not only those in need but the ones that are helping.”
Carmen Colon
Volunteer Coordinator
Carmen is volunteer co-coordinator with Mike Sun and also is one of our registration team.
“Volunteering at the food pantry has made me more aware of the importance of community support. I’ve gained a deeper understanding of the value of empathy and kindness in everyday interactions. My favorite part of volunteering is interacting with the families and it is a great feeling to see the way they appreciate what we all do for the families in the community.”
Mike Sun
social media manager
Besides managing our social media presence, Mike is also a team leader and assists Carmen Colon as volunteer coordinator.
“I got involved with the Pantry, when my kids started to attend D300 Schools. I wanted to set an example for my kids, when it came to giving back to the community, thus found myself with a school based food pantry. The incredible volunteers within this organization and the neighbors that we serve, keep me coming back each and every week.”
Terri Naaf
outreach coordinator
Besides being our Outreach Coordinator, Terri also creates our amazing birthday bags.
“What I love most about volunteering is interacting with the people. I get to know the clients and what their needs are. I enjoy helping others. One of my goals is to make the pantry a fun place for kids.
If you are thinking of volunteering, come visit – smile, talk to people, and become part of our wonderful volunteer family.”
Marc Wolf
Food Rescue coordinator
Pam Atilano
ordering co-coordinator
Besides working with Sue to order from Northern Illinois Food Bank (NIFB), Pam does the diaper ordering from our partner Keeping Families Covered.
Sue Lucas
ordering co-coordinator
Petra Bayer
Registration coordinator
“I love being part of the food pantry. When I started volunteering I never imagined how meaningful and rewarding the experience would be. I have met so many amazing people and really enjoy helping out!”
Pantry Team Leaders
team leader
Michele Johnston
“I initially started volunteering six years ago during lent as I wanted to give back to the community. Six months later I was asked to be a Team Lead, and I continue to serve that role on our Tuesday stocking nights. I became the Treasurer ~f our years ago and stepped into a board position two years ago.”
team leader
Laura Odahowski
“I love being able to have a positive impact on others. I work registration which involves greeting and assisting our neighbors as they arrive at the pantry. I love the interactions I have with them and value the connection to the community. I also feel privileged to work with the other volunteers. It is wonderful to work alongside such talented and dedicated people.”
team leader
Becky Welter
“I saw a Facebook post that the Pantry needed food. I met Leslie the night I dropped off food. She showed me around and I asked about volunteering opportunities. I signed up for a few stocking and shopping nights and fell in love with the mission. I became a Leader and have been here for five years.”