Tell us a little bit about yourself.

Sarasota has been my home for more than twenty years, but I originally hail from Norway – a background that has instilled in me a strong appreciation for nature and a lifelong passion for fishing, hunting, and boating. I often quip that my favorite pastimes involve looking down the tip of a fly rod or a rifle barrel, though I am also an avid reader of subjects from history and philosophy to mythology and religion. I am a licensed pilot and general aviation enthusiast, a pursuit that is a natural extension of my love for travel and adventure. My father’s personal philosophy, which still resonates with me years after his death, was to give people a hand up as opposed to a handout. He and my mother applied this theme in their philanthropy and it’s important for me to pass this ethos on to my seventeen-year-old son, Erik. He is a high school junior and varsity rower and has driven many routes with me for Meals on Wheels.

How did you first hear about Meals on Wheels?

I was looking for a local charity that not only made a real difference in our community, but also allowed me to do more than just write a check. I wanted something tangible that I could share with my son. I wanted him to be able to see the important work we are doing behind the scenes and the faces of the people we are helping when we personally deliver their freshly prepared, daily meal. For humans to function and thrive, they need shelter, clothing and food. I was stunned to learn that there was such an acute problem of hunger in our affluent town, especially for homebound seniors, veterans and the disabled – and that this need was being addressed by a small organization funded by the charitable support of our local community. I was also moved by its promise to provide “More Than a Meal.” I love this motto; it’s simple and powerful. For many people, the volunteer who delivers the daily meal is the only person the recipient will see or speak with all day. This personal interaction is another critical human need, and it allows us to check in on our most vulnerable neighbors and give peace of mind to family members that do not live locally. 

Can you tell us what inspired you most about Meals on Wheels?

Although I understood the importance of mission and the great need in our community, it was not until I knocked on a door for the first time that I truly appreciated the enormous impact we make. We deliver balanced, nutritious and seasonal meals for over 500 people every day in Sarasota County. Our clients are unable to shop for food or prepare meals for themselves, and many struggle financially to make ends meet. Most of our seniors, who comprise a fast-growing segment of our population, live alone but want to continue to live independently with our help. When I hand-delivered my first of many meals, I saw how something so simple – a warm greeting and a meal – could make a real difference in someone’s life.

How does Meals on Wheels stand apart from other organizations?

Meals on Wheels of Sarasota is a small community organization with a highly personalized approach to addressing the needs of our elderly and homebound clients. Our volunteers do more than deliver meals; they form meaningful connections with meal recipients who may feel socially isolated in their efforts to live independently in their own homes. This personal touch really sets us apart. Meals on Wheels is also unique in that we stay grounded to our core mission while also growing and adapting to meet new needs in the community. For example, we are working with registered dieticians and nutritionists to create medically tailored meals to accommodate the specific dietary needs of our clients (low-sodium, heart-healthy, texture-modified, etc.). This will ensure that our clients are not only receiving nutritious meals, but also meals that support their personal health and well-being. 

What has been the most rewarding part of being part of the Board of Directors?

The people! The members of our board are talented, dedicated and compassionate – and along with our dynamic executive director, devoted program and kitchen staff and incredible volunteers, we are an extraordinary team. Collaborating with individuals who bring both wisdom and heart to their work is incredibly meaningful, and I feel privileged to be part of an organization that is not only strategic and effective, but also deeply committed to making a difference in our community.    

What are you looking forward to the most this year as Board President?

I am looking forward to working with our board to craft a long-term strategic plan for the future of the organization, a plan that matches the growth pattern of Sarasota. As an organization, we want to ensure that we are primed to take on the social and economic challenges that the future will bring. For me, creating an endowment is another important next step for the organization, to provide continuing financial security and stability. As president, I also look forward to helping raise awareness of the work we do in the community and educating donors about giving opportunities, including legacy gifts. Looking toward the future, our board hopes to put the wheels in motion to locate a new facility in which we can expand our operations.