Languages: English English Spanish Español

Languages:

English English
Spanish Español

A Place of Hope and Comfort for Many in our Community

MEET OUR STAFF

Melissa Driver Beard

Executive Director

Melissa@corafoodpantry.org
919-545-4155

Melissa wears many hats, but her primary responsibly is to carry out the strategic plans and policies as established by the CORA’s Board of Directors.


“Working at CORA means so much to me because I know that CORA helps others when they need it most. I enjoy being part of an organization - the staff, board members, and volunteers - that prioritizes CORA's mission to create a community without hunger and does what it takes to make that a reality.”

Rebecca Hankins

Development & Communications Director

Rebecca@corafoodpantry.org
919-542-5020

Rebecca is responsible for increasing revenue so that CORA can fulfill its mission and shares our essential work with the community.


“Getting to work with, and interact with, so many amazing people is a blessing. CORA is a beacon of infinite compassion in our community and I am excited to see what is yet to come.”

Kristine Ashwood

Operations Director

Kristine@corafoodpantry.org
919-542-5020

Kristine manages our daily operations and oversees special projects and programming, helping to ensure that we fulfill our mission.


"Feeding people has been a passion of mine my entire life and I am so excited to be part of the extraordinary work that CORA is doing in the community."

Mackie Hunter

Program Manager

Mackie@corafoodpantry.org
919-542-5020

Mackie oversees CORA's various programs that provide nutritious and healthy food to individuals facing hunger in our community


“I love meeting all the amazing folks who come through CORA, and the excitement of something new every day!”

Peggy Overton

Data Manager


Peggy manages our donor database and ensures its quality, consistency, and accuracy.


“I love working at CORA because each and every person associated with CORA cares.”

Jessica Mashburn

Volunteer Coordinator

Jessica@corafoodpantry.org
919-542-5020

Jessica continuously searches for new ways for increasing volunteer engagement and raising awareness for CORA’s mission throughout Chatham County and beyond.


"My number one principle in life is to give more than I take. Working at CORA allows me to get to do my small part in making the world a better place. I am honored to build relationships with such an amazing group of caring, service minded people."

Travus Viera

Transportation & Warehouse Manager


Working in the field, Travus serves as a primary point of contact with grocery stores, PORCH neighborhoods, and other community partners.


“Working at CORA is great. Every week is different and the people I meet are nice. I started as a volunteer and I am now happy to be part of the staff.”

Reggie Blue

Inventory and Logistics Specialist


Reggie is responsible for providing logistics and inventory support for the Pantry and our various programs.


"CORA is a great place to work. I get to help those in need in the community and surround myself with people who care about each other. It's truly a family!"

Dottie Schmitt

Bookkeeper

Dottie@corafoodpantry.org
919-542-5020

Dottie is responsible for all accounting operations, benefits management, and financial reporting.


"Being part of CORA is an incredible opportunity to play a small role in CORA’s mission to eliminate hunger. Our dedicated volunteers and generous community make implementing CORA’s mission look effortless and creates a wonderful work atmosphere."

MEET OUR BOARD

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

Cindi Ebert

Position: President

Career: Retired, Owner, Ebert Consulting Group, LLC QuickBooks Advanced Certified ProAdvisor, Instructor and Trainer

Suzen Bria

Position: Vice President

Career: Human Resources and Business Professional

David Marty

Position: Treasurer

Career: Retired, CPA

Richard Helgans

Position: Secretary

Career: Retired, System Director of Workforce Development, UNC Health

AT LARGE MEMBERS

Pamela Barker

Career: Retired, Registered Dental Hygienist, Patient Care Coordinator and Educator

Bibi Fragozo

Career: Owner, Bibi's Produce

Dakota Philbrick

Career: Executive Director, Love Chatham

Bob Goetze

Career: Retired, IT

David Cook

Career: Retired, Executive Director, Human Resources – Ford Motor Company

Pam Somers

Career: Organizational Consultant, Mediator, and Psychotherapist

Phyllis Rankin

Career: Retired, Art and Creative Director