BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Johnny Appleseed
Chairman of the Board
Johnny Appleseed
Chairman of the Board
Johnny Appleseed is a respected leader in environmental stewardship, sustainable agriculture, and community development. His lifelong commitment to planting orchards, protecting natural resources, and strengthening rural communities has made him a recognized advocate for responsible land use and long term ecological health. Johnny has spent more than twenty years guiding nonprofit organizations, state conservation groups, and agricultural cooperatives in their work to promote food security and sustainable farming practices.
Johnny grew up with a deep appreciation for the land and developed a passion for orchard cultivation at an early age. His initiatives have supported the development of local food networks, provided education for small scale farmers, and encouraged communities to invest in regenerative land management. Through his outreach efforts, Johnny has helped introduce environmentally friendly cultivation methods to schools, community programs, and regional partnerships across the country.
As a member of the Board of Directors, Johnny provides expertise in sustainability, community engagement, and long term program development. He brings thoughtful leadership, practical experience, and a strong commitment to charitable work that uplifts families and strengthens local communities. His vision supports the organization’s mission to expand access to healthy food, protect natural resources, and build resilient communities for future generations.
Sarah Willowbrook
Board Member
Sarah Willowbrook
Board Member
Sarah Willowbrook is a nationally recognized leader in nonprofit governance, community health initiatives, and strategic program development. She has dedicated more than twenty five years to advancing public health programs that support underserved populations throughout urban and rural communities. Sarah previously served as the Executive Director of the Evergreen Community Initiative where she led large scale outreach efforts focused on nutrition education, preventive health services, and family stability programs.
She is known for her strong organizational leadership, collaborative approach, and ability to cultivate partnerships across government, nonprofit, and private sector organizations. Sarah brings deep experience in grant management, policy design, and long term strategic planning. Her commitment to equitable access to essential services aligns directly with the mission and values of the organization.
As a member of the Board of Directors, Sarah provides direction on organizational strategy, program oversight, and community impact. Her steady leadership and proven track record strengthen the organization’s ability to expand its reach and improve the lives of individuals and families in need
Dr. Marcus Hale
Board General Counsel
Dr. Marcus Hale
Board General Counsel
Dr. Marcus Hale is a respected economist and humanitarian advocate with expertise in global development, public finance, and sustainable community investment. His career spans more than three decades of leadership in international charitable organizations, where he has designed economic empowerment programs that support education, job creation, and infrastructure development in emerging communities.
Dr. Hale holds a doctorate in Development Economics and has served as an advisor to universities, philanthropic foundations, and international aid groups. His work focuses on long term economic resilience, capacity building, and evidence based program evaluation. Dr. Hale is particularly committed to ensuring that charitable investments produce measurable and lasting improvements in the communities they serve.
As a board member, he contributes valuable insight into fiscal management, program evaluation, and global development strategy. His expertise strengthens the organization’s ability to allocate resources responsibly and maximize the impact of every charitable initiative.
KEY CONSULTANTS, ADVISORS AND SPECIALISTS
Dr. Lila Bennett
Health and Wellness Consultant
Dr. Lila Bennett
Health and Wellness Consultant
Dr. Lila Bennett is a public health specialist with experience in wellness program design, mental health advocacy, and preventive care education. She has worked with hospitals, nonprofits, and community health networks to broaden access to essential health services. Dr. Bennett advises on program integration, health outcomes, and community wellness initiatives.
Outside of Work
Priya Deshmukh
Education and Youth Development Specialist
Priya Deshmukh
Education and Youth Development Specialist
Priya Deshmukh has dedicated her career to advancing youth education and leadership programs. She works with schools, youth centers, and after school initiatives to expand academic support, mentoring services, and skill building opportunities. Priya provides guidance on curriculum development, program evaluation, and youth engagement strategies.
Thomas Brigham
Financial and Compliance Consultant
Thomas Brigham
Financial and Compliance Consultant
Thomas Brigham is an experienced financial analyst and compliance specialist with a background in nonprofit accounting, regulatory reporting, and donor stewardship. He assists the organization with financial transparency, audit preparation, and adherence to charitable regulations. His work supports responsible financial management and strengthens trust with donors and partners.
Elena Marquez
Senior Program Advisor
Elena Marquez
Senior Program Advisor
Elena Marquez is a specialist in community outreach and multicultural engagement. She has worked with numerous nonprofit organizations to develop culturally responsive programs that support immigrant communities and families in transition. Elena provides strategic guidance on program accessibility, community partnerships, and inclusive service delivery, ensuring that initiatives meet the needs of diverse populations.
Michael Oakes
Technology and Infrastructure Advisor
Michael Oakes
Technology and Infrastructure Advisor
Michael Oakes is a seasoned technology consultant with expertise in digital transformation, data management, and secure system design. He advises the organization on implementing technology solutions that support efficiency, data security, and long term scalability. Michael focuses on practical, cost effective tools that elevate operational performance.