We’re celebrating the incredible service of Charles Kelsey on the Kearsarge Food Hub Board of Directors, as he steps down from his position as Board Chair.
Charlie did more than serve as Board Chair, he helped out on Sweet Beet Farm, in Sweet Beet Café, and anywhere where he could lend a hand!
Charlie served a total of three years on KFH’s board of directors, from day one bringing an incredible amount of care and thoughtfulness to his service. He chaired the board for the last two years, and under his leadership KFH matured significantly.
We are so grateful for Charlie’s practical and heart-centered approach to all that he did. During his tenure, KFH stabilized financially, both by rigorous financial analysis of our income generating programs and the establishment of an operating reserve. At the same time, we were able to increase compensation and benefits significantly across the board for all employees. Charlie supported the leadership team through many challenges, and imparted a thoughtful and compassionate people-first approach.
Above and beyond what would be considered normal board duties, Charlie spent a lot of time supporting both Sweet Beet Farm and Cafe operations. His willingness to do the work and to get his hands dirty provided him with the necessary perspective to guide at a high level. Each program of KFH is nuanced and complex, and to have a board chair that understands the intricacies of doing the day-to-day work has been invaluable.
Charlie helped build out KFH’s board of directors to what it is today, one that includes expertise across many different disciplines including: education, finance, healthcare, food security, agriculture, nonprofit management, and human resources. Charlie insisted on leading the board from a “30,000 foot view”, meaning that the board has been able to focus on and tackle high level issues and strategies, rather than getting bogged down in day-to-day operational issues.
Charlie’s legacy is truly remarkable and has taken KFH so far over the past three years. Thank you, Charlie, for your care and leadership.
During this time of transition, we are pleased to announce that long-time KFHers Kathleen Bigford and Leon Malan have stepped into an interim co-chair position while we find the right person to head the board. We are deeply grateful for Kathleen and Leon’s continued commitment to KFH!
If you’re interested in seeing if a board position at the Kearsarge Food Hub is right for you, please email our Executive Director France Hahn at france@kearsargefoodhub.org.