OUR TEAM
OUR TEAM
DEDICATED TO THE COMMUNITY WE SERVE!
Visalia Emergency Aid is led by a group of professionals who are passionate about serving our community and working for the betterment of others. Each member of our team has compassion and skills that enable them to effectively serve our client base.
Let me introduce you to our team….
Mary Jennings, Executive Director, and CFO - Mary is a graduate of California Polytechnic University in San Luis Obispo with a degree in marketing and a lifetime resident of the Central Valley. Mary Joined the Visalia Emergency Aid family in May of 2001 and for more than a decade, she has devoted her time and efforts to the organization and to serving the community she resides in. She has worked as a tireless advocate for those in need and seeking assistance for over 20 years. Mary welcomes the opportunity to further engage our community in the work that we do to ensure everyone has the food they need to live their best life possible!
Iris Feaver, Development Director – After 20 years of Client Relationship Development in the banking industry, Iris brought her high level of experience in development and philanthropic relationships to VEA in 2008. Over the last 14 years, Iris has taken our main event the “Race Against Hunger” to the largest 5K Run in the Central Valley. She does this because she has an unwavering belief that every person should have access to healthy, nutritious food and that no child should go to bed hungry ever.
Christopher Castaneda, Thrift Store Manager –After 15 years of experience in Warehouse Management Chris joined our team in 2015. Chris oversees the day-to-day operation of the store while creating an atmosphere of respect with his staff, countless volunteers, and a long-standing relationship with those in our community. Chris’ passion for collectibles and antiques has put our VEA Thrift Store on the map as one of the premier thrift store shopping experiences.
Sheila Suell, Pantry Warehouse Manager