Organization: Bread Line, Inc.
Title: Executive Director
Nominated by: Marisa Peña
It is with great enthusiasm that I nominate Hannah for their exceptional dedication as the Executive Director of Bread Line, Inc. There really isn’t a typical day for Hannah. While there are the usual tasks of writing and answering hundreds of emails and phone calls and traveling all over Alaska for meetings and presentations with local organizations and community partners, Hannah’s day can also include fixing plumbing issues, equipment maintenance, snow removal (which in Alaska is a big task), conflict mediator for our soup kitchen clients, event planner, and coordinator. As the leader of one of the smallest organizations in the CK network, with a team of six, Hannah is the embodiment of versatility.
Hannah has been an integral part of Bread Line, Inc. since 2016, assuming the role of Executive Director in 2018. They live and breathe Bread Line, Inc.’s mission of “feeding people and affirming lives.” As the fearless leader of this small but mighty anti-hunger organization in Fairbanks, Hannah helps keep everything running smoothly. Their talent for grant writing and community outreach has helped raise more than a million dollars which helped pay for food purchases for soup kitchen meals, sustain a free culinary job training program, and acquire new kitchen tools and equipment. They have also been instrumental in forging new community partnerships, reinforcing existing and building new connections with donors, organizations and volunteers while maintaining productive daily operations.
In 2023, Hannah’s impact has been profound. The Stone Soup Cafe, under their guidance, has provided up to 120 meals daily to those in need. The Stone’s Throw culinary training program has held two free cohorts annually, boasting an impressive 75% graduation rate and an 85% job retention rate. Hannah’s advocacy for food security has earned them recognition as a Hunger Action Hero by the Food Bank of Alaska. Their role in the Alaska Food Policy Council has further solidified their position as a key player in raising awareness about food insecurity in the community. All of this and more is accomplished with a positive attitude, compassion, poise, and an infectious passion that defines the heart and soul of Bread Line, Inc.
Hannah’s impact is not confined to individuals; it resonates throughout the community. Their tireless efforts and leadership make them an outstanding candidate for recognition through the Catalyst for Change Award.
