Juan Arce

(Bio and picture will be updated shortly)

Richard Cerrutti, Driver

I joined EHP as a driver in July of 2000 and I continue in that role today. I bring many years of driving experience to EHP, having previously worked as a driver in the industrial field, and with a water company. I owned my own recycling business, have carpenter experience, and am also a certified EMT.

Maleah Choi, Development Consultant

I started my career with EHP in 1999 as a Development Assistant, eventually transitioning into the position of Associate Director of EHP.  In 2007, my family and I relocated to the Houston area where I have continued to work for EHP as a Development Consultant.  I am responsible for grantwriting, fundraising, marketing and development.

Donald Hunter, Operations Manager, Donations Coordinator

I was born in Northern California (San Francisco to be exact); I grew up and went to school in the Peninsula area. Since joining the EHP team in July of 2004, my duties as Operations Manager are “OPEN” with a mindset of “do whatever it takes to keep EHP running!” This variety of responsibilities can range from doing pickups in the EHP truck, to presenting the monthly program report to the board, to assisting donors on site.

Melanie Jones-Carter, Administrative Manager

I joined EHP in February 2009 as the Administrative Manager. I am responsible for the administrative side of the organization, human resources administration, supervision of administrative staff, and development of the volunteer program. I am also responsible for facilities maintenance and assisting with programs when needed. I have a BA from Utah State University with a degree in Nutrition and Food Science and Business Administration. I previously worked at Stanford University, GES Exposition Services, California Culinary Academy, and most recently with IKEA.

Lea Martinez, Family Service Coordinator

I am responsible for the intake of participants as they come to EHP seeking food and other support and referrals. I oversee/work with Family Harvest, Produce Mobile, Women’s Support Group, and Children’s Summer Program. I have received several certifications from Canada College in the social services field and I have a Family Development Credential from Cornell University. I am a member of the Bay Area African American Health Initiative and am currently serving on the Voices of Recovery committee working with individuals affected by drugs and alcohol.

Jackie Owens, Client Service Assistant

I am responsible for the food pantry. I receive and organize food donations, including fresh produce, canned goods and bread, and I supervise volunteers. My goal is to keep the food closet running as smoothly as a grocery store. I enjoy working closely with individuals, helping them to empower themselves with resources and referrals beyond food. I find my job very fulfilling as I think of the hardships and challenges I have had to overcome while raising two children on my own.

Lesia Preston, Executive Director

As Executive Director I am responsible for EHP operations, serve as EHP’s face to the broader community, and work with the board of directors to plan for EHP’s future. I joined EHP in 1984. I am responsible for the development, growth and success of EHP’s Children’s Christmas Party, Family Sharing Program (formerly Adopt-a-Family), and the current Women’s Support Group. I have extensive experience in program administration and case management. I currently serve on several community committees; they include ATOD (San Mateo County Alcohol, Tobacco & Other Drugs), EPA Mental Health Advisory Group, and Voices of Recovery. I have an Associate of Arts Degree in Social Science, and recent certifications including health and wellness (from Critical Mass Health Conductors); food and nutrition education (from University of CA); and enhancing health for Bay Area residents (from Champions for Change). I have previously worked at the American Red Cross as an office assistant; providing home care for disabled children (Green Pastures); and as a Crime Prevention Officer for the San Mateo County Sheriff’s Department.

Todd Quackenbush, Assistant Donations Coordinator

Hello, my name is Todd Quackenbush and I have worked at EHP for about 8 years now. I am the donations coordinator which means that I spend time answering telephone calls from donors who wish to have clothing and household items picked up from their homes. Once I have received all necessary information, I type it into my talking computer and print it out so the scheduler and driver for the pickups can use the information. I am totally blind and I am a very independent person. I attended Palo Alto schools -- Juana Briones elementary, J.L.S. middle school, and Gunn high school where I graduated with a 3.72 grade point average in June 1995. Besides working at EHP Wednesdays and Fridays, I attend De Anza College two days a week where I am currently taking a speech communications course and am on my way towards earning a certificate of achievement in communication.

Carmen (Emmett) Sinclair, Furniture Services

When I came here from Nicaragua in 1986, EHP was gracious in helping me and my six children. I went to school to receive my certification as a nursing assistant, then went on to do private duty nursing for five years, until the patient I was caring for transitioned to hospice care. I have always loved helping people. While I was not working I came to EHP to volunteer, and then I was hired as a warehouse coordinator. My main duties are the distribution of furniture and non-food donations, and keeping the warehouse organized. I also help in other areas as needed.

Suliana Vakameilalo, Program Assistant

(Bio and picture will be updated shortly)

Gloria Robles Wallace, Bookkeeper

I have worked for EHP since 2002 as a contract bookkeeper (one or two days a week). I handle the financial accounts and have provided other administrative support as needed. I founded my own business, Wallace Bookkeeping, in 1990 specializing in support for small businesses because I love being immersed in the excitement and creativity that is unique to each non-profit organization and business I work with. I have a passion for EHP’s mission and am delighted to be a part of the team. I am a San Francisco native with a BS degree in accounting from San Francisco State University.