Exciting Leadership Updates and New Faces at Midwest Food Bank

Karl (left) turns the reins over to John.

We are excited to share some important leadership updates at Midwest Food Bank!

Karl Steidinger has stepped into the role of Procurement Director for Midwest Food Bank. Since 2017, Karl has been serving as the Executive Director of our Florida division in Ft. Myers. In his new role, Karl will oversee food procurement for the entire organization, ensuring we meet the growing needs of our 2,400 non-profit partners.

"I'm honored to continue supporting Midwest Food Bank in this new capacity," says Karl. "Our mission to share the love of Christ by providing food for those in need remains my top priority."

John McKinnon will be stepping into the role of Executive Director for our Florida division. John joined us in 2023 as the Community Relations and Volunteer Coordinator and has over 20 years of experience in business and non-profit management. Previously, John served as the Executive Director and CEO of several Adult and Teen Challenge locations.

"Midwest Food Bank is dedicated to helping those in need while setting a Christ-like example," says John. "I am truly grateful for the opportunity to serve here."

We look forward to the continued growth and impact under their leadership! Please join us in congratulating Karl and John on their new roles and supporting them as they lead us forward.

We are happy to introduce Juan Pablo, who, thanks to a grant from CareerSource of Southwest Florida, is now part of our team at Midwest Food Bank. The grant was in response to the challenges and unemployment caused by Hurricane Ian. Juan will work with us as a Development and Marketing Assistant until September.

Juan is a talented artist and a skilled administrator. He runs his own mural company, which shows his strong business skills. He knows how to manage projects, work with teams, and handle the challenges of running a business.

Juan is also a student at Florida Southwestern State College, where he has a scholarship. His commitment to learning more adds to his ability to help our mission.

In his role at Midwest Food Bank, Juan will use his skills in creative work, social media, and other marketing tasks. He is grateful for the support from CareerSource of SWFL and the chance to continue his work through this grant.

"The impact of Hurricane Ian has been profound, but through effective administration and strong communication, we can bring hope and renewal to our community," says Juan. "My experience running a mural company and my dedication to strong communication and ongoing education will help me contribute meaningfully to the mission of Midwest Food Bank."

We are pleased to support Juan and excited to see the positive changes he will bring to our community. His story shows the power of resilience, creativity, and community support in tough times. With his artistic talents and administrative skills, Juan Pablo is set to make a big difference in our region's recovery and growth.

We are pleased to announce that MacKenzie Nelson joined the Midwest Food Bank team as the new Agency Coordinator. With a solid background in nonprofit work and a strong commitment to community service, MacKenzie is well-prepared to contribute to our mission.

MacKenzie's experience spans over a decade in the nonprofit sector, notably with the Red Cross in donor recruitment. She has made significant contributions to the community, serving as the 2024 Fund Development Co-chair for the Junior League of Peoria and as a member of the Board of Directors for Globalfest Central Illinois. Her past involvement includes supporting the Peoria Symphony, The Women's Fund of Central Illinois, and various other causes in Central Illinois.

Outside of her professional life, MacKenzie enjoys spending time with her husband Brett, their two children, Lincoln and Nevada, and their pets, a mini golden doodle named Willie Nelson and a silver cat called Sterling. She finds inspiration in Emily Dickinson's words, "Hope is the thing with feathers, that perches in the soul, and sings the tune—without the words, and never stops—at all," and in the scripture from Esther 4:14, "Perhaps you were created for such a time as this."

"MacKenzie's experience in nonprofit leadership and her dedication to service align well with our goals at Midwest Food Bank," says Christa Staley, Executive Director. "Her skills will be crucial as we continue to serve our community effectively."

MacKenzie expressed her gratitude with these heartfelt words: "Thank you to the entire Midwest Food Bank Family for the warm welcome! I thank God for this tremendous opportunity to be connected such an important mission."

Please join us in welcoming MacKenzie. We look forward to the skills and energy she brings to our team and are excited to see the impact of her work.

We are thrilled to announce a significant addition to our team at Peoria Midwest Food Bank. Meiosha Zobac joined us as the part-time Grant Manager for the Peoria and Bloomington DHS IL EATS grants.

Meiosha comes to us with a robust background in project management from her years at Caterpillar Inc. (CAT), where she honed her leadership skills and project expertise. Her experience will be invaluable in her new role managing our critical grant efforts.

Meiosha's favorite scripture is Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen."

"I believe good Christian service puts faith into action, and MFB is participating in good service," says Meiosha. "I'm excited to help execute the MFB mission and vision."

Outside of her professional life, Meiosha is an avid cyclist and is training for her second century ride (100 miles) this coming September. She has been happily married for 15 years.

"We're excited to have Meiosha join the MFB family, says Christa Staley, Executive Director of Midwest Food Bank Peoria. "Her expertise in project management and dedication to service make her an ideal addition to our team."

Please join us in extending a warm welcome to Meiosha as she prepares to help us advance our mission and make a significant impact in our community.