Our Leaders.
Ron Milton - Board President
Ron has been an active contributor to Friendship House since 2000 when he joined the Board of Directors. He has helped oversee the organization’s operations as well as it’s growth and improvements over the past two decades. Driven by his faith, he believes that “we are sent by God to help those in need”. He would like everyone to know that the team at Friendship House is here to help anyone who comes to our door.
Cathy Guattery - Thrift Shop Manager
Cathy came to Friendship House in 2019 to help in the Thrift Shop and found plenty to keep her busy. As a former small business owner herself and then as a nurse manager, she had skills that would prove valuable in her current role as the Thrift Shop Manager. Anticipating what people need and want, she keeps an eye on continuous improvement. “Every day is different. One day, we might work on providing emergency supplies for someone in need and on another we’re organizing donations or planning a kids event” she says. Cathy hopes that folks visiting the Friendship House come to learn that' it’s a place where bargains and friends can be found.
Craig Carr - Pantry Manager
Craig started as a volunteer in the Pantry at Friendship House in 2018 and in 2020 became the Food Pantry Manager. It’s an important job and Craig is up to the task. He organizes food donation pick ups, manages the inventory and food purchasing as well as making sure the Pantry complies with all rules and regulations required. Under Craig’s watch, record keeping and reporting for the pantry has been modernized and streamlined. “Our job here at Friendship House is really important. Families rely on us to help out by providing food. We’re determined to help and do everything it takes to make the Pantry a place families can count on.”
Our Board Members
Jim Loomis - Board Member
Going back 25 years while Jim and his sister ran the family furniture store, his sister had an idea called “Friendship Trees”. Local groups decorated small Christmas trees in the store and the public voted for their favorite tree by bringing in canned goods which were donated to Friendship House. Their last year in business they collected over 4000 items! So, when Jim was invited to join the board, it just seemed right. Beyond just a board member, Jim has become much more involved as an active volunteer. “We have an incredible volunteer staff and to be accepted as one of the group is truly gratifying.” He wants the community to know that everyone is welcome at Friendship House. The pantry is well stocked and the thrift shop is a wonderful place to find great bargains.
Pat Stringer -Board Member, Treasurer
Pat responded to a call for volunteers and began her involvement with Friendship House in 2018 when she was invited to a Board of Directors meeting and learned there was an immediate need for a treasurer. Having some experience in that role, she offered to help and to this day has been serving on the Board of Directors. Being part of the Friendship House team as a board member and volunteer, Pat enjoys meeting other people. About Friendship House, Pat says, “If we can offer assistance, we want people to feel free to take advantage without embarrassment. No one is here to judge because all of us have had tough times in our lives when we could use a helping hand.”
Laurie Turner- Board Member
Laurie started coming to Friendship House to donate and shop when her children were young. Soon she started volunteering on Saturdays and even brought her church youth group in to work on projects. Laurie says “I got involved here because I loved the idea of helping out the community and giving back. I have some great memories of how Friendship House has blessed those in our community and I wanted it to continue!” Laurie is proud to be a part of the Friendship House team; great people who give of their time and have become friends. Laurie wants everyone to know that" “Friendship House cares and will help anyone. We welcome you to stop by and see all the changes we’ve made. Come shop, donate or volunteer - I know you’ll enjoy it as much as I do”.
Ed Moberg - Board Member
Ed has been a valued board member for years. His quiet and thoughtful presence serves the team well in deliberation and decision making. Ed is a friend of the various local communities and assures that they benefit from what Friendship House has to offer.
Petra Congdon - Board Member
Living close to Friendship House, Petra’s curiosity brought her one day to visit. The work being done for the community made such an impression on her, she wanted to be part of such a giving and caring organization. She began volunteering in 2016 and two years later became a board member. Petra finds it gratifying to see how Friendship House has grown and increased its services ultimately reaching many more people. Petra says she “is so proud of everyone on the team because they all love this community and give generously of their time and efforts”. Petra’s message for the community is “Friendship House is here for you and if you have any special needs, wishes or suggestions, just let us know!”