Meet Our Team
Snogg the Dog, world's foremost K9 philosopher and official mascot of Food Banks For Pets. Snogg is also available to due duty as mascot for any food bank starting, or that has, a pet food program.
Karen Thomas, President - Karen is the Executive Director of Friendly Hands Food Bank and Pet Food Pantry in Torrington CT. Friendly Hands is one of the largest food banks in western CT and distributes over 39,000 meals a month.
Richard Williams, Executive Director- Richard is a ten-year military veteran, a licensed aircraft mechanic, holds degrees in Biology and Environmental Science, is the founder of AGI Resource Group, and a volunteer EMT. He also has over 30 years of experience in management and leadership.
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Barbara Martel, Secretary -
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Laurie Goodreau, Treasurer - Laurie is a Certified Financial Advisor and currently works as an Investment Director where she is a member of an Investment Management team. She has had oversight responsibilities for registered investment products of approximately $15 billion. Laurie holds a B.S. in Business and Math and an M.B.A in Investment Finance.
Melissa Bettigole, Social media manager - Melissa began her career helping others as an EMT/Paramedic before transitioning into Education. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Regional Planning and a Master's Degree in Education. She is on the faculty of Northwestern Connecticut Community College and serves as Program Coordinator for the Allied Health Programs. Assisting animals is also a huge part of her life. Melissa is a CT permitted wildlife rehabilitator and shares her love and resources with her rescued adoptees including cats, dogs, ducks, and pigeons, as well as her not-rescued chicken friends.
Robin Denny, Events Coordinator - Robin is a business owner, has a Master's degree in Public Safety Business Administration, and a Bachelor's in Occupational Safety and Health. Robin has served in scouting, youth leadership training, and volunteer firefighting. She has been a Fire Marshal for five years and has extensive experience In sales and marketing.
Michele Lamb, Board Member at large -
