Meals on Wheels of Lee’s Summit is proud to announce the promotion of Jenni Edwards to Operations Director!
You know Jenni as the friendly voice on the phone, the efficient volunteer manager in the kitchen and the grateful soul greeting our delivery drivers, but there is so much more to this remarkable woman! We sat down with Jenni to discuss what led her to Meals on Wheels in 2021 and her goals for the future.
Q: What did you study in college?
A: “I have a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration from UMKC and a Masters in Speech-Language Pathology from KU. I spent 7 years practicing as a Speech-Language Pathologist, primarily with infants, toddlers and elementary-aged students.”
Q: Why did you decide to move to the nonprofit world?
A: “While I enjoyed being a Speech-Language Pathologist, I always loved the nonprofit world, and something just spoke to me about the Meals on Wheels job posting when I saw it. I thought it was the perfect combination of my business background and desire to help others in my community in a different, less clinical way.”
Q: How has this promotion changed your day-to-day duties?
A: “I am continuing with everything I was doing as the Operations Coordinator, while adding in the billing aspect and increasing my duties with community relations and volunteer/partner appreciation. In addition, I am now a full-time employee of Meals on Wheels of Lee’s Summit and loving it!”
Q: What do you find meaningful about your new position with Meals on Wheels?
A: “One of my favorite things about being the Operations Director for Meals on Wheels of Lee’s Summit is how deeply embedded this organization is in the Lee’s Summit community- I love being a piece of that! We are all over this community, providing smiling faces and nutritious meals to folks who might not otherwise have them. We are there for clients and families when they need us. That truly fills my cup!”
Q: What do you hope to accomplish for Meals on Wheels as our new Operations Director?
A: “I want to help volunteers be their best; I want to continue to guide this organization, helping it run smoothly, efficiently, and with care for our clients, volunteers, LSMC partners, and the community.”
Q: Meals on Wheels of Lee’s Summit continues to grow and so has your role in the organization. Knowing the impact you’ve made, how does this promotion make you feel?
A: “I am so appreciative of the Board's confidence in me to promote me to Director. I really feel like my gifts and talents match this position so well; I am affirmed that I am in the perfect role for me and my family! It feels amazing to grow within this organization- it is well-run from the top down, with a smart, compassionate, and dedicated Board who want only the best for MOW and for the LS community. I am grateful to be a part of it!”
Congratulations Jenni, we’re so lucky to have you!