Carrie Klingelsmith, Executive Director
Start Date: November 2021
Carrie and her husband, Kendall, live in Petoskey with their two sons and two dogs. Carrie has a bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University in Recreation, Parks and Leisure Service Administration. She has a background in program development, fundraising, grant writing, event planning and execution, and community engagement.
Before joining Manna Food Project, Carrie worked in the public and private sector. She worked as a Parks and Recreation Director as well as a Planning Professional.
Carrie has a passion for enhancing the quality of life for all people. “I look forward to serving the community and making a positive impact for the people of Northern Michigan.”
Gabrielle Billion, Agency Relations Coordinator
Start Date: May 2008
Gabby grew up in Kalamazoo and moved to New Mexico where she worked in the hotel restaurant business for 25 years throughout the western states. She resettled to Northern Michigan in 2004. She and her husband have seven children, two grandchildren, and a “grand dog.” They enjoy hiking, kayaking, and exploring the Michigan outdoors.
Gabby came to Manna because she had the desire to “make a difference,” and she quickly fell in love with our caring community of volunteers. She loves to listen to their stories.
“The heart of Manna is its volunteers and employees. Each has made a significant difference in the lives of this community.”
Katlyn Hansen, Business Manager
Start Date: October 2022
Katlyn and her husband, Billy, live in Petoskey with their two children and two dogs. Katlyn has a bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University in Public Health and Nutrition. Katlyn’s background is in higher education, event planning, program development, community outreach and bookkeeping.
Katlyn worked previously at Manna and most recently at North Central Michigan College.
“I am extremely excited to be back at Manna. I’m blessed to have this opportunity, to serve our community and help those in need.”
Matthew Flickema, Volunteer & Communications Coordinator
Start Date: July 2021
Matthew is a 20 plus year resident of Petoskey Michigan. Matthew has a bachelor’s degree in political science from Michigan State University focusing on local government and nonprofit management. Before joining Manna, he started his career as an administrative staffer in Government Relations, followed by working as an executive for the Boy Scouts of America.
Matthew resides in the Walloon Lake area near family. He is a proud uncle of triplets. His hobbies include winter activities, hiking, camping, and enjoying Northern Michigan summers.
“I find immense joy in participating with Manna’s volunteers. Working with mission oriented people moving towards a common goal is exciting.”
Eric Foster, Warehouse Manager
Start Date: October 2018
Eric Foster worked in shipping and receiving with Mitchell Graphics for 13 years before coming to Manna. Eric likes to hunt, fish, and maintain his hobby farm with his wife, Amanda, and three kids.
He takes pride in working directly with our volunteers. “I love talking to them and learning their stories. We see so many people who have amazing histories and just want to give back. I’m so glad to be a part of it.”
Collin Hart, Operations Coordinator
Start Date: January 2023
Collin Hart comes to Manna after a successful career in inventory and operational management at local organizations in Northern Michigan.
Collin takes pride in his cooking ability and is Manna’s go to person for new recipes.
Matthew McGuiness, Manna Pantry and Warehouse Coordinator
Start Date: March 2020
Matt is a Petoskey native, growing up with three brothers near Pickerel Lake where he and his wife, Jessica, are raising four children – two boys and two girls.
Matt has many talents – from carpentry to tree trimming to machine mechanics. He loves the outdoors and spends summer evenings and weekends on the family pontoon boat. Matt also hunts and has donated venison each year to Manna through the Petoskey Sunrise Rotary “Venison for Manna” annual fundraiser.
“I know how important Manna is in this community,” Matt said. “Not just to the people in need, but to all the families who come in to volunteer. I’m excited to work with such great people.”