This is one of the 12 finalists for the Herald Business Journal’s annual Emerging Leaders awards for 2025. The winner will be named at an event on April 8.
Kellie Lewis, 39
One of the achievements that Kellie Lewis is the most proud of is starting quarterly open houses at the Edmonds Food Bank.
In 2024, the marketing and communications director for the food bank hosted five open houses. The events invited the community to help bag food and create art. The United Methodist Church hosted the open houses, which drew hundreds of community members of all ages.
While essential items like rice and oats were bagged at each open house, each event was different.
Lewis said each event highlights another nonprofit or community food bank program, and there is always an artistic way to be involved.
Lewis said the issues are often greater than a lack of food for someone experiencing food insecurity. It could be housing issues or a need for social services or transportation.
She said the mission of the food bank is strengthened by showcasing others who also support the community.
This experience highlights my collaborative leadership style,” she said. “Bringing people together around a shared vision, empowering them to contribute their expertise, and creating outcomes that benefit our customers and create community bonds.”
Lewis said she also wants to empower volunteers so they can make a difference — from a 6-year-old visiting with their parents to high school students on internships at the food bank.
She holds a degree in communication and a minor in Latin American studies. Her work experience includes community organizing, event planning and advising high school and college students.
In her spare time, Lewis enjoys spending time with her partner and two young children, working on her Spanish language skills and following her beloved Seattle Mariners.
“I am committed to fostering connections within our community, especially by engaging families with children who want to instill the value of volunteering and uplift community nonprofits as part of their family values,” said the marketing and communications director.
Randy Diamond: 425-339-3097; randy.diamond@heraldnet.com.
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