Marissa Parisi is the Executive Director of Hunger Free Vermont. She is considered an expert in developing sustainable programs, strategic planning, organizational development, and fundraising for non-profits. Her commitment to ending hunger in Vermont stems from an acute understanding of the interconnectedness of social justice issues and the fundamental role that hunger plays in strengthening our communities across the entire age spectrum.  In her time at Hunger Free Vermont she has led the organization through an extensive strategic planning process, transformed the organization’s name and brand, and relocated the offices to a space more conducive to collaboration.  She continually encourages staff to bring their creativity, love, passion, and courage to work with them every day.  Marissa has grown the organization to include outreach on senior nutrition, increased nutrition education programming, and expansion of the Hunger Councils now recognized as a national model for community-based activism.

Marissa grew up in Upstate New York and worked in her mother’s home childcare center where together they made breakfast, lunch, and snacks every day using the Child and Adult Care Food program. As an adult Marissa’s been the primary care provider for loved-ones in her life where she has utilized her interest in nutrition to harness the power of food to nourish and heal.

Prior to joining Hunger Free Vermont, Marissa was the Director of Donor Relations at Planned Parenthood of Northern New England. Marissa received her Master of Science degree in Organizational Management and Leadership from Springfield College, School of Human Services. Marissa lives in Shelburne with her husband Mike and their cats, dog, and new bee hive.