Donna Earnshaw, Cafe Kitchen Coordinator

Kitchen Mama Donna, our Notorious KMD, can take the heat not only in the kitchen but with high degrees in lab science and nutrition, as well extensive studies in the culinary arts. Donna manages all the food coming in the café and into our bellies!

Donna has lived in Bucks county Pennsylvania and Philadelphia but she chose to settle in Asheville because she loves the mountains and the people.  

Her favorite breakfast food depends on what's in season.

Aaron Ortego, Cafe Program Coordinator

Starting as a volunteer in the cafe, Aaron showed his commitment to service and demonstrated an understanding of the values we hold dear. Aaron is always the first to volunteer to help no matter the project and is a positive, calm presence in the café.

Aaron serves as a Realities of Poverty Educator for API and has led poverty education walks and panels. Aaron is passionate about community building and fostering connections with others.

While Aaron's roots lie deep in Cajun country where he grew up, he has traveled and lived all over including many years in Georgia before landing in Asheville, NC. His pastimes (in his words) include rocking chairs and bonfires. Aaron also holds a passion for playing hockey, going bass fishing, as well as jamming out to country and folk music. When asked what his favorite food is, this good southern boy quickly said, "Rice and gravy!"

mae mims, realities of poverty education coordinator

We are so excited to have Mae as our new Realities of Poverty Education Coordinator and to restart this amazing program. Mae is a dedicated community member with a wide range of talents. She has been volunteering with 12 Baskets for two and a half years, coordinating food pickups and contributing to the relaunch of the social media and marketing campaigns in 2022.

With five years of experience in project management and small business ownership, she is someone who gets things done and is accustomed to making adjustments when necessary. Outside of work, Mae enjoys hiking, gardening, and powerlifting.

Greg & Ethan, co-community groups coordinators

Both Greg and Ethan have been long time patrons and supporters of the café. We have begun lovingly referring to them as Co-CGOs. Ethan is best know for their artistic contributions and for playing chess in the garden with a cup of coffee. As for Greg, he can be found in a hat and sunglasses telling jokes, and keeping the garden clean. We are so happy to have both of these wonderful people hosting groups for 12 Baskets!

If you're interested in making our café or garden your go-to community space after hours, contact us at groups@ashevillepovertyinitiative.org or simply stop by and ask for Ethan or Greg.