About Us
Our History
Our Launch
Designed to provide fresh, nutritious meals for children, we laid the groundwork for better eating habits from a young age.
Educational Initiatives
Focused on empowering students through understanding the importance of nutritious foods.
Cooking Classes Initiative
Our classes aimed to teach kids how to prepare healthy meals, encouraging lifelong healthy habits.
Contracted with local Daycare
Contracted with local daycare centers in Collier County to provide daily deliveries of breakfast, lunch and snacks, feeding over 1000 students per day.
Our Mission is Simple
At School Lunch Matters, we are dedicated to providing healthy foods to local daycare centers and after school programs. We believe in educating young students about the benefits of healthy eating and offer cooking classes to inspire better eating habits for life.
Nutritious Foods
Providing healthy and balanced meals to children in need.
Health Education
Educating students on the significance of healthy eating practices.
Cooking Workshops
Hands-on classes to help kids learn to make their own healthy meals.
Community Support
Enhancing community health through nutrition and education for children.
- LUNCH MATTERS
Board of Directors
Founder
Kathleen (Katie) is a proud Naples native, returning to her hometown after college and a successful career in Manhattan, where she worked at Smith Barney (Morgan Stanley). She built and sold successful mortgage and title companies, then shifted her focus to improving children's nutrition. Her passion for making a difference led her to earn ambassadorship with Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution and to establish School Lunch Matters. Today, her nonprofit serves over 1,000 healthy meals daily to children in need across Collier County, embodying her commitment to community well-being and wellness. Kathleen's unwavering dedication continues as she works tirelessly to expand access to nutritious meals for more children in her hometown
Development Director
Steve Troyano, has over 25 years of leadership experience in banking, school construction, and sales, including roles at National Westminster Bank, Chase Manhattan Bank, and Nickerson Corporation. His career spans project management, fundraising, and strategic planning, equipping him to support impactful community initiatives. Rooted in his own experience as a first-generation American from an underserved community, he is passionate about ensuring children have access to nutritious meals. Outside of work, Steve enjoys volunteering, playing golf or pickleball, and reading, always driven by a desire to give back.
Community Engagement Chair
Dionne has been a Naples resident since 2014. She is a licensed Dietitian practicing in Bonita Bay. Prior to that, she was a corporate executive for major retailers in New York and Los Angeles. She also founded a grass-fed beef business in Santa Barbara. Dionne has been actively involved with various non-profit organizations throughout the country for many years. With a background in marketing, a master’s in Nutrition, and a passion for philanthropy, her extensive experience enables her to make a meaningful impact in our community.
Nutritional and Wellness Strategist
J Zulmen, RN, is a bilingual cardiac and recovery addiction nurse with over 18 years of experience, currently working at Naples Community Hospital and DLC. Her passion for preventative care and health education drives her efforts to empower children and families in Naples through School Lunch Matters. Outside of work, she enjoys paddleboarding, sunsets, and staying active, while supporting her daughter's journey to become a nurse. Zulmen is dedicated to fostering a healthier, more resilient community.
Volunteer Board Member
Raegan was born and raised in Naples, where she has developed a genuine passion for understanding her community and giving back. As a dedicated Realtor in Naples, she truly enjoys helping clients discover their dream homes and become active members of the neighborhood. While she attended local high school she worked in the food industry which provided her with valuable insights into food access and its crucial role in shaping our community.
Volunteer Board Member
Mary Ellen moved from Buffalo, NY to Naples in 1970, where she dedicated herself to raising her family and building a successful real estate company in Naples where she was the Broker/Owner for over 30 years. Throughout her time in Naples, she was actively involved in the community, serving on several volunteer boards. She made history as the first woman president of the Naples YMCA. An avid tennis player, Mary Ellen spent many days at Cambier Park participating in tournaments. She is also passionate about supporting the next generation, proudly contributing to School Lunch Matters to promote healthy nutrition and ensure that the youngest in our community of Collier County receive nutritious meals daily.
Volunteer Board Member
Ryan was born and raised in Collier County, where he attended local schools. Currently a full-time college student, he dedicates his free time to volunteering with School Lunch Matters, leveraging his technical, computer, and marketing skills to support the organization. Having grown up in the community, Ryan deeply understands its needs and is honored to give back through his efforts.