Jennine Sullivan: Feeding Oahu and Finding Passion in Community

Jennine Sullivan’s journey is a testament to the power of returning home and dedicating oneself to a community’s well-being. Named one of USA TODAY’s Women of the Year, Sullivan embodies the spirit of service and impactful leadership, transforming the landscape of food security on the island of Oahu. Her story is not just about providing meals; it’s about revitalizing hope, fostering connection, and building a sustainable future for the place she calls home.

At the heart of Sullivan’s work is The Pantry by Feeding Hawaii Together, a unique e-commerce food pantry that provides nutritious and culturally relevant meals to approximately 1,000 to 1,200 Oahu families each week. This innovative approach, the only one of its kind in the nation, allows families to shop online for the food they need, mirroring the convenience of modern e-commerce platforms. Registered clients can browse a pictorial catalog, selecting items to add to their virtual carts. Volunteers then meticulously pack these custom orders, which clients pick up at designated times. This model ensures dignity and choice, allowing families to select food that meets their specific needs and preferences.

Sullivan’s journey to leading The Pantry was far from linear. Born and raised on Oahu, she ventured to Boston for college and spent a decade immersed in the corporate world, primarily based in San Francisco. Despite her professional success, the pull of home remained strong. A chance encounter, a quintessentially "Hawaii thing," as Sullivan describes it, set the stage for her return. While working remotely in Hawaii, she reconnected with a childhood acquaintance, the future board chair of The Pantry. This meeting sparked a conversation about a vacant warehouse and the potential to revitalize a struggling nonprofit.

The Pantry had faced a significant setback in 2018 when it lost its downtown Kakaako lease due to development. The organization was adrift for two years, searching for a new home. Sullivan saw the vacant Kalihi warehouse as an opportunity, a chance to leverage her skills in building and developing organizations while giving back to the community she deeply cared about. The timing was serendipitous, aligning her professional expertise with her personal values.

In 2020, Sullivan returned to Oahu to assume the role of executive director, breathing new life into The Pantry. The reopening on April 1, 2020, marked a pivotal moment, especially as the COVID-19 pandemic began to exacerbate food insecurity across the island. Sullivan quickly realized the importance of adapting and innovating to meet the growing needs of the community.

The e-commerce model was crucial. It provided a safe and efficient way for families to access food while minimizing physical contact during a time of heightened health concerns. The online registration process also allowed The Pantry to collect valuable data about its clients, enabling them to tailor their services and address specific needs. Information about the number of children and seniors in a household, or the need for assistance with SNAP registration, helped The Pantry provide targeted support.

Sullivan’s role as executive director is multifaceted, encompassing everything from warehouse operations and client services to volunteer management, staffing, fundraising, and donor relations. She oversees the entire organizational structure, ensuring that The Pantry operates efficiently and effectively. Her previous experience as a business strategy consultant for startups and corporations proved invaluable in navigating the challenges of rebuilding and expanding the nonprofit.

The success of The Pantry hinges on the dedication of its volunteers. With a small core staff of only three, the organization relies heavily on the generosity of approximately 2,000 volunteers annually. Sullivan emphasizes the vital role these individuals play, stating that The Pantry’s ability to serve the community is directly linked to the support of the community itself. Volunteers contribute their time and energy to packing food orders, organizing the warehouse, and assisting with client services.

Looking ahead, Sullivan is focused on addressing the systemic challenges that contribute to food insecurity in Hawaii. Her pursuit of a master’s degree in supply chain management reflects her commitment to understanding and improving the island’s food system, which currently relies heavily on imports. By gaining expertise in this area, she hopes to contribute to a more sustainable and resilient food supply for Hawaii.

Sullivan’s personal life provides a grounding balance to her demanding work. She shares her life with her husband and two dogs, an Aussie doodle and a mixed Chihuahua, who bring joy and companionship. When she’s not working or spending time with her family, she enjoys paddling for Kailua Canoe Club, immersing herself in the natural beauty of Oahu. This connection to the ocean and the traditions of Hawaiian culture enriches her life and strengthens her commitment to the community.

When asked about the individuals who paved the way for her, Sullivan credits her parents as guiding influences. Her mother, a nutritionist, instilled in her a passion for food and community service, while her father encouraged her to pursue higher education and find a fulfilling career. She reflects on how her mother involved her in serving meals at a soup kitchen, and her continuous acts of kindness extended far beyond. Her father, originally from the Cambridge area, influenced her decision to attend college in Boston. She acknowledges the vital support of her board of directors, husband, and volunteers.

Sullivan aspires to be a role model for others, particularly her staff. She hopes to empower them with new skills and opportunities to pursue their passions. With her pursuit of a master’s degree, she sets an example of continuous learning. She hopes the organization’s efforts will contribute to a more sustainable future for Hawaii.

Looking back on her childhood, Sullivan recalls a time when she didn’t appreciate the beauty of Hawaii. Now, she cherishes the opportunity to walk to the beach with her dogs and embrace the natural wonders of the island. She remembers the sense of community and the freedom to roam and play with other neighborhood children.

Sullivan’s mother instilled a powerful lesson: find your passion. Although she initially found her mother’s advice frustrating, it ultimately inspired her to seek work that mattered to her. Her corporate career gave her valuable skills and experience, but she wanted to apply her talents to a cause she deeply believed in.

When asked about advice for her younger self, Sullivan simply says, "Don’t worry so much. It’ll be OK." She acknowledges that she was often stressed and anxious as a young person. She reflects on the resilience and adaptability that have helped her navigate challenges and find fulfillment.

One of Sullivan’s proudest moments is witnessing the growth and impact of The Pantry. She takes immense pride in the organization’s ability to serve thousands of families each week, thanks to the dedication of volunteers and the support of donors. When she first reopened the organization in 2020, it was just her. It makes her incredibly proud to see how far it has come and to know they have over 2,000 unique volunteers who come and help every year.

Sullivan invites those who are interested to learn more and get involved. She encourages people to visit thepantry.org to make a tax-deductible donation or sign up for a volunteer shift. Her unwavering dedication has transformed The Pantry into a vital lifeline for families in need, and her passion for community service serves as an inspiration to others.