VIDEO: Get to Know: Deborah E. Lans

HUDSON–Jolene Race has assumed the position of Executive Director of the Columbia County Recovery Kitchen. She formerly served as director of the Columbia County Solid Waste Department where she oversaw local transfer stations and county wide environmental initiatives and served on the Columbia County Climate Smart Committee.

In announcing Ms. Race’s appointment, Carole Clark, one of the founders of CCRK said, “In just three years, CCRK has grown from a small grass roots organization serving 200 meals a week, to a major force addressing hunger in the area with over 1,500 meals delivered throughout the county. With her extensive knowledge of the county and her managerial and executive background, Jolene will oversee our continuing growth and expansion.”

Ms. Race retired from government in December. She soon realized, as she says, “this isn’t going to work” and when she heard about the CCRK position she thought, “Maybe this would be a good fit. I wanted to stay involved in my community and I missed working and collaborating with people.”

In addition to her new position in CCRK, Ms. Race continues to work on climate issues and education. This year’s projects include a 2024 at the Columbia County Fairgrounds on September 14.