Who We Are
The Chubby’s Project is a non-profit organization that builds and supports a full circle of giving and receiving: When our volunteers, donors, community organizations, local business, schools and customers at Aunt Chubby’s Luncheonette come together to support those in need - our whole community becomes stronger and closer.
More than 80 community volunteers from eight (and younger) to 80 (and older) form the backbone of The Chubby’s Project. They donate time and talent, including behind the scenes support for social media, our website, and accounting.
30 volunteers - every week - to help prepare food, stock the pantry, run food drives, pack lunches and make deliveries. Many have been with the project since its inception.
A six-member board of trustees guides the work and provides stewardship.
Brenda Considine, President
Lyn Farrugia, Founder
Sean Jackson
Dennis O’Neill
Jamie Sapoch, Secretary
Kyle Van Arsdale
Part time staff keep the organization running smoothly. John Haney, our part time Executive Director, and longtime Hopewell resident, oversees the day-to-day operations and coordinates events and outreach. Manny, our part time cook, plans a weekly menu based on seasonal produce and prepares meals with volunteers according to the need.
We have a group of dedicated volunteers who donate many hours each week to oversee each part of this many faceted program. Lead program volunteers coordinate the Lunch Program, Food Pantry Donations/Education, and our Tuesday Soup delivery. One part-time employee handles administrative duties and fundraising.
The Chubby’s Project currently collaborates with the Hopewell Council of Churches, the Hopewell Elementary School PTO, the Hopewell Valley Municipal Alliance, and the D&R Greenway Land Trust.
Our Board Of Directors
John Haney, Executive Director
John is a resident of Hopewell, frequent patron of the Luncheonette, and educator. Prior to retirement, John served with distinction as Principal of several elementary schools across central New Jersey, including Elizabeth Avenue School in Franklin Township (2010-2022), Cranbury School (2007-2010) and Clinton Public School (1999-2007). His work included technology integration, extensive work with ESL and special education, student performance data analysis, staff retention and recruitment, and oversight of a number of capital renovations and improvement projects. He was recognized with the Blue Ribbon School Recognition in 2009. He has served as President of the Board of Directors of the ARC Mercer and, currently, as Grand Knight (Knights of Columbus) Hopewell Council 7103. John’s primary responsibilities will include securing funding resources and strengthening systems to ensure the work of the Chubby’s Project continues for many years to come.
Meet more of the Team
Lyn Farrugia, Founder
Townsend Olcott, Lunch Boss
