ROCKLAND — The AIO Food & Energy Assistance Board of Directors has named Alan Kearl as the new Executive Director of the nonprofit organization that provides food and heating assistance for families throughout Knox County. Kearl will replace Joe Ryan as AIO’s Executive Director beginning March 25. Kearl and Ryan will work together until April 15 to ensure a smooth transition before Ryan steps down.

Alan Kearl is a long-time Tenants Harbor resident and former executive in the beauty industry. Kearl brings extensive skills in team management, efficiency, fiscal operations, and marketing, along with dedicated compassion for helping those who struggle to make ends meet, according to AIO, in a news release. Kearl says he looks forward to building on the organization's growth and program success and carrying out the essential threads of a recently completed strategic plan

"With economic uncertainty and potential changes in safety net program funding, the opportunity for AIO to be a driving force in minimizing food and energy insecurity in Knox County is never more urgent than now," says Kearl. "We have tremendous resources, including a community that wants to care for our neighbors. Leading AIO is a special opportunity to provide the most effective and efficient conduit to providing help within our community."

Outgoing Executive Director Joe Ryan has led AIO for the past three years, helping to lead the organization through the transition to a new facility, program expansions, operational systems, and fundraising growth. As Executive Director, AIO has increased food distribution by nearly 400%, enrollment of families and individuals by more than 300%, food pantry accessibility by 300%, and funding to just under one million dollars.

"I am incredibly proud of the work we have accomplished together. We have created a model of dignity, respect, abundance, and efficiency that now serves the residents of Knox County and stands as a model for other counties throughout Maine and beyond," said Ryan. "I am very pleased to know that Alan will carry on the culture of AIO and help lead the way to continued success for the families we serve."

"Joe has done an outstanding job as Executive Director of AIO, and we are grateful for his leadership during the period of transition and growth," said Vera Roberts, chairperson of AIO's Board of Directors. "We are happy to welcome Alan to lead this vibrant and necessary organization to an exciting future."

To recognize Ryan's accomplishments at AIO, a special donation fund has been established to purchase a food transportation vehicle. While focused on raising funds for programs, Ryan wanted AIO to acquire a vehicle for the safe pick up and delivery of food.

"Establishing a local food network where food can safely move from suppliers, farmers, food rescue sources, and donors to our food pantry and then safely deliver to those who are homebound will be the next level of services to combat food insecurity," said Ryan.

Over the past year, Ryan has raised $22,500, including a generous grant from Hannaford Supermarket, towards the $60,000 goal. AIO's Directors invite the community to help complete this effort by donating to the vehicle purchase fund in honor of Joe. Donations can be made online at www.aiofoodpantry.org/vehicle or by mail to AIO Food & Energy Assistance, P.O. Box 113, Rockland, ME 04841. Please note “vehicle purchase” so gifts are designated correctly.  

AIO Food & Energy Assistance is Knox County's largest food pantry, providing weekly food assistance for more than 300 families and individuals. In 2023, we distributed over 975,000 pounds of food through over 10,000 market visits. However, AIO's role in addressing food insecurity in Knox County goes far beyond simply providing food. AIO provides collaborations with other civic-minded organizations, including Knox County Homeless Coalition, Maine Health, Maine Department of Corrections, Mid Coast School of Technology, and many others, to create a local food network where everyone can participate in fighting the effects of food insecurity.

To fight food insecurity, AIO utilizes creative and innovative approaches drawing on the experience and compassion of over 200 active volunteers, a paid staff of four, and an engaged and active Board of Directors. AIO operates at a high level of professionalism, with customer service being our top priority. We believe success in the non-profit space depends on the quality of services provided, a satisfying shopping experience, and dignity and respect for every neighbor who calls on us for help. To learn more or to volunteer, please visit www.AIOfoodpantry.org.