[Hyannis, MA] – CARE for the Cape and Islands, Inc. (CARE) is proud to announce the addition of new board members and advisors for 2025. These strategic appointments come as the organization continues to expand its impact and deepen its commitment to inspiring stewardship to preserve and protect the uniqueness of our coastal community.
Executive Committee:
Heather Doyle transitions from Interim Chair to Board Clerk, with Jim Miller stepping in as Chair. Heather’s leadership during her tenure was instrumental in guiding CARE through a period of growth and transition. The organization extends its heartfelt gratitude for her dedication and vision.
Jim Miller has been on the CARE board for four years and has a strong background as an educator and administrator in hospitality and tourism management. Since returning to the Cape, he has focused his energies and interests in nonprofit leadership and community engagement. A longtime advocate for environmental and business oriented conservation, Jim has been actively involved in numerous initiatives aimed at protecting the Cape and Islands’ unique ecosystems. His leadership will drive CARE’s mission forward with renewed energy and focus.
Kim Marchand (President and CEO of CapeSpace and MarchandCFO) continues on the Board as Treasurer. Her expertise has had a significant impact and has stewarded the organizational maturity CARE has today.
CARE is thrilled to welcome the following individuals to its board and advisory team.
New Board Members:
Isabelle Defrancesco: Northeast Regional Manager, Surfrider Foundation – Founder of the Surfrider
Foundation Cape & Islands Chapter, Isabella brings a deep commitment to protecting the region’s coastal environments. With a background in grassroots advocacy, Isabelle has been a vocal proponent of reducing plastic waste and promoting green initiatives.
Ryan Surprenantt: Owner, Sublime Vizions - A passionate environmental advocate, Ryan is the owner of Sublime Vizions, a Cape Cod-based business specializing in eco-friendly ocean , beach and dog inspired apparel that raise funds for non-profits. Ryan has previously worked expanding the impact of other environmentally focused organizations such as Clean Ocean Access.
Jill Talladay: CARE Founder - After transitioning from the Executive Director role at the end of 2024, Jill
continues her commitment to creating a responsible environment as a member of our Board. Under her leadership CARE has provided nearly $100,000 in funding for over 65 unique projects, launched the Take Care Cape Cod environmental stewardship campaign, h osted annual CARE Day s since 2014, and initiated the Taking Care of Cape Cod Summits in 2018.
David Ziemba: Retired Dean Emeritus Learning Resources and Student Success at Cape Cod Community College – An educator with a focus on environmental science and sustainability, David serves as a faculty member at Cape Cod Community College. His academic background and hands-on experience in environmental research makes David a key asset to CARE’s efforts to educate and engage the community.
A team of esteemed professionals who will provide strategic guidance and support to the organization, CARE is proud to announce the formation of its formal Advisory Board.
CARE Advisory Board:
Angela Bucar: Executive Director, Chatham Chamber Of Commerce - Skilled at developing collaborative partnerships, Angela’s marketing expertise and leadership advocating for small business will help ensure CARE’s continued growth and success.
Maggie French: Principal, Living Whole Coaching – Essential to CARE’s transition and growth in 2024,
Maggie brings expertise in organizational behavior and strategic planning.
Stephen Smith: Executive Director (ret.), Cape Cod Technology Council, Inc. – Also returning, Stephen is a seasoned business leader and philanthropist with a passion for sustainable development.
Kevin Tremblay: Business Development Executive, OpenCape Corporation – Joining the Advisory Board for the first time, Kevin is a prominent advocate for environmental sustainability.
Dr. Jane Ward: Physician/USAF (ret.) – A returning member, Dr. Ward is a respected environmental
scientist and educator whose research and advocacy work have been pivotal in advancing conservation efforts across the Cape and Islands.
John Yonce: Senior Vice President, Strategic Development, Clean-Seas, Inc. – After a short hiatus, John
returns to CARE, bringing his extensive experience in nonprofit management and community
development.
Looking Ahead to 2025:
The addition of these talented individuals reflects CARE’s ongoing commitment to fostering collaboration and innovation. Their diverse perspectives and expertise will help guide the organization’s works to address pressing challenges such as climate change, coastal resilience, waste reduction, and sustainable tourism. “We are thrilled to welcome Isabelle, Ryan, and David to the CARE team,” said Jim Miller.“Their passion and expertise will be instrumental as we continue to build a sustainable future for the Cape and Islands. Together, we can make a lasting impact on this special region we all call home.”
CARE for the Cape and Islands invites the community to join them in supporting these efforts. Learn more about CARE’s initiatives and get involved by visiting www.careforthecapeandislands.org .
About CARE for the Cape and Islands:
The CARE for the Cape & Islands mission is to inspire stewardship to preserve and protect the natural, cultural, and historical treasures of Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. Using a solutions-based, collaborative approach, CARE develops and supports sustainability activities for our coastal community. By providing nearly $100,000 in funding for over 65 unique projects since 2012 we preserve our past, steward our present, and champion a sustainable future for the Cape and Islands.