Leadership

Named the organization's new Executive Director in April 2023, Gwen O'Brien brings a wealth of experience and energy to Feed Northland Kids.  Gwen brings over 20 years of non-profit and child-welfare experience to the role.  She remains active in her community including board roles for both Kansas City Suicide Awareness and Prevention Program (KCSAPP) and Park Hill CAFY.   Gwen attended the University of Alabama, where she earned a Master's Degree in Social Work with a concentration in children, youth, and families.  Gwen was also a three-time NCAA All-American gymnast at the University of Alabama.  Gwen and her husband, Jeremy, have lived in the Northland for twenty years and currently reside in Parkville, MO with their three sons.  

Jean has been a resident of Gladstone since 1975.  She is a former aid to the late Congressman Jerry Litton and late Senator Tom Eagleton. She has served on the board of Directors for the Kansas City Ronald McDonald Houses, including a term as President of the Board.  She owns a market research consulting business that has been in operation since 1992.  She has served on the Gladstone City Council since 2011, including 3 years as Mayor.  Jean has volunteered for 20 years as a Youth Friend in the North Kansas City School District, and is a former member of the Advisory Board for the Kansas City Assistance League.

Michael Atchison hosts the show Revival on 90.9 The Bridge in Kansas City, and he has published three books — the novels Mellow Submarine and XL, and True Sons: A Century of Missouri Tigers Basketball. Michael formerly practiced law at a large Kansas City firm, primarily as a commercial litigator. He has long served on boards of many local nonprofit organizations, focusing on issues related to education and poverty. 

Jeff retired from Ford Motor Company after more than 32 years as a financial analyst/supervisor.  He has lived in the Northland since 1994.  He enjoys playing golf and spectator sports of all kinds.  He and his wife Teresa have two sons and reside in Parkville.

Owner of Miller-Donnelli Agency Inc. where he has worked for over 30 years.  Is a life-long Platte County resident and active community supporter of a variety of causes.  He lives in Platte City with his wife and 3 children.  He enjoys Rotary and spending time on the family farm.

Derek was born and raised in the Northland.  After graduating from Oak Park in 1996, he obtained his Business degree from Mizzou in 2001.  He currently  lives in the Northland with his wife and two children and has run a real estate advising company since 2009.

Maggie is a lifelong resident of Clay County and a graduate of Smithville High School. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Truman State University and a master’s degree from UMKC. She served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Ecuador and was a teacher at North Kansas City High School before running for office. She represents District 17 in Clay County in the Missouri Senate. Maggie lives in Kansas City with her husband Gregg and their three kids.

Michael is an investment banker, community volunteer and board member for several organizations in the Kansas City area. He received his law degree from the University of Missouri - Kansas City Law School, and was a practicing attorney for many years. As an officer of the Northland Community Foundation, Michael is a founding member of Feed Northland Kids.

Martin handles the behind-the-scenes work with our social media presence and assists with the website as needed. Married and living just east of Gladstone, Martin works for Oracle Cerner and has volunteered with Feed Northland Kids since close to its inception.