Meet the New Faces of 412 Food Rescue’s Advancement Team!

Danielle is a connector, strategist, and champion who turns generosity into action, inviting others to be part of something bigger. With over 15 years of nonprofit experience, she specializes in fundraising and strategic development, helping to grow support and partnerships that fuel 412 Food Rescue’s mission.

Since joining 412 Food Rescue in 2021, Danielle has been dedicated to expanding the organization’s impact. In November 2024, she stepped into the role of Vice President of Advancement, leading the fundraising department. More than just raising funds, her work is about bringing people together. She shines a light on the employees, volunteers, food donors, nonprofit partners, and financial supporters who make food rescue possible, inviting others to join them—because real impact happens when people step up. She knows firsthand the power of this movement, having started as a volunteer herself, and she believes that whether someone gives time, food, or financial support, every action adds up to meaningful change.

For Danielle, this work isn’t just a job—it’s a source of hope. Every day, she sees proof that small acts of generosity can transform food access and sustainability, and she’s here to open the door for more people to be part of it.

When she’s not championing food rescue, you’ll likely find Danielle on her yoga mat, creating art, or hanging out with Rooty, 412 Food Rescue’s new mascot!

Looking to make a meaningful contribution or want to learn more about strategic giving? Danielle would love to connect! Reach her on LinkedIn, at danielledewitt@412foodrescue.org or (412) 746-7585.

What’s your ultimate food rescue theme song? 

“So Fresh, So Clean” by OutKast, because 80-90% of rescued food is still fresh and ready for a second chance! Plus, it’s an absolute bop—once it gets in your head, it’s impossible not to sing along whenever someone else plays it. A perfect anthem for food that’s too good to waste!” 

If you could turn any kitchen appliance into a superhero, which one would it be and why?

A toaster! Inspired by The Brave Little Toaster, a childhood movie that has a special place in my heart. It also perfectly ties into the concept of teamwork and conservation. Just like in the movie, where the toaster and other appliances work together to stay relevant and useful, food rescue is all about collaboration—making sure nothing goes to waste and everything has a purpose, even when it seems overlooked.

Dedicated to fostering meaningful community impact and expanding opportunities for all, Tara brings more than a decade of experience in nonprofit development, with a specialization in corporate and foundation relations. With a background in environmental studies, 412 Food Rescue perfectly bridges her passion for helping others and fighting for the environment. 

Since joining the organization in 2023, she has expanded her role and now serves as 412 Food Rescue’s Corporate and Foundation Partnerships Manager. In this capacity, Tara cultivates relationships with corporations and foundations at both local and national levels, driving institutional giving to strengthen our funding base. Her expertise plays a pivotal role in enhancing corporate engagement and securing vital support to sustain and grow our programs.

When she’s not building partnerships to support 412 Food Rescue’s mission, Tara enjoys unwinding with a good suspense novel or caring for her foster cats, an extension of her passion for helping those in need, whether they have two legs or four.

Interested in putting your corporation’s or foundation’s values into meaningful action? Find Tara on LinkedIn or email tara@412foodrescue.org.

What is your best food rescue story?

This past Black Friday, while many were braving the crowds for holiday deals, I was on a different kind of mission, rescuing food from the Heinz History Center. As I loaded up the cart of donated sandwiches and snacks, I came across Santa Claus himself! I couldn’t help myself and had to grab a picture. I am pretty sure my good deed landed me on the nice list this year.

New to the 412 Food Rescue team, Jen is driven by the belief that stronger communities are built when people come together to make a difference. She finds deep fulfillment in connecting donors to funding opportunities that resonate with their personal values, channeling her passion for community-building and philanthropy to create meaningful connections between donors and 412 Food Rescue’s mission. Jen is passionate about helping donors see how their contributions can create lasting, tangible change—empowering them to play an active role in building a better, more sustainable future.

With over 10 years of experience, Jen began her career as an AmeriCorps member and has since worked in fundraising and donor relations at both nonprofit organizations and universities. She is proud to be part of an organization that creatively blends food security, technology, and environmentalism, addressing critical issues in Pittsburgh and beyond. 

Outside of work, Jen enjoys spending time outdoors with her six pets, traveling to new places, and playing the piano. As a new resident of Pittsburgh, she’s excited to explore the city and looks forward to connecting with the community both personally and professionally.

Have questions about leaving a legacy, making a tax-smart donation, or exploring planned giving opportunities? Jen is here to help! Reach out to her at jeni@412foodrescue.org or (217) 255-3741.

Blanca Ruiz brings over 8 years of nonprofit development experience to 412 Food Rescue, specializing in donor engagement, stewardship, and fundraising strategy. She is deeply committed to building meaningful, long-term relationships with donors and ensuring their contributions align with their values, ultimately empowering them to be part of transformative change.

Blanca most recently served as Development Manager at Hello Neighbor, where she led multi-channel fundraising campaigns, increased donor retention, and expanded individual giving programs. Known for her collaborative spirit and proactive approach, she excels in data-driven strategy and donor-focused communications that foster strong, ongoing relationships.

As Individual Giving Manager, Blanca will focus on cultivating and stewarding relationships with individual donors, helping them make a lasting impact on food access, sustainability, and reducing food waste. Her passion for connecting people to purpose-driven work aligns perfectly with 412 Food Rescue’s mission and vision for the future.

When Blanca isn’t working to expand 412 Food Rescue’s donor community, you’ll find her enjoying the outdoors, exploring new places, and spending time with friends and family.

Have questions about making a donation, adjusting your monthly gift, or signing up to become a fundraiser for 412 Food Rescue? Reach out to Blanca at blancamruiz@412foodrescue.org.