Our Team

Founder & Executive Director – Rochelle Gamauf

Rochelle Gamauf, a devoted Waukesha resident for over 27 years, is the visionary behind Friends with Food—a compassionate nonprofit dedicated to delivering essential groceries and supplies to families navigating hardship. Her journey into community service was sparked in March 2020, amidst the global pandemic, when she personally prepared and delivered homemade spaghetti to 10 local families. This heartfelt act marked the inception of Friends with Food, reflecting Rochelle’s unwavering commitment to uplifting her community with empathy and dignity.

Before founding Friends with Food, Rochelle built a dynamic career as a Real Estate Broker and entrepreneur, successfully launching and managing several businesses from the ground up. Her entrepreneurial spirit and leadership acumen have been instrumental in shaping the organization’s mission and expanding its reach.

Rochelle’s inspiring leadership has garnered significant recognition. In 2020, she was honored as the Greater Milwaukee Association of Realtors’ Realtor of the Year for her outstanding contributions to the community. Further amplifying her impact, she shared her story of resilience and achievement as a speaker at the Women’s Strong Conference in February 2022, motivating countless individuals with her journey.

Beyond her professional endeavors, Rochelle cherishes her family life. She has been married for 29 years to her husband, Jim, who also serves on the board of Friends with Food. Together, they have three adult children who frequently volunteer at the pantry, embodying the family’s collective dedication to service. Their two lively dogs, Henry and Chad, add joy and energy to their household. In her leisure time, Rochelle finds rejuvenation in exploring new destinations, embarking on nature walks, and engaging in outdoor activities that fuel her passion for community enrichment.

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Volunteer Coordinator –Bobbi Jo

Bobbi Jo became an essential member of the Friends with Food volunteer team in the fall of 2022. Growing up in the West Allis/New Berlin area, she attended high school with Rochelle, and their enduring friendship laid the foundation for her involvement. Even during her 17-year residence out west, Bobbi Jo remained inspired by Rochelle’s impactful work, following the organization’s progress through social media. Upon returning to Wisconsin in 2022, she eagerly reconnected with Rochelle, driven by a deep desire to contribute to the mission of Friends with Food.

Since joining the team, Bobbi Jo has infused her energy and passion into various roles, including assisting at the Check-In desk, supporting event planning and program committees, and stepping in wherever needed in the pantry. Her unwavering commitment and adaptability have made her a cherished volunteer and a driving force within the organization.

Outside of her volunteer work, Bobbi Jo and her husband are proud parents of three grown children, with their youngest recently graduating from high school. Their home is filled with love, shared with three affectionate dogs and a charismatic cat. Balancing a dynamic career in Human Resources, Bobbi Jo treasures quality time with her family, friends, and beloved pets. In her downtime, she finds joy in watching DIY shows and embracing the comforts of home life.

Operations Manager – Jamie Hardt

Jamie Hardt, a proud Wisconsin native, has firmly established her roots in Oconomowoc, where she resides with her husband, Aaron, and their daughter, Lorelei. After nearly two decades of marriage, Jamie transitioned from a successful corporate career to a dynamic life that harmoniously balances family, professional endeavors, and community service.

A series of personal challenges led Jamie to Friends with Food, initially as a patron seeking support. The warm embrace and unwavering encouragement she received from the community ignited a profound desire to give back. Embracing this newfound purpose, Jamie became a dedicated volunteer, and her exceptional commitment and organizational prowess soon earned her the pivotal role of Operations Manager. In this capacity, she ensures the seamless functioning of the pantry, embodying the organization’s mission to provide compassionate assistance to those in need.

Jamie’s dedication to service extends beyond the pantry walls. She contributes to the Oconomowoc School District as a substitute teacher and shares her passion for health and wellness by instructing cycling and fitness classes at various health clubs in the Lake Country area. Her multifaceted involvement in the community underscores her unwavering commitment to making a positive impact.

At home, Jamie finds joy in the simple pleasures of life. She delights in cooking, baking, and the art of couponing, often indulging in the magic of all things Disney. Her daughter, Lorelei, inspired by her mother’s altruism, volunteers alongside her whenever possible, fostering a family tradition of service and empathy.

Our Purpose

Dedicated to Feeding the Future

Our purpose is to respond the needs in our community by providing food and supplies during a time of need.