Vermont Business Magazine In the past few months, Hunger Free Vermont has hired four key staff members, completing its 15-person team. Ranging in experience from development to communications, these individuals are going to be critical players for the statewide nonprofit in its next period of anti-hunger education and advocacy.
“As Vermont’s statewide nonprofit committed to ending the injustice of hunger for everyone in Vermont through coalition-building, public education, training, advocacy and community engagement, Hunger Free Vermont is nothing but our people,” Executive Director Anore Horton said. “I could not be more proud to introduce Vermonters to these four extraordinary new staff members, who have already thrown themselves into the work of creating true and permanent food security for all with grace, determination and joy.”
Josie Leavitt (above) joined Hunger Free Vermont in October 2025 as its new Director of Development. She is responsible for ensuring that the nonprofit’s essential anti-hunger work is fully funded. She has more than 20 years of not-for-profit and entrepreneurial experience, including serving in interim Executive and Development Director roles at the Vermont Bar Foundation and the Pride Center during critical times for their growth. Most recently, Josie served Vermont as State Representative for the Grand Isle-Chittenden district.
Sophie Springer has been with Hunger Free Vermont since October 2025 when she joined as its 3SquaresVT (SNAP) Specialist. She facilitates 3SquaresVT education and training initiatives, providing opportunities to train community-based and statewide organizations on both program policy and application assistance best practices. Sophie moved to Vermont in 2022 to pursue her master's degree, graduating from the Food Systems program at the University of Vermont in 2024. Since moving to the state, Sophie has become deeply involved in local food access and education, both in her professional and personal life.
Natalie Williams, the new Deputy Director of Communications, joined Hunger Free Vermont in December 2025. She oversees the communications strategy to support the organization’s program, advocacy, fundraising and outreach work. Natalie also manages the Hunger Free Vermont website, social media accounts, newsletters and other external communications. Prior to Hunger Free Vermont, she spent her career in journalism, most recently as a senior editor at VTDigger.
Vicky Castillo came to Hunger Free Vermont in October 2025 as the Operations & Program Support Specialist. She plays a central role in maintaining the behind-the-scenes operations that make Hunger Free Vermont’s innovative work to end hunger for everyone possible, making her a vital member of the administration, finance and human resources team. Vicky graduated from Saint Michael’s College in 2020 with a bachelor’s degree in biology and minors in Spanish and anthropology. She is passionate about showing up for social justice, advocating for equity and honoring the inherent dignity of every person.
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