Susan Johnston is founder and executive director at Central Furniture Rescue. Leaning on her 25-plus years of experience in operations and project management, Susan took an idea, implemented it, and now is focused on scaling this program with the goal of helping as many individuals and families as possible turn “places to live” into homes.
After a career in corporate training and project management, Jessi sought work with deeper meaning and local impact. Her commitment to supporting marginalized communities led her to Central Furniture Rescue (CFR), where she found the perfect fit. Prior to joining CFR, Jessi worked with Willis Dady’s Employment Services, helping connect workers to opportunities. Drawn to CFR’s mission, she now applies her skills in project management to make a difference in the nonprofit sector. Jessi is passionate about working alongside dedicated volunteers to transform living spaces for those in need, turning houses into homes.
Tyler Kuehl, with his extensive experience in both the banking industry and his dedicated role as treasurer on the board of Central Furniture Rescue, has made a significant impact on the community. Currently, he serves as the Retail Operations Specialist at Cedar Rapids Bank and Trust, where he leverages his expertise to contribute to the success of the bank. His dual roles exemplify his commitment to the community, as he actively supports the financial operations of Central Furniture Rescue. Tyler joined the board in 2020.
Stacie Wallingford is the Fair Lending Officer/Consumer Loan Underwriting Lead at Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust Company and has been with the company since 2014. She believes in the importance making an impact on our community and after doing a work leadership project with CFR, she discovered how important the mission of CFR is in our community and is excited to help contribute to that mission. In her free time, she enjoys camping, kayaking, family vacations and volunteering in various organizations with her husband and three grown daughters.
Jill Hartke has over 13 years of experience in the real estate industry and currently serves as a board member at Central Furniture Rescue. As the chair of the Cedar Rapids Area Association of Realtors Public Relations Committee and a past board member of the Cedar Rapids Area Association of Realtors, Jill Hartke is deeply involved in shaping the local real estate landscape. Beyond their professional commitments, Jill Hartke is dedicated to giving back to the community, actively volunteering with numerous nonprofits across the metro area.
Megan is a dedicated higher education professional, currently working in Corporate Training at Kirkwood Community College. She is passionate about helping individuals and organizations reach their full potential through education and professional development. In addition to serving on the board of Central Furniture Rescue, Megan is actively involved in her community, volunteering with Cedar Rapids Kiwanis, and participating in her church. When she’s not working or volunteering, Megan enjoys spending time with her family and friends. Megan joined the board in 2024.
Danielle Rodriguez has several years of experience working in the non-profit community in Cedar Rapids. She focuses her interest and attention, to secure safe and stable housing for members in our community. Danielle believes, if a person has a home, they can focus on their barriers and health to become an active member in our communities. Danielle is taking her years of experience, to uplift the agency To The Rescue, as the Assistant of Human Services with a focus on housing.
New to the Central Furniture Rescue board in 2024, Shelby Breberg is a Licensed Social Worker with Unity Point St. Luke’s Hospital. She is also an Internationally Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor, with over 15 years of experience in the field of human services. Shelby is passionate about serving the community and assisting people with gaining access to services and resources. At home, Shelby enjoys spending time with her husband and two children, playing UNO and taking care of their many houseplants.
