President and Founder of Davenport Community Development Corporation 501C3

His mission is to offer training strategies and develop platforms that assist corporations and community leaders in working together to create opportunities for individuals to advance their marketable skills for success in the job market.

David worked for Ford Motor Company for thirty years, completing his last 6 years in Quality Control. He has a Bachelor of Arts degree with a minor in Non-Profit Management from North Park University. His experience stems from serving on several nonprofit boards, including the Salvation of Army Kroc Center Chicago as the Community Liaison. It was there that he introduced the Family Center programs to churches, organizations, and community groups. All of these efforts aided in boosting membership and enhancing the centers presence in the adjacent communities.

Mr. Davenport is also a volunteer Chaplain with the Department of Correction and Juvenile Detention Center in Chicago. He is an engaging presenter and counsels men and women in practical life lessons. Additional endeavors of his include: serving with the Washington Heights Chamber of Commerce, working in city procurement workshops, job fair coordination with major employers in the community, and serving as a community activist in curtailing crime in his community.

Co-Founder and Director of Feeding the Future

Jasmine Davenport-Murray REHS (Registered Environmental Health Specialist), is an expert with over 20 years experience in the food safety industry. She is the Founder of ARF Food Safety Consulting Group, which specializes in Food Safety Consulting, Inspections, Litigation services and Training. Additionally, Mrs. Murray is a Certified Food Sanitation Trainer with Servsafe and Chicago/Illinois Health.

With experience in the public and private sectors, Mrs. Murray provides advice and guidance on topics including: regulatory compliance, quality systems management, supply chain, food allergen safety, health and wellness, business strategy, and food product development. Her previous work experience includes: National Food Safety Director with Aramark Refreshment Services, Food Service Operations Manager with Sodexo Food Services, Food Safety Auditor with NSF International and Environmental Health Specialist with the Virginia Beach Dept. of Public Health. She graduated and received her Bachelors of Science degree in Biology Pre-Med from the elite Hampton University.

Co-Founder and Culinary Expert

Fershawnda Green, Founder and President of Poppin Plates Culinary Incubator, with two decades of food service experience, has applied her knowledge in a way to help emerging entrepreneurs like herself successfully succeed in the food service industry. Her previous work experience inlcude: a chef's assistant, a chef on cruise lines, and other food service establishments.

Ms. Green has a love for learning. After learning Kitchen Back of the House knowledge, she enhanced her breadth by learning Front of the House knowledge which enabled her to manage various food service brands throughout the city of Chicago.

In 2018, Ms. Green started a Food & Beverage consultancy firm that focuses on emerging entrepreneurs looking to break into the Food and Beverage industry. After seeing all the struggles her clients were facing, she took her business to the next level by opening a Culinary Incubator, Poppin Plates in Park Forest, IL. Poppin Plates has since opened its doors to over twenty-five new start-up food service brands.