Meet Our Staff

Cherrelle Gardner

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Cherrelle joined Co-op Dayton in 2020 to help build the just economy that we need and deserve in Dayton, Ohio. Originally from Columbus, Cherrelle moved here to study as an undergraduate at the University of Dayton and has since made Dayton her home. She earned her Master’s Degree in Education at Wright State University and worked in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at local universities. Cherrelle came to Co-op Dayton as a member-owner of the Gem City Market cooperative, and a facilitator and leader of other co-op projects, including a trucking co-op, fitness co-op, and real estate investment cooperative.

Kacey Trueblood

OPERATIONS MANAGER

Kacey Trueblood is a Dayton native and first-generation farmer with dedication deeply rooted in fostering community well-being, including support for food access and security, education, and mental health. She joined Co-Op Dayton as co-founder and farm manager of NuSol Farms, a collaborative farm in West Dayton, with a professional background in administration and operations. Her philosophy centers on advocating for regenerative practices that nurture the land and our community, aiming to establish shared success and sustainable growth in Dayton. Kacey strives to help create an equitable and just economy alongside a thriving ecosystem, prioritizing both human well-being and environmental health in the pursuit of overall prosperity.

kourtney Terry

PROGRAM MANAGER

Kourtney Terry is a passionate entrepreneur, community advocate, and devoted wife and mother. She is the founder of Taste T Love Baby Food, Ohio’s only baby food preparation company, which provides fresh, organic meals to childcare centers while addressing food disparities in underserved communities. In addition to running her business, Kourtney serves as a Program Manager at Co-op Dayton, where she supports the growth of cooperative businesses and drives initiatives centered on economic justice and community ownership.

With an MBA and a track record of award-winning leadership—including the Spark Award and Resiliency Award—Kourtney is committed to building sustainable solutions that uplift families, support women- and minority-owned businesses, and foster thriving local economies. Her work is deeply rooted in empathy, collaboration, and a vision for generational impact. Whether she’s leading a new community project, coaching entrepreneurs, or cheering on her kids at home, Kourtney brings heart, purpose, and strategy to everything she does.