The Mission
Our mission is to ensure that every infant has access to essential nutrition during times of crisis. We provide emergency formula support to low‑income families through referrals from qualified professionals addressing food insecurity. We are committed to offering compassionate, reliable, and ongoing assistance that strengthens families, supports child well‑being, and uplifts communities facing hardship.
The Board of Directors
Donny Thornton
President & CEO
Donny Thornton is the founder of Nourishing Every Small Tummy, Inc. (NEST), an Ashtabula-based nonprofit that helps families keep their infants fed and thriving when finances are tight or formula access is uncertain. Drawing on years of experience in the nonprofit sector, Donny works directly with case managers, healthcare partners, and community organizations to ensure that families in crisis can quickly and respectfully receive the infant formula support they need.
At NEST, Donny focuses on building practical, secure systems for intake, referrals, and inventory so every can of formula is tracked and every family’s story is honored. Committed to equity and dignity, Donny believes no caregiver should have to choose between meeting basic needs and feeding their baby—and NEST exists to make sure they don’t have to.
William (Bill) Niemi
Vice President
William (Bill) Niemi is a retired CPA that has had over 40 years of experience in business, accounting
and human resources. His business experience includes financial services, advertising, consulting and
non-profits. He has earned degrees from Kent State (Associate in Accounting Technology), Lake Erie
College (BBA- Accounting) and Cleveland State University (MBA- Human Resources and Labor
Relations).
Currently, Niemi serves as Treasurer of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, Our Lady of Peace Conference.
In addition he currently serves on the Remote Area Medical (RAM) Clinic host committee. He is also
active in the Ashtabula / Harbor / Lakeside Alumni Association. He formerly served on the Ashtabula
Area City School Board of Education and the ATECH Board of Education.
Niemi resides in Perry, Ohio with his wife, Susan.
Sherlyn Paterson
Treasurer
Sherlyn Paterson is a finance professional with experience in financial operations, focusing on account reconciliation. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Case Western Reserve University and is in the process of earning her MBA. She is passionate about using her analytical skills and strategic mindset to help organizations operate effectively and achieve their mission.
Outside of her professional work, Sherlyn enjoys various hobbies and learning new things. She brings a thoughtful, collaborative approach to everything she does and believes that strong relationships, careful stewardship, and a commitment to service are key to creating lasting impact.