What we do
Bake. Give. Repeat.
There’s nothing like a fresh hot biscuit to embrace you with comfort and fill your belly with joy. In Savannah, it’s not uncommon for a conversation about food to start with, “I remember… used to bake…and it was always the best,” because homemade baked goods are always pure comfort. Unfortunately, high-quality baked goods too often come with a luxurious price tag. We strive to bring this comfort to our community, especially for individuals experiencing uncertainty.
Our bake team crafts traditional southern breads fresh from our ovens each week that our delivery team brings to our partners for their patrons to enjoy. Our partners range from community shelters, church kitchens, educational centers, and organizations that strive to support our community through volunteer work.
Our Team
Michelle McDonald
Founder & Executive Director
Michelle is the founder, executive director and head baker for Community Oven. Community involvement has been a core value for Michelle for over twenty years working with local and international organizations ranging from homelessness, domestic violence, sexual assault victims, human trafficking, veterans, and refugee resettlement. As a certified Victim Advocate and mentor for incarcerated individuals, Michelle is passionate about lifting communities through compassion and dignity.
Favorite baked good to eat: warm yeast roll
Kip Remsburg
Director of Operations
Kip is the director of operations at Community Oven and is responsible for ensuring everything runs smoothly. As a 20+ year Army veteran, he wanted to establish roots in a community and join an organization that gives back. His most enjoyable experiences in the military were missions that helped to improve the lives of others. Kip is a certified Victim Advocate and mentor for incarcerated individuals with the goal of reducing recidivism.
Favorite baked good to eat: blueberry muffins
Tara Kirkland
Board Member
Tara is passionate about animals, gardening, food, and people. She believes that one good deed can effect change in immeasurable ways. Respect, kindness and humor can go a long way.
Favorite baked good to eat: chocolate croissant
Becca Carne
Board Member
Becca is a User Researcher based in the Pacific Northwest who loves all things outdoors. She has a passion for travel, always seeking out new experiences and destinations. When she’s not exploring, she enjoys perfecting her skills as an amateur bagel baker. Whether hiking through nature or experimenting with new recipes, Becca leads with curiosity and empathy.
Favorite baked good to eat: everything bagel (savory) blueberry muffin (sweet)
Heyward Guess Pearson III
Board Member
Heyward equally enjoys hikes in the woods and throwing strikes down lanes. Some of his best times are spent in the kitchen listening to music while cooking dinner. He is passionate about helping those in need – both of the 2 legged and 4 legged variety.
Favorite baked good to eat: black and white cookie