Stephen Popper is the Founder, President, and Chief Executive Officer of Meals of Hope, a nonprofit organization dedicated to alleviating hunger through hands-on community engagement. Since its founding in 2007, Meals of Hope has grown into a nationally recognized organization, distributing more than 115 million meals across the United States and operating the largest network of food pantries in Florida.
Through its 15 food pantries in Collier and Lee counties and multiple out-of-school nutrition programs, Meals of Hope provides weekly food assistance to thousands of families and supports children through school-year and weekend feeding initiatives. Commissioner Popper’s leadership has focused on operational efficiency, community partnerships, and responsible stewardship of resources.
Commissioner Popper earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance, with a minor in Marketing, from Babson College. Prior to founding Meals of Hope, he was a partner in a wholesale lumber company, where he managed international sourcing of forest products from Europe, South America, and Asia.
A Rotarian for 28 years, Commissioner Popper has served in numerous leadership roles and has been recognized with the Four Avenues of Service Citation and Rotarian of the Year honors. He has also served in leadership and board roles with several nonprofit and civic organizations, including St. Monica’s Episcopal Church, the Harry Chapin Food Bank, Taste of Immokalee, and the Babson College Alumni Association. He is a graduate of Leadership Collier, Class of 2018.
A North Naples resident since 1994, Commissioner Popper has served as a Fire Commissioner since October 2025. He is committed to fiscal responsibility while ensuring the North Collier Fire Control and Rescue District continues to operate as one of Florida’s premier fire districts.