Phil and Rita Schounard started Crisis Cafe out of a passion for food and a deep desire to serve others. They wanted to combine these two passions and in turn bring the love and hope of Christ to their community. Phil’s idea for Crisis Cafe was born on a mission trip while cooking meals for a team of volunteers. He developed the idea along with Rita, and they officially incorporated and filed for non-profit status in 2018. God has given each of them very special gifts that enhance this ministry to the fullest. While Phil handles a large share of the cooking responsibilities, Rita keeps Crisis Cafe on track and organized. Even though their gifts are unique, they each have a heart for strong relationships with members of their community, especially those in need or suffering. The ultimate goal of Crisis Cafe is to reach those in crisis with the redemptive story of Jesus Christ.
…..each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in various forms….
I Peter 5:10
Rita was born in Iowa, but her youth and adult life have been spent in Wisconsin. She came to know the Lord at a young age and grew up serving in her family ministry. She graduated from Bob Jones University with a degree in Interior Design and worked in the creative realm for 25 years. Rita also owned and operated a coffee shop where she met Phil in 2000. In her down time, she loves to kayak with the family dog, coach basketball at NEW Lutheran High School, catch up with friends and watch college football.
Phil grew up in Green Bay, graduating from Ashwaubenon High School in 1980. After a few different service jobs, he found himself in the plastics industry after inventing two products that are now used all over the world. He sold his plastics business in 2010 and now works in culinary sales. His love for cooking developed over the years and always wanted to somehow use this talent for God. In his spare time, he enjoys kayaking, baking and grilling for friends.
Together
Phil and Rita were married in 2008 and have 5 kids and 2 grandchildren. They attend Spring Lake Church in Green Bay and serve as greeters and lead crisis response trips with Reach Global Crisis Response. They always make time for family taco nights with all the kids, watching the Packers, and kayaking in Door County.