Meet The Team
Our Leadership team has been involved with Multiply The HARVEST since the charity’s inception, driving for change in Togo. We have combined our commitment, our dreams, our desires and responsibility to help the poor and vulnerable of Togo as an organization that lives out the model of cooperative sharing for the benefit of the villagers of Togo.
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Mary Cade is currently retired from Lakeview Hospital, having served as a Registered Nurse for 32 years. She possesses extensive nursing experience in various areas, including Intensive Care, Bone Marrow Transplant, Oncology, Pediatrics, and Home Health Care.
In addition to her clinical work, Mary has dedicated her time to Medical Mission work, participating in volunteer opportunities with organizations such as VOICA, VIMM, Mercy Ships, Red Cross, and the University of Miami Medical Missions. Her international missions have taken her to Togo, Africa, Haiti, and Viet Nam. Currently, Mary volunteers for the Sisters of St. Peter Claver in North St. Paul, MN.
Beyond her professional and volunteer commitments, Mary finds joy in spending time with her son, daughter, and three grandchildren. Her interests include quilting and crafts, photography, as well as traveling and hiking. -
Andrew, a seasoned Reconstructive Surgeon with two decades of dedicated service in the Duluth, MN area, expertly attended to individuals grappling with complex/chronic wounds, burns, and major reconstruction challenges. His illustrious career paved the way for a fulfilling retirement, during which he pursued his passion for wood carving and woodworking. Venturing to the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship in Maine, he immersed himself in 9 months of intensive instruction, followed by an additional 9 months of fellowship, and a subsequent 9-month stint as an assistant.
Andrew has seamlessly transitioned into a new role as the assistant manager at a bakery within a prominent grocery store in Maine. Beyond his professional pursuits, he finds joy in the company of his five children and grandchild, savoring the moments that life outside the operating room has to offer. -
Monica Messa is a co-founder of Multiply The H.A.R.V.E.S.T. and has served as the director of field operations in Togo, West Africa for the past ten years, collaborating on and implementing projects aimed at fostering positive change for the common good. She firmly believes in the transformative power of teamwork, seeing numerous opportunities emerge through the untapped potential in each individual.
With over 30 years of professional experience, Monica has been actively engaged with organizations spanning a wide range of fields, including outreach to the homeless, prison ministry, social outreach, justice, medical missions, pastoral ministry, and education. Her international involvement includes work in Asia with the Columban Fathers Lay Mission program and as a medical missionary with the Canossian Sisters in Togo, West Africa.
Monica places a strong emphasis on education, viewing learning as a lifelong process. She believes that teaching and sharing through personal example are among the most effective ways to empower people. Collaborating with our local liaison, Mr. Koffitche “Joseph” Gone, an adult literacy program was organized and established in November 2013. The program, which continues to thrive, offers five different levels of classes. It goes beyond addressing basic reading, writing, and second language (French) speaking skills; it serves as a platform to discuss other crucial issues such as health, the environment, and awareness of choices and their consequences. These discussions impact daily life and contribute to shaping a better future.
Monica's extensive experience and commitment to education underscore her dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those she serves. Through her leadership and collaborative efforts, Multiply The HARVEST continues to be a force for positive change in Togo, West Africa, fostering empowerment, education, and awareness. -
Koffitche "Joseph" Gone serves as a community leader, educator, and Physicians Assistant dedicated to making a positive impact in his community. With a passion for healthcare, he established his own community clinic, where he actively contributes to the well-being of those he serves.
In addition to his medical endeavors, Joseph plays a pivotal role in education as he teaches at the Literacy program, emphasizing the importance of knowledge and literacy in community development. His commitment to education extends beyond traditional classroom settings, as he engages in extensive community education initiatives.
Closely aligned with Multiply The Harvest, Joseph is deeply involved in various community projects and initiatives. Recognized as a key figure, he serves as Monica's right-hand man, showcasing his leadership and organizational skills.
Joseph's comprehensive approach to community service, combining healthcare, education, and leadership, reflects his dedication to fostering a thriving and informed community.