History & Timeline

2010

Brenda starts Bellafina as a part-time business while working as a vice president at Eastman Chemical, Kingsport, TN. Everything was made at her home and sold at farmer’s markets and outdoor concerts.

2012

After some restructuring happened at Eastman, Brenda realized she wanted to feel more of a sense of meaning and purpose. She decided to dedicate herself fulltime to grow Bellafina. Brenda went to the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone, Ca., and began the transition from chemical company executive to full-time chocolatier

2016

Bellafina moved into the current location, 123 Cherokee Street. Volunteers helped get the space painted and up to codes. Fun fact: The city allowed the police to practice drills in building before Bellafina moved in; if you look closely, you can find paintball splatter in some places.

2017

Bellafina hires their first two employees; women overcoming barriers to employment (early recovery, past incarcerations, single moms who have never worked or been out of workforce for quite some time)

2018

Brenda takes first steps toward Bellafina Chocolates officially becoming a non-profit.

2019

Abundantly Blessed Ministries (dba Bellafina Chocolates) is formed and officially recognized as a 501c3 non-profit organizations.

2020

Bellafina remains open and incorporates baking bread into products sold during first year of Covid.

2021

Jes Williams comes on as Operations Managers with intention of moving into Executive Director role after Brenda leaves.

2022

Brenda Barnicki stepped down as Executive Director to start Eden’s Vista farm and venue. Jes Williams becomes Executive Director.

Interested In Volunteering?

We could not do the work we do without our volunteers! Contact us if you are interested in learning more about volunteer opportunities. 

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