Best wishes to Maria and welcome Paul

The Shelter announces the well-deserved retirement of Options Manager Maria McCormick, who has served our resale store for over 20 years.

A native of the Philippines, Maria moved to Naples in 1992. She came to Options as a volunteer in 1997 and became an employee that same year. During her time with Options, Maria has led the staff, volunteers and facility through several renovations and improvements, most recently a new name and branding as well as several physical upgrades to the store.
She is a role model to the store’s 175 volunteer and paid staff.

“Maria is an outstanding individual and has been an exemplary manager of the Options team,” says Shelter Executive Director Linda Oberhaus. “While we are sad that she will be leaving our family, we are also happy and excited that she will have more time to spend with her own family.”

With a degree in geodetic engineering, it is no surprise that Maria loves hiking, especially along the Appalachian Trail with her husband Bill and her dog Buddy. With her retirement, she hopes to enjoy more time and adventures with both of them. Maria’s last day will be Friday, May 26, and we wish her good health and much fun in her travels.

The Shelter is are also excited to announce that, as of May 1, Paul Kallenberg will serve as our new general manager at Options. Paul started his retail career in 1995 as a sales associate in women’s shoes for Barneys New York. He comes to Options with extensive managerial background at Burberry LTD and Saks Fifth Avenue at Waterside Shops. He has a demonstrated passion for talent development and building a team atmosphere.

Paul moved from New York to Naples with his wife and daughter in 2004. He is an active member of the Naples community and was introduced to The Shelter for Abused Women & Children in 2015. He currently serves on the GADV Tailgate Committee.

“Paul has already demonstrated his support for The Shelter through his volunteer efforts and we are pleased that he will be joining us full-time,” Linda says. “His extensive background in retail and management will be of great benefit as Options moves into the future.”