Paul Kares names Fran Simeone director of development

Paul Kares recently announced Fran Simeone as its new director of development.

Simeone was previously an advisor for the Delaware-based nonprofit founded by musician/chef Paul Cullen and Jim Rivette to help young culinary and performing artists achieve their goals.

Paul Kares grants have gone toward band travel expenses, music camp tuition, culinary trip expenses, college hospitality programs and music schools.

In his new position, Simeone will handle all donor outreach efforts, including sponsorships for the Room at Cedar Grove, and special community projects such as the Concert for the Kids event and the annual Paul Kares Golf Tournament.

“Fran has an exceptional ability to make things happen in our state,” Rivette said. “He’s a lifelong Delawarean with amazing connections and a passion for helping people.”

Simeone grew up in Wilmington, and his family summered in Oak Orchard. As a teen, he worked at the legendary Barn Door in downtown Wilmington and learned to cook from his mother and aunt.

“I cherish the knowledge I gained from my mom, and I cook nearly every night,” said Simeone, who has four children, two with his wife Debbie.

Simeone, who works for Seiberlich Trane, is a recognized leader in the energy services business. He also teaches others to be leaders.

He co-founded Ghost Players, a youth basketball association comprising at-risk and middle-class kids. He also coached girls’ basketball at Wilmington Friends School, Archmere Academy and Delaware Military Academy.

Simeone, who now lives in Millsboro, is a coach at Mulligan’s Pointe, where he introduces kids to golf. “Along with Gale Logullo, we were the First Tee organization in Sussex County and the first to bring in the Boys & Girls Clubs of Dagsboro and Georgetown for a golf program,” he said.

Simeone gets satisfaction from watching young people succeed, whether they want to perfect their golf swing or perform on stage.

Paul Kares makes grants to individuals, groups and programs. The organization has donated to the Cape Henlopen High School Jazz Band and Delaware Technical Community College’s hospitality program.

Individuals qualified to apply for grants are Delmarva-area students interested in music, the culinary arts and related fields. Students, parents and grandparents, public and private school programs, and learning camps can apply.

For more information, go to paulkaresde.org.