Thanks for Joining Us for the 5th Annual Trust Gathering

This day-long, hybrid event inspired and connected leaders in the sustainable food and agriculture community.  

 

Attendees heard from Daniella Velazquez de Leon, Organics Unlimited. 

Daniella is at the forefront of promoting socially responsible practices in the banana industry and providing the highest quality organic bananas and tropical fruit. She shared her insights, experiences, and the impactful work at Organics Unlimited, including their GROW program, which has provided over $2 million in services to people and families in banana-growing communities. When you buy a banana from OGC, you’re contributing to this program! 

Attendees participated in an Organic Advocacy and Accomplishment in Oregon workshop led by Chris Schreiner, Executive Director at Oregon Tilth and David Lively, SFAPPT Trust Protector Committee, Oregon Organic Coalition leadership council and Organic Trade Association board member 

Chris brought his expertise in organic agriculture and certification and his unwavering dedication to supporting farmers. David has been involved in the organic agricultural movement and trade since 1976 as a gardener, farmer, activist and founder of OGC.  

 
 

Guests also met Trust Protector Committee candidates and listened to progress updates from the Trust and Organically Grown Company leadership.

If you missed the gathering, check back for our event recap to come around mid-November.

 

2023 TPC Election

Important Election Dates: 

  • 10/19/23 – Last day to apply to be a Qualified Stakeholder and be able to vote in the TPC election 

    • You must be a Qualified Stakeholder to vote in TPC elections. Click this link to learn more and apply. 

  • 10/30/23 – Election opens 

  • 11/10/23 – Election closes 

  • 11/16/23 – Results announced!  

We have two wonderful candidates running for reelection to the TPC. Learn more about them below. 

George Siemon  

George is a national pioneer in the organic food movement. He started farming organically in 1977 and was a trailblazer in organic livestock production. He was a founder and CEO of CROPP Cooperative/Organic Valley for 30 years. He has been very active in the evolution of Trust ownership for business structures. Siemon believes that “the sustainability movement must also address the negative sides of ownership.” 

Read George’s full candidate statement here.  

 

Joe Rogoff

Joe spent his career as a natural and organic grocer, working in and leading co-ops, small independents, local chains, and ultimately Whole Foods Market. He devotes his time to working with non-profits and social enterprises that further the causes of food access, food as medicine, social justice, organics and sustainability and is particularly excited to be part of an alternative steward-ownership movement. 

Read Joe’s full candidate statement here.