As a complementary philanthropic partner of the new International Fresh Produce Association, the Foundation for Fresh Produce will be launched with a vision to grow a healthier world through increased access to fresh fruits and vegetables.
It was previously announced that Wegman’s Vice President of Produce & Floral Merchandising Martha Hilton would serve as Chair of the Foundation and on the Executive Committee of the association.
“Our industry is positioned to provide solutions to some of the world’s greatest challenges surrounding nutrition and hunger,” said Hilton. “The new foundation will focus on developing, nurturing and leveraging strong relationships and strategic partnerships with our industry members and key organizations to improve access to fresh fruit and vegetables.”
The current foundations, United Fresh Start Foundation and the Center for Growing Talent will not continue under the new association, however, the work of each organization will carry through to the new association and foundation.
This includes the United Fresh Start Foundation’s work in nutrition policy and community outreach to drive access for fresh produce.
Center for Growing Talent’s dedication to providing solutions to attract and develop industry talent will be a primary focus of the new association’s work. Members and volunteer leaders will continue to play a critical role in talent strategies and programming and interested members will have the opportunity to serve on the new Talent Advisory Committee; Diversity Equity and Inclusion Committee; and Women’s Sub-Committee.
The new Foundation for Fresh Produce will issue a call for volunteers to serve on the Foundation’s Board of Directors.
Those interested should check the International Fresh Produce Association’s website for more information about how to become an association volunteer.
The International Fresh Produce Association (IFPA) is the largest and most diverse international association serving the entire fresh produce and floral supply chain and the only to seamlessly integrate world-facing advocacy and industry-facing support. We exist to bring the industry together to create a vibrant future for all. We grow our member’s prosperity by conducting advocacy; connecting people and ideas; and offering guidance that allows us all to take action with purpose and confidence.
While IFPA is built on the legacy of United Fresh and Produce Marketing Association, it is not just a combination. It is transformational. Recognizing the industry required an even more powerful and unified voice, the leaders of the former United Fresh and Produce Marketing Association chose not to merge, but rather to create an entirely new organization to supersede their organizations, effective January 1, 2022.
