Brighter Bites has enacted a leadership transition on its board of directors as founder Lisa Helfman steps down as chair and co-founder Shreela Sharma assumes the role.
The organization says the transition marks a new chapter, reinforcing its vision and deepening its commitment to growth and meaningful impact. Helfman will continue to remain actively involved with the organization, hold a seat on the board and support its mission, according to Brighter Bites.
“It has been an honor to serve as board chair for the past 14 years,” Helfman says. “What began as a vision and a commitment to creating healthier communities has grown into a mission powered by the passion, dedication and generosity of so many. As I step down from this role, I do so with gratitude and confidence in the future of this organization. While my time as chair is coming to a close, my belief in our mission and the impact we can make together remains as strong as ever.”
Sharma, who helped establish Brighter Bites in 2012 alongside Helfman, brings a deep understanding of the organization’s mission, programs and community to the role.
“Stepping into the role of board chair is both a privilege and a profound responsibility, and I’m honored to help guide the organization into its next chapter,” Sharma says. “I’m deeply grateful for the foundation we’ve built together and excited to work alongside our dedicated board, leadership and supporters to strengthen our impact and advance the mission of creating healthier communities.”
Transition Report Highlights New Fiscal Year
Alongside the leadership transition, Brighter Bites released its Fiscal Year Transition Report, highlighting a significant organizational change: the transition to a new fiscal year that aligns with the organization’s programming and school-year calendar.
The new fiscal-year structure is designed to better reflect the rhythm of Brighter Bites’ work, providing a clearer connection between financial reporting, program delivery and the communities and students the organization serves. The Fiscal Year Transition Report documents this shift and provides stakeholders with insight into the organization’s work during this period of transition.
“This transition gives us an opportunity to more closely connect how we measure and communicate our work with the experiences of the students, families, educators and communities we serve,” says Rich Dachman, CEO.
