(Community Matters) Faruz Benyousef, Stephen Strauss, Vince Ashwell and I met about the Sustainable Food Center and the fantastic work they are doing – including high yielding strategy on how to leverage resources & programs to improve the health of our community and the availability of local, nutritious food. Lots of folks don’t know they run the farmer’s markets – I didn’t know they ran satellite farmer’s markets in lower income neighborhoods where produce is sold at reduced costs. They also run programs to educate at risk populations in healthier eating lifestyles, run community gardens and bring healthier food to some school cafeterias (I continually hear we’d be appalled to know what we serve children in most school cafeterias).
I don’t understand why they and Wheatsville Co-op aren’t already much closer collaborating partners – same missions and many of the same objectives. Ronda Rutledge, her staff, board and supporters have come a long long way in their thinking and vision. Loved being given a preview or their future.
Wish Steven and I could attend the Farm to Plate event on May 6 but he’s traveling and I’m already committed. hmm, wondering if I can rearrange my commitment. This event too good to miss.
Community Matters 
Eugene – It was terrific to be in your company picking your brain and seeing all the intersections of ideas re: partnerships SFC must explore with individuals who share a passion for the mission/vision and other orgs in the social and business sector. You’re a gem!
Sorry to have missed you last week, Eugene. Thanks for your lovely comments about SFC, and for serving so astutely on our Advisory Council! We truly value your input.
I’m happy to report that Wheatsville Coop is our premiere sponsor of Farm to Plate as well as the Austin Farmers’ Market. We consider them a solid partner and hope to work together on joint efforts for years to come. Thanks for making that connection!
My best to you and Steven – hope we see you on May 6th 😉