Jesse Fink’s Post

Last week in Chicago, ReFED was honored to receive a The James Beard Foundation Impact Award alongside an inspiring group of leaders and organizations working to build a more sustainable and equitable food system. The awards ceremony celebrated achievement and collaboration. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me. This award is really for the “Big Tent,” which couldn’t happen without the philanthropic and corporate supporters of ReFED, the multi-stakeholders working tirelessly for solutions, the incredibly talented and dedicated ReFED professional staff, and the board of directors. It was wonderful to spend time with the other honorees throughout the weekend. A big shout-out to Senator Ben Ray Luján, the team at the Jon Bon Jovi Soul Foundation, and all of the other organizations working on hunger, equity, community development, and food systems change. It was inspiring to learn from people who are making a real difference. ReFED is honored to be included among such an extraordinary and diverse group. Food waste is a challenge that requires action from all of us: consumers, businesses, restaurants, grocery retailers, and policymakers alike. Chefs play an important role as they have both a platform and the public's trust, giving them the ability to raise awareness about food waste AND also to inspire meaningful action. Through their creativity, leadership, and influence, chefs inspire people to see food differently and become part of the solution. We are grateful to the James Beard Foundation for recognizing this work and to everyone who has helped advance the food waste movement over the past decade. #JamesBeardAwards #ReFED #FoodWaste