SALINAS, CA - If there’s one thing that the produce industry as a whole can agree on, it’s that raising young people into food-literate, proactive individuals is the best chance we have to make the world a better place. That’s why industry leaders nationwide are throwing their efforts into organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. On October 29, members of the produce industry will gather in Corral de Tierra, California, to raise funds for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County Youth of the Year event, which represents a comprehensive leadership development program that emphasizes communication, goal-setting, and teamwork—leading to Career and College Readiness (CCR).
“Our youth are encouraged to submit applications for the award and selection is based on their Club involvement, their passion for education, and the role they have served for our other youth,” said Miranda Jackson, Director of Development. “We prepare the next generation to look at a wide range of jobs and careers that include the fresh produce industry, like marketing, sales, engineering, design, food styling, logistics, or management—ensuring that young people can see all possibilities and limitless opportunities in the local produce industry that is not only fieldwork.”
Contributors like Taylor Farms and Tanimura Family Foundation, who made extremely generous donations to the newest Salinas teen center, and Vic Smith, who was honored at last year’s event, are major donors to the organization’s CCR program, as well as many other fresh produce growers. These companies also contribute by helping the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County serve over 100,000 healthy meals a year to many food-insecure members. In addition to awarding the Youth of the Year honor, the organization also honors outstanding contributors at the event.
“This year, we will honor David and Susan Gill of Rio Farms with the 2019 President’s Award for supporting all our events and making donations that ensure future leaders in our community are educated to potentially work in the fresh produce industry. David is also Chairman of the First Tee of Monterey County, whose long-term relationship with Boys & Girls Clubs of Monterey County is also being honored and celebrated,” Miranda said. “We are also pleased to confirm that Vic Smith will be the Presenting Sponsor.”
According to Farm Bureau Monterey, out of over 600 young people ages 6-18 that the club serves daily in Salinas and Seaside, nearly 1 in 4 households rely on income related to agriculture and at least 25 percent of members are invested in the ag industry.
During the event, candidates will share stories of success and their future plans as they battle it out for the annual Youth of the Year honor. Funds generated at the event will support the organization’s CCR plan. All major sponsorships have been fulfilled, however, there are $500 sponsorship opportunities available that cover a family's attendance along with two attendee tickets. Rally alongside pillars of the industry in support of the Boys & Girls Club Youth of The Year event, and stick with us at AndNowUKnow for more inspiring news in the industry.
