Brighter Bites Announces Change to Board Leadership and Release of Fiscal Year Transition Report; Lisa Helfman, Dr. Shreela Sharma, and Rich Dachman Comment


Wed. October 21st, 2026 - by ANUK Staff

HOUSTON, TX - Brighter Bites announces a leadership transition on its Board of Directors as founder Lisa Helfman steps down as Board Chair, and co-founder Dr. Shreela Sharma assumes the role. The transition marks a new chapter for the organization, reinforcing its vision and deepening its commitment to growth and meaningful impact. Lisa will continue to remain actively involved with the organization, hold a seat on the board, and support its mission.

Lisa Helfman, Founder, Brighter Bites

“It has been an honor to serve as board chair for the past 14 years. 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,” said Lisa Helfman in the recent release.

Brighter Bites announces a leadership transition on its Board of Directors as founder Lisa Helfman steps down as Board Chair, and co-founder Dr. Shreela Sharma assumes the role

Dr. Shreela Sharma, who helped establish Brighter Bites in 2012 alongside Lisa Helfman, brings a deep understanding of the organization’s mission, programs, and community to the Board Chair role.

Dr. Shreela Sharma, Co-Founder, and Board Chair, Brighter Bites

“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. 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,” said Dr. Shreela Sharma.

Fiscal Year Transition Report Highlights New Fiscal Year

Alongside the leadership transition, Brighter Bites is pleased to release 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.

Alongside the leadership transition, Brighter Bites is pleased to release 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.

Rich Dachman, Chief Executive Officer, Brighter Bites

“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,” said Rich Dachman, CEO.

The release of the Fiscal Year Transition Report and Board leadership transition represent two important steps in Brighter Bites’ ongoing growth, while reinforcing the organization’s commitment to transparency, continuity, and long-term impact.

To view the Fiscal Year Transition Report, visit www.brighterbites.org/our-impact.


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Brighter Bites

Brighter Bites is a nonprofit that delivers fresh fruits and vegetables directly into families’ hands, while teaching…