Memberships
We are proud sponsors and members of the following Vermont based non-profits
Vermont Farm to Plate
Vermont Farm to Plate is a network that encompasses farms, food, production businesses, specialty food producers, educational institutions, nonprofit organizations, capital providers, and government. The Farm to Plate Network is responsible for collectively implementing the 15 Strategic Goals of Vermont’s 2021-20230 food system plan.
The Vermont First program uses Vermont Farm to Plate’s Strategic Plan as a road map to implement local spending strategies in our own program.
Vermont First is a Maple Level sponsor of the Vermont Farm to Plate Network.
Vermont Fresh Network
Vermont Fresh Network (VFN) is a non-profit organization founded in 1996 with the mission of advancing relationships among farmers, chefs, and consumers to grow markets and eat more locally grown food.
In fiscal year 2023 our accounts at UVM and Dealer.com were members of VFN (meeting the minimum of 10% local food spend) and Gold Barn Honorees (25% local food or over $350,000 in local food spend).
Sodexo has supported the VFN Annual Forum Dinner at Shelburne Farms for many years. In 2024, we provided samples of Ecobean’s Yerba Mate beverages and Executive Chef Dan Miele of UVM Dining, competed in the Best Bites Competition with a crispy polenta cake topped with a whipped herb chevre and heirloom tomato salad.
Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility
Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility (VBSR) is a statewide, nonprofit business association with a mission to leverage the power of businesses for positive social and environmental impact.
Vermont First is a Gold Member Sponsor of VBSR and recently sponsored their Sustainability, Fair Wages, & Supply Chain in the Food/Beverage Industry session.