WASHINGTON, DC – It's no secret that one of my favorite aspects of this industry is the people, and the way we know how to come together and have a good time. Combining a love of produce with the beloved elegance of an industry event, The Organic Center brought these facets out emphatically at its recently held 14th Annual Benefit Dinner. The event was marked for success as it raised over $400,000 to support non-profit organic research projects and education organizations. 

“The work of The Organic Center is critical, and it can’t be done without our help,” Todd Linsky, Chairman of the Board of Trustees for The Center, stated in a release. “Our fundraiser not only celebrates the accomplishments of The Organic Center, but it celebrates the vision of everyone who supports this important work to empower farmers and consumers to make well-educated decisions based on sound research. Supporting The Organic Center is truly a win-win for all.” 

Featuring over 500 organic visionaries, activists, and businesses, attendees were graced with stimulating conversation and a delicious array of food at the event. This year’s event boasted a captivating theme of “Science Says So,” which also marked the single biggest fundraising event for the Center. 

Held during Natural Products Expo West, the fundraising event served as a huge networking opportunity during the gathering at large. Guests were also treated to unique and entertaining ways of understanding the science behind organics during the dinner.

Truly making for a differentiated event, and a year of firsts, the event further enamored attendees with highlights such as: 

• The Secret Ingredient: Hosts Raj Patel, Tom Philpott, and Rebecca McInroy dined on center stage with Dr. Shade and Chef Raiford to discuss the work of The Center and the science behind the 160 ingredients used to create the dinner.
• Capitol Hill Support: U.S. Congresswoman Chellie Pingree of Maine spoke to attendees over video and pledged to continue her role as a strong advocate for organic.
• Live-taped Podcast: By NPR-affliated and Austin, Texas-based The Secret Ingredient team. The team featured a live discussion during dinner with The Center’s Director of Science Programs Dr. Jessica Shade, and Chef and cultivar of the all-organic dinner served, Chef Matthew Raiford. 
• Debut of two short films: The shown silver screen works showcased the beneficial work of the organization, and its focus on fostering healthy soils and research promotion. 

The Organic Center is an independent non-profit educational and research organization operating under the administrative auspices of the Organic Trade Association.

With another successful dinner under its belt, The Organic Center is looking even further ahead to all things organic, with its second-ever Organic Confluences Summit, to be held this May in Washington, DC. 

For more information on the event at large, and to get further geared up for next year’s dinner, click here.

Congrats on another fruitful event!

Organic Trade Association The Organic Center