INDIANAPOLIS, IN - Lori Taylor continues to be an advocate for all things fresh produce. Recently, it was announced that the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of The Produce Moms® (TPM) spoke about the benefits and necessity of incorporating fresh fruits and vegetables as part of a healthy lifestyle as a keynote speaker for the 2022 Kiwanis International Convention.

“The fact that the keynote address at the Kiwanis International Convention focused on learning about and exploring projects that ‘help kids get what they need to grow up healthy’ made it a perfect opportunity for TPM and the produce industry to continue messaging to [the] global community leaders about the critical role fresh fruits and vegetables play in a child’s life,” Taylor explained. “I’m encouraged when internationally recognized groups like Kiwanis look to the produce industry and the work of The Produce Moms to help guide their leadership as they build future programs to support the health and wellness of children.”

Held between June 8 and 11, the international convention was kick-started by Taylor Friday morning of the convention as the “Ready to Lead - Kiwanis Launchpad” speaker spoke to the global constituents of the world-famous Kiwanis in Indianapolis. The Kiwanis, whose mission is to improve the lives of children through community-based events, boasts a membership of over half a million people in over 80 countries.

This year’s Kiwanis convention revolved around exploring “projects that help kids get what they need to grow up healthy,” noted the release. In her presentation, entitled, “Serving the Children of the World… Through Fruits and Vegetables,” Taylor cited evidence from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention pointing to mortality rates for those who do not include enough fresh produce in their diets, as well as discussing the health benefits fruits and vegetables bring to everyone, especially children.

Taylor continued by sharing research from the International Fresh Produce Association regarding the global consumer’s intent surrounding fresh produce consumption. The current state of USDA’s School Meals and Child Nutrition Programs was also covered, along with a grassroots action alert to support the extension of free school meals, which is set to expire on June 30.

Additionally, Taylor made the role of TPM relatable to the role of Kiwanis as influencers, helping the audience understand the difference between being just an organization or commodity to being a brand of influence and making a difference in the world.

For more information on the keynote, click here.

ANUK will keep an eye on the wire for ways to elevate fresh produce and our industry.

The Produce Moms®