GREETINGS, EVERYONE,
At OGC, we do things differently—partly because we’re owned by a perpetual purpose trust. This structure allows us to stay true to our mission and values as we do good in the world, care for our community, share profits, collaborate openly, and constantly learn and improve while growing the organic movement. The Sustainable Food and Agriculture Perpetual Purpose Trust and the many benefits of organic agriculture enable us to build a better world with every box of produce.
Our Autumn Update highlights our collective work through stories. You’ll read about the innovative and impactful organizations we’ve supported with Mission Fund grants this fall. You’ll also learn about the positive impact of our team working side-by-side with our grower partners. And to top it off, we’ll celebrate the winners of the Oregon Organic Excellence Awards, which were celebrated at a gala we cohosted while the National Organic Standards Board gathered in Portland. And much more.
Autumn is in full swing, and as I write this, our apple buyer, Brian Keogh, reports we have 27 varieties of apples in-house – plus a bounty of pears. With new varieties coming in every week, we’re excited to share the latest harvests from Northwest orchards with customers and eaters alike. It’s also the season for Northwest foraged mushrooms, chestnuts, chicories and hardy fall crops. What grows together goes together, and this season is downright delicious!
The holidays will be here soon, and we’re ready to help you bring organic goodness from farm fields to tables and menus throughout the region. I’m so proud of our team’s incredible effort to ensure a successful season for growers, customers and eaters.
It’s shaping up to be a great year for OGC because of the hard work of everyone at the company and your partnership. Thank you for being part of the OGC community. It means the world to us.
Brenna Davis CEO
OGC Buyer Jeff Fairchild
OGC’s Director of Purchasing Mike Nuebeck
OGC coworkers exploring the apple orchard
OGC’s Brita Zeiler & Kristi Yoder
Fall in the Fields, Vineyards & Orchards
Time in the field with our grower partners connects us to their organic practices, day-to-day life and families, as well as the beauty and challenge of farming. Shaking their hands and hearing their stories firsthand deepens our connection with the people and places that grow the produce flowing through our facility and into stores every day.
In September, we traveled to the Willamette Valley to learn about organic dry farmed melons, summer row crops –everything from zucchini to broccoli to Indigo cherry tomatoes – and specialty grapes, like Jupiter, Einset and Thomcord. Each farm’s history and present-day story is unique, but a common thread is the hard work, long days and dedication every grower puts into their calling and their commitment to helping people connect to food and farming.
In early October, orchard trips in Washington and Oregon reminded visitors why this region is the world’s apple and pear basket. The best part was experiencing the scale of OGC’s grower partners – from smaller orchards steeped in organic history and hands-on practices to enormous operations that export organic around the world.
The technology, investment and innovation required were on full display throughout our tour, from the V-shaped trellises in the orchards to the high-tech sorting, packing and storage systems in the facilities we toured.
For an experience on a completely different scale, OGC also spent an afternoon with one of our heirloom apple growers – the first certified organic commercial orchard in Oregon. The team learned about the farm’s hand-grafted apple trees grown on dwarfing rootstock and planted on trellis systems.
These field trips are more than just a chance to observe – they’re opportunities to strengthen the relationships that make our work possible. By standing side by side with growers, we continue to learn, grow and stay connected to the organic agriculture movement, making sure we deliver the highest quality produce to our customers while supporting the farmers who make it all happen.
Apple and pear harvest was in full swing. These fruits are a huge part of the area’s economy, with over 90% of the country’s organic apples coming from Washington.
Tomato War 2024 A HARVEST CELEBRATION WITH A MESSY TWIST
Every year, OGC gathers for a tradition that’s as wild as it is unforgettable – our very own Tomato War. Think La Tomatina, but with a local twist. Where else can you chuck tomatoes at coworkers?
At Gathering Together Farm, we duck behind trees, laughing as we hurl overripe tomatoes at our teammates and friends in a good-natured, messy showdown.
But it’s not just about tomato tossing. It’s a celebration of the harvest, a time to enjoy great food, soak in the beautiful farm surroundings and appreciate the camaraderie that makes OGC special.
Kids dashed through the fields, participated in the tomato war and got creative with art projects.
As the crisp autumn air settles in and the sun begins to wane, we enjoy taking a moment to reflect on what truly matters: our incredible community. We’re thankful for each other, our growers and our customers, all of whom help us grow the organic movement, one season at a time.
So, until next year, coworkers... see you on the field! A big thank you to our friends at Gathering Together Farm for welcoming the OGC family onto your land, year after year.
Stakeholders Meet & Reflect on OGC’s Trust Ownership & the Movement
At OGC, our trust is our guiding light. As a purpose trustowned company, our mission is our legacy – guaranteed, with no risk of being sold or driven by shareholder demands. It’s a revolutionary approach to ownership, and each year, we gather to hear from our trust leadership and deepen our commitment to this growing movement.
At this year’s virtual gathering in late September, we heard from Natalie Reitman-White, Trust Protector Committee member (TPC) member, who shared exciting updates on the trust ownership movement.
“Today’s crises require more than a profit-driven mindset. We need an economic system that cares for people and the planet while still delivering profit,” Natalie said. “The trust purpose ownership movement is growing fast, with more than 50 U.S. companies across diverse industries – from food and agriculture to tech and financial services –embracing this model.”
This fall marks the launch of the Purpose Trust Ownership Network. Join us to expand your purpose trust network, access tools, advocate for policies, and more. Reach out to Natalie at natalie@purposeowned.com for details.
ORGANIC AS A CLIMATE SOLUTION
OGC’s CEO, Brenna Davis, followed with a powerful update on the company’s continued commitment to organic farming.
“We come back to one truth: organic is the answer. This summer was the Northern Hemisphere’s warmest on record, and we’re seeing the devastating impacts of the climate crisis everywhere. Organic agriculture is part of the solution —it boosts biodiversity by 30%, pollinator diversity by 50%, releases 50% less nitrates into groundwater and captures 44% more stable sequestered carbon. If you want to do something today to combat climate change, eat organic produce.”
INSIGHTS FROM TRUST-OWNED BUSINESS LEADERS
A key highlight of the gathering was hearing from leaders of other trust-owned companies, including Gavin McComas of Sundance Natural Foods, Christopher Peck of Natural Investments and Ari Weinzweig of Zingerman’s Community of Businesses. Each shared their journey with trust ownership and its impact on their businesses.
Gavin expressed relief knowing Sundance would always stay true to its mission: individuals nourishing community, nourishing individuals. Christopher discussed the challenges of transitioning to a new ownership structure, while Ari reflected on how trust ownership provided continuity without changing the essence of their business.
“It’s like one river flowing into another,” Ari said. “The big change is that succession is no longer a question, which is a relief.”
Gavin added, “After signing the papers, we had a celebration. I learned that many people were worried about what would happen to Sundance when I passed away. They were relieved to know the Sundance they love will continue.”
“This summer was the Northern Hemisphere’s warmest on record, and we’re seeing the devastating impacts of the climate crisis everywhere. Organic agriculture is part of the solution — it boosts biodiversity by 30%, pollinator diversity by 50%, releases 50% less nitrates into groundwater and captures 44% more stable sequestered carbon. If you want to do something today to combat climate change, eat organic produce.”
– BRENNA DAVIS OGC CEO
Stakeholders Re-Elect Reitman-White to the Trust Protector Committee
Natalie Reitman-White, Founder and Principal of Purpose Owned, has been elected for a third term on the Trust Protector Committee. Natalie was a longtime OGC coworker and a founding member of the Sustainable Food Agriculture and Perpetual Purpose Trust. An inspiring leader and generous thought partner, Natalie has become national recognized in the the steward ownership movement. We’re thrilled to have her continued leadership.
Learn more about Natalie, and other members of the TPC, by checking out their profiles here.
OGC is looking for two innovative people to join our Board of Governors.
Owned by a ground-breaking Perpetual Purpose Trust, we do things a little differently here; always putting people, planet and purpose first.
As a board member, you will be part of a collaborative and thoughtful team dedicated to keeping OGC profitable, future-oriented and a great place to work.
We have a very diverse workforce and are continually striving to reflect that diversity on our Board. We welcome applicants who bring fresh perspectives and unique skills. If you have expertise in mergers and acquisitions, environmental health and safety or operations, we’ll be extra excited. Must love organic produce! This is a paid position. To express interest and learn more, please email trust@organicgrown.com
OGC Inspires & Educates at the Annual Provender Conference
The 48th annual Provender Conference brought together hundreds of passionate individuals from the natural and organic food industry, with Hood River, Oregon offering a vibrant setting for learning, networking and inspiration. As a proud sponsor and active participant, OGC has long seen this gathering as a vital investment in the future of the organic movement.
This year, OGC leaders were honored to host several dynamic sessions. Our team is passionate about what we do and helping others in the natural and organic trade thrive.
Here’s a look at the sessions we contributed to:
REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURE: WHAT IT IS, WHY IT MATTERS AND HOW IT’S EMERGING
As the interest in regenerative agriculture continues to grow, OGC’s Mike Dill joined leaders from Dr. Bronner’s and PCC Community Markets for an engaging roundtable to discuss what regenerative agriculture truly means. Using interactive polling, the session fostered a rich exchange of ideas and insights from attendees. We explored the role of regenerative practices in shaping the future of agriculture and why it’s vital for us all to engage with this emerging trend.
REIMAGINING OWNERSHIP: PURPOSE-DRIVEN BUSINESS SUCCESSION
OGC’s Director of Purchasing, Mike Neubeck, shared his experience with OGC’s transition to a Perpetual Purpose Trust, exploring how this model ensures mission-driven businesses can uphold their values through succession. Alongside Gavin McComas of Sundance Natural Foods and Charlie Tilt of Hummingbird Wholesale, this panel opened a dialogue on how to secure long-term purpose without “selling out,” offering insights for business founders looking to leave a meaningful legacy.
HOLIDAY MERCHANDISING PLAYBOOK: DRIVING SALES IN PRODUCE DEPARTMENTS
Produce departments are the backbone of natural grocery stores, and OGC’s Jeff Fairchild, a renowned produce merchandiser, led this essential session on preparing for the holiday season. Attendees walked away with strategic tools to boost sales and profitability during the year’s busiest months. Jeff’s expertise in produce merchandising continues to shape how stores approach seasonal displays to meet both financial goals and customer satisfaction.
PRODUCE ROUNDTABLE: SHARING CHALLENGES, SOLUTIONS AND SUCCESSES
In a workshop facilitated by OGC’s Senior Sales Manager Kristi Yoder, produce staff from across the industry had the opportunity for peer-to-peer sharing to connect and problem-solve together. From discussing best practices to addressing common challenges, this roundtable created a space for honest conversations about what’s working and what isn’t in produce departments across the region.
Our participation in the Provender Conference exemplifies OGC’s deep-rooted belief in growing the organic movement and fostering collaboration across the trade. By sponsoring and lending our experience to sessions, we’re investing in the future of organic agriculture and strengthening the community we’re proud to be part of.
Learn about becoming a Provender Alliance member at www.provender.org
OGC’S Mission Fund 58 GRANTS AWARDED THIS
We believe that thriving communities and a healthy planet are the roots of a sustainable future. Since 2020, our Mission Fund grant program has been one way we extend our deep commitment to this vision. Written in our bylaws as a purpose-led, trust-owned company, giving back is more than a practice for us – it’s a promise. OGC has given more than $836,000 to mission-aligned partners over the last five years.
Funded by proceeds from the previous year’s success, OGC’s Mission Fund invests in a wide range of nonprofits, organic farmers and customer partners who share our goal: to cultivate a more just, resilient and organic food system.
OGC’S GIVING FOCUSES ON KEY AREAS CLOSE TO OUR HEART:
• Supporting Organic Farm Viability: We invest in the future of small and medium organic farms, helping them thrive despite the challenges they face.
• Strengthening Our Supply Chain: By backing initiatives that build resilience among our farmers and customers, we ensure a stable and sustainable food system for everyone.
• Preserving Farmland: Keeping land in organic production secures a future for the next generation of organic farmers.
• Educating Youth: The future of organic agriculture lies in the hands of today’s youth, so we support programs that connect kids to the land, their food and the principles of organic farming.
• Increasing Access to Organic Food: Organic food should be for everyone, that’s why we’re committed to increasing access for underserved communities.
• Promoting Equity in Food Systems: By supporting Black, Indigenous, People of Color, LGBTQIA+ and other underrepresented communities, we’re helping to create a more equitable food system.
• Addressing Climate Change: Climate change is an existential threat to agriculture. We fund nonprofits working to protect the environment, conserve natural resources and help farmers adapt to changing conditions.
• Supporting Organic Seeds: We fund organic seed and varietal research to create a healthier, more resilient future for organic farming.
Each of these giving priorities reflect OGC’s deep-rooted mission to not only sell organic produce but to cultivate a better world – one where healthy food is available to all, the environment is protected, and every farmer, customer and partner thrives.
“Our Mission Fund grants aim to lift up changemakers – from small organic farmers to climate advocates to retailers – we know everyone can play a role in creating a more equitable and sustainable world.”
– BRIAN KEOGH OGC Buyer & Co-Chair of OGC’s Giving Committee
Impact THIS FALL
This fall, $119,500 in grants were awarded to the following supply chain partners and allies. We admire and trust these organizations and hope you’ll join us in supporting their amazing work.
Celebrating VISIONARIES IN Organic Agriculture
Fall is all about harvest and last month, we celebrated a different kind of bounty – the talent, hard work and dedication within Oregon’s organic community. The Oregon Organic Coalition (OOC) recently honored eight stand-out individuals and organizations with the 2024 Organic Excellence Awards. These champions, which include an OGC coworker, allies and grower-suppliers, have helped Oregon’s organic industry flourish from farm to policy, and we’re thrilled to introduce you to the 2024 Organic Excellence Award winners!
Organic Legacy (20+ Years of Service): Lynn Coody, Organic Produce Wholesalers Coalition
An organic agriculture trailblazer since 1974, Lynn Coody’s career has shaped the foundation of the organic movement, from restructuring Tilth in the Northwest to consulting on organic standards internationally. Lynn’s leadership has had a far-reaching impact – whether through local farming initiatives or national policy development.
Farmworker Advocate: Laura Bennett, Eloisa Organic Farm
Laura Bennett wears many hats at Eloisa Organic Farm – from managing CSA programs and farmers markets to launching new community farming projects. Her ability to connect with customers and inspire local initiatives exemplifies the vital role of farmworkers in the success of Oregon’s organic movement.
Organic Advocate: Jeff Fairchild, Organically Grown Company
With four decades in the organic industry, Jeff’s career has been dedicated to building sustainable connections between growers, retailers and consumers. From his early days with Nature’s Food and Tool to his pivotal roles at New Seasons Market and Organically Grown Company, Jeff’s influence continues to uplift organic farmers and transform regional marketplaces.
Farmer (Crops): Joe Siri, Siri & Son Farms
At the helm of a fourth-generation farm based in Oregon’s Willamette Valley, Joe Siri guided Siri & Son Farms through a successful transition to organic production in 2005. With nearly year-round operations, the farm balances market staples with collaborative research projects through Oregon State University and the Dry Farming Institute, cementing its role as a leader in the state’s organic produce scene.
Farmer (Livestock & Dairy): Donnie Wilcox, Wilcox Family Farms
For more than 115 years, Wilcox Family Farms has set a high standard for organic livestock production. Known for its innovative, pasture-raised egg practices and commitment to sustainable food systems, the farm supplies fresh eggs locally, keeping most within 100 miles of production.
Handler: Café Mam
More than just a coffee roaster, Café Mam champions sustainability and ethical sourcing. This family-run business in Eugene exemplifies organic stewardship, combining highquality coffee with a commitment to Indigenous partnerships and cultural preservation.
Researcher/Scientist: James Cassidy, Oregon State University (OSU)
James Cassidy, the beloved energetic soil science instructor at OSU, has been a champion for organic farming for over two decades. Known for his dynamic teaching style and dedication to the OSU Organic Growers Club, James has inspired thousands of students to get their hands dirty in the name of organic farming. His dedication to research and teaching is shaping the next generation of organic farmers.
Public Service Award: Representative Dan Rayfield
As former Speaker of the Oregon House, Representative Dan Rayfield’s leadership was instrumental in securing expanded funding for OSU’s Organic Extension Program. His advocacy for organic policy and educational opportunities continues to advance sustainable agriculture in Oregon.
These incredible individuals and businesses remind us of the power of community, innovation and passion in building a strong organic future. Let’s raise a toast (of organic apple cider, of course) to the 2024 Organic Excellence Award winners. Cheers!
OGC EARNS Oregon Trucking Association IMAGE AWARD
OGC truck drivers go more miles than many of us will in a lifetime, through all kinds of weather and all hours of the day. We’ve always known that our drivers are amazing – they’re professional, hardworking and kind. And now, they’ve been honored with Oregon Trucking Association’s Image Award. The award recognizes companies making a positive impression and boosting trucking’s overall image and highlights the many ways companies play an important role in promoting the trucking industry.
The OTA Image Award recognizes the best of the best in Oregon’s trucking industry – and that’s OGC’s transportation team!
Organic Advocates Unite in the Rose City HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE FALL NOSB MEETING
When most people think about organic agriculture, they picture farmers, pollinators, delicious food, gardening and their favorite markets. But behind those visions is a robust system of checks and balances that ensures organic farming maintains its integrity and continues to deliver the high-quality food we love.
Last month, organic leaders from across the country gathered in Portland for the National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) and National Organic Coalition meetings. It was the first time the NOSB held its meetings in Oregon since 2013, and a lot has changed since then. The 15 board members are new (each serves a five-year term), and there’s a new Head of the National Organic Program. Yet many dedicated advocates at this year’s gathering also participated in 2013. The commitment to the organic community runs deep!
While the structure of the meeting mirrored that of 2013, there was a fresh energy in the air. Some of that buzz may have come from the National Organic Coalition’s pre-meeting event, where OGC supplier Inder Singh of Riverland Family Farms and three other Northwest farmers shared inspiring stories during a farmer panel.
There was also a powerful call to action from Organic Seed Alliance Advocacy & Communications Director Cathleen McCluskey, encouraging the industry to boost demand for organic seed. Dr. Jenny Tucker, Deputy Administrator of the National Organic Program, asked stakeholders to consider rethinking the certification process so it might be more sound, sensible and equitable.
“These meetings are where change and continuous improvement start,” said Mike Dill, OGC’s Director of Advocacy and Sustainability. “The board considers all stakeholder input, no matter the size of your business or strength of your voice. Everyone’s ideas and opinions matter.”
The NOSB meeting agenda was packed. The discussions were compelling from the moment Oregon Department of Agriculture’s Director Lisa Charpilloz Hanson and USDA Undersecretary Jenny Lester Moffitt opened the event. Board members tackled key topics ranging from redefining what compost is allowed in organic to pesticide and chemical residue testing and the use of organic seed, keeping the audience fully tuned in.
A standout moment from the gathering was a reception hosted by the Oregon Organic Coalition, where several of OGC’s farming partners and longtime allies were honored with the 2024 Oregon Organic Excellence Awards (see page 16). The National Organic Program’s Standards Division and Organic Valley’s Adam Warthesen also received awards for their unmatched impact on the organic industry.
USDA Undersecretary and organic champion Jenny Lester Moffitt gave a nod to the Oregon Organic Coalition’s efforts to grow organic at the state level. She delivered an inspiring speech about the positive progress being made across the country through the Transition to Organic Partnership Program and Organic Market Development grants. Having the Undersecretary in the house and mingling with the crowd was an honor.
OGC extends heartfelt thanks to the National Organic Coalition, the USDA and National Organic Program staff and all who helped make this event a success, including Café Mam, Hummingbird Wholesale, Northwest Horticultural Council, OMRI, Oregon Organic Coalition, Oregon Tilth, Organic Seed Alliance, Organic Trade Association, Organic Valley, Tilth Alliance and Washington Apple Commission.
A report on the NOSB meeting highlights, outcomes and next steps is available on the Organic Trade Association’s website. Click here to download.
Organically Grown Company appreciates the leadership, experience and guidance provided by our dedicated Board of Governors, the SFAPPT Trust Protector Committee and Trust Enforcers.
BOARD
Mike Bedessem | Hudson, WI
Cathy Calfo | Santa Cruz, CA
Bianca Kaprielian | Oakland, CA
Edmund LaMacchia | Soquel, CA
Maia Larson | Eugene, OR
Brian Rohter | Hood River, OR
You can learn more about their experience and accomplishments at www.organicgrown.com/ourboard
TRUST PROTECTOR COMMITTEE
ARE YOU AN OGC CUSTOMER, GROWER, INVESTOR, COMMUNITY ALLY OR COWORKER?
If you fall into one of these groups, you have the opportunity to influence how our business is run by becoming a Qualified Stakeholder. Learn more and submit an Expression of Interest
Kim Gibson Clark | Eugene, OR
David Lively | Eugene, OR
Joe Rogoff | Guerneville, CA
George Siemon | Viroqua, WI
Natalie Reitman-White | Kimberley, BC
TRUST ENFORCERS
Kate Danaher | Nevada City, CA
Mike Neubeck | Eugene, OR
Andy Westlund | Scio, OR organicgrown.com