Empowering Individuals in the Global Community Through Entrepreneurship
View Recent Team Member Spotlights
Lisa has been super successful in raising full loans for Whole Planet Foundation during our 2013 Annual Prosperity Campaign. Here is what she had to say about her last day of collecting donations:
"Literally in the final hour yesterday, 2 of my friends who are regular WFM customers that I've been speaking with since our campaign began, shopped for their groceries and each donated a full loan. It totally blew me away.
Plus my online page brought in 2 full loans of $164 plus some more, totaling $358.
I believe my count of full loans donated is 10 plus the 6 matching ones, totaling 16 full loans and somewhere upwards of $5000 raised.
Having this be my focus, to have the opportunity to make a difference in peoples lives, both on the receiving side and the giving side of our customers and [WFM] Team Members, has inspired and touched me in ways I cannot really express fully in words right now. Definitely my experience of life has dramatically been impacted being part of the Whole Planet Foundation's fundraising campaign."
Thank you Lisa!
Haight
Matthew said "I support Whole Planet because I've seen the difference it can make in someone's livelihood, and it challenges and inspires me to do work that I fully care about.
I traveled across the country with Whole Foods, but there was still more I wanted to see. Luckily, an opportunity presented itself with our Whole Planet Foundation. Team Members could apply for a two week trip to one of a handful of countries, from Peru to India. This wasn't for a vacation, but for an immersive experience learning about [Whole Planet Foundation funded] microcredit clients, products we source, and foreign culture.
This was the exactly type of experience I was looking for, so I applied, and next thing you know, I found myself in India, visiting cashew production facilities, dancing with kids, and painting murals. I came back with a much deeper appreciation for life, community, and family, not to mention a taste for rich, spicy food.
Just 4 years prior, I was just a southern boy looking for a steady job, and now I find myself constantly broadening my horizons and looking for the next great adventure. The best part is, Whole Foods is totally supportive of this lifestyle, because they know that if I pursue my passions, I'm going to be able to bring that back into the company somehow.
So who knows where I find myself next, but I know this for sure: my path is a lot more unexpected, and I like it that way!"
Whole Planet Foundation has been near and dear to my heart from its inception. It is such a powerful example of what can be accomplished when we all come together for a common good. When I read the moving stories of how such small loan amounts can truly change a person’s life there was no hesitation about what should be done...give. It feels so good to be able to be even a small part of WPF as it changes the world one loan at a time. “Caring for our communities” is a very important core value for Whole Foods Market and touches the lives of all our Team Members in so many different ways. We work hard to live up to it daily in the South Region by empowering Team Members to get involved and make a difference. Sharing the story and creating excitement around WPF is key. We talk about it at orientation, in meetings, vision days and our TIME (Team Member Awareness Group), Marketing teams and Associate Store Team Leaders are the driving force behind it. They make it relevant to our Team Members. Knowledge is powerful and once our Team Members learn the story of WPF they want to help and they want to give. I could not be any prouder of our Region as our payroll deduction contributions to Whole Planet rise above 53% and are still climbing. As a region our support for WPF will only continue to grow as we search for new and creative ways to raise awareness and funds for the Foundation we all love dearly.”
Elizabeth is a Global Whole Foods Market Team Member who signed up on day one for Whole Planet Foundation payroll deduction because "I thought it was such a unique program, but the longer I'm with the company, the more I realize it's things like Whole Planet Foundation that are really at the center of what makes Whole Foods Market a positive force in the world and not just another corporation. It's not charity – it's empowerment, and those two are like night and day. I am continually impressed with how well the foundation is run and how long-reaching its arms are. The best part, though, is how truly passionate our team members are – from volunteer trips to store fundraising to events — it's walking the walk, from Global to store level. I've witnessed this firsthand."
“I was inspired 4 years ago at the Vision Day in Seattle. Such small donations can make a difference in their lives and the stories of how creative people were with the loans was fantastic! I am glad that my donation goes to help people.”
Jessica is a Customer Service supervisor at the Newtonville Whole Foods Market in Massachusetts. She supports microlending programs through Whole Planet Foundation by donating from every paycheck "because it is such a simple and meaningful way to allow people to take control of their own lives." Access to microcredit provides impoverished people an opportunity to change their own lives and the lives of their children through their own hard work and ingenuity. Thank you Jessica!
Joanna is the Local Vendor Liaison at the Green Hills Whole Foods Market in Tennessee. She says "I give to Whole Planet Foundation because I want to make a difference in a person’s life who wants to make a difference in their own life. It is such a small amount of money to contribute to such a big cause." I love that she sees that such a small amount of money can make such a big difference when it is directed toward microlending programs, especially when a lot of us get together and each give a little. It ends up being a lot of opportunity as the average first loan that Whole Planet Foundation funds in the developing world is $164.
Jonn, the Seafood Team Leader at the Regency Whole Foods Market in Omaha Nebraska, said "I’ve seen firsthand how little aid money in other nonprofits actually reaches the people who need it most. I like that Whole Foods Market covers the administrative costs associated with Whole Planet Foundation, making sure that 100% of the money donated to the Foundation actually reaches microlending inititutions, helping the actual recipients of the loan."
Junior is a wonderful Whole Foods Market Team Member from the Palm Beach Gardens WFM who is a strong supporter of Whole Planet Foundation and the difference that microcredti can make in people's lives, especially in Haiti. Junior says "I give to Whole Planet Foundation through my paycheck, because it is the best and most convenient way for me help so many around the world. Giving to Whole Planet Foundation to fund microloans is the best way to help with fighting poverty around the world."
Why do I support WPF? Since I donate from my paycheck, that means every single hour of every single day I work, I’m helping to alleviate poverty in places all over the world. Whole Planet Foundation connected me, every day, to the rest of humanity, because we really are all in this together.
Kim made 3 salsas with fresh ingredients from her garden to sell to raise funds, helping people lift themselves out of poverty through access to microcredit loans through Whole Planet Foundation. She did it beacause “Everyone deserves a chance. The foundation’s work supports mostly third-world countries where folks don’t have as many opportunities as we do to support our families.” I wish we were in the Rocky Mountain Region to snap up some of that Salsa Verde, Spicy Salsa and Zesty Salsa. Thank you Kim!
Lisa does such amazing handicrafts including this quilt and others and shamrock pins for St Patty's Day, all to raise funds and awareness for microlending programs through Whole Planet Foundation. We thank you Lisa for using your ingenuity , talents and hard work to give women around the world the opportunity to use their ingenuity, talents and hard work to give their families to a better life.
Maria is the Marketing Specialist at the Regency Whole Foods Market in Omaha, Nebraska. She says “I donate to Whole Planet Foundation through payroll deduction because I have seen firsthand how microcredit gives borrowers an opportunity they may otherwise not have been given. It is humbling to know that donating a small amount can make a huge impact to a microcredit client and their family in a developing country. I am grateful that Whole Foods Market educates team members and customers about the need for donations and that they make it so easy for us to donate year-round.”
Matthew, a Whole Body Team member at the Richardson Whole Foods Market in Dallas, Texas supports Whole Planet Foundation because “It helps support the growth and progress of people in less fortunate circumstances, so that one day they too have a chance to participate in the global economy.“
Nick is a produce team leader from Harry's Farmers Market, Whole Foods Market's Cobb location. He participates in team member giving to fund microlending programs through Whole Planet Foundation because "With Whole Planet Foundation we fight poverty around the world, and encourage our team members to be considerate of people less fortunate than ourselves."
Olivia is WFM Novato’s Customer Service Associate Team Leader. She came in second in raising money for Whole Planet Foundation during this year's Annual Prosperity Campaign. When asked what motivated her, she replied, “I’ll do anything I can do to help people. Asking customers to donate money for such a great cause made me happy!”.
“I first learned about microlending in a ‘Politics of the Development World’ course in college 10 years ago and was very inspired by the work of Muhammad Yunus and Grameen Bank, and after coming to Whole Foods Market in 2009 I naturally became very passionate about Whole Planet Foundation and the work it does all over the globe. The 2012 Prosperity Campaign has given me the opportunity to showcase that passion and to hopefully inspire others as well. I personally have given enough to fund over 3 initial loans in the past year, and I challenge any team member that can to do the same”
Patrick is an Associate Store Team Leader of the Bellevue store in Washington state. As the result of his leadership, empowerment of his Team Members and hard work to raise money during our 2012 Annual Prosperity Campaign, Bellevue raised close to $50,000 in customer donations and he is headed to meet microcredit clients in India.
Amongst other efforts, Bellevue hung this amazing banner on the store to raise awareness and created a shoppable area in their store called "Prosperity Alley" featuring Supplier Alliance for Microcredit vendors who give $50,000 a year to support microlending porgrams through Whole Planet Foundation. Hooray to Patrick and to all the Bellevue Team Members who support WPF in such amazing ways!
Learn more about the Annual Prosperity Campaign
Contribute to WPF through an online campaign
Start your own campaign to Raise a Loan to Change Lives
Rachal is the Marketing Team Leader at the Sonoma Whole Foods Market and she is super passionate about the power of microcredit. Here is what she has to say about Whole Planet Foundation's work “Big fan of micro lending and considering the abundance of items I’m fortunate enough to choose from each day I want to ensure I’m supporting women in those areas that don’t have the opportunities I have. I know it isn’t much but hopefully in my life time I’ll have given a few full loans! I love to support women in need in any way that I can and payroll deductions makes it so easy.”
Randy works in the Produce Department at the Novato California Whole Foods Market. Whenever he bought lunch at the store, he always made sure to donate his change to Whole Planet Foundation. When asked why he did it, he replied, “I love the fact that I get to work for a company that is willing to help others. Anything that I can do to support that, I will do.” Its is due to the generosity of Team Members like Randy that Whole Planet Foundation is able to fund microlending programs in 53 countries around the globe, where Whoel Foods Market sources products, as a way to help impoverished people in those communities to have the opportunity for a better life.
Sarah and Susan are on the Whole Body Purchasing Team working at Global in Austin, TX. They had the idea for a Whole Body Garage Sale. They set up all of the samples that they had collected over the year and invited Team Members to "shop," offering donations in exchange for products.
“It’s a very special thing to be able to support a foundation that not only helps women and their families out of poverty, creates the unique kind of sustainable change that micro credit loans foster, and be able to get creative and spontaneous in raising money where 100% of what is donated goes directly to the people the foundation is assisting. The kind of good feeling that comes from doing anything that profoundly improves the lives of people is truly a rewarding opportunity we are honored to participate in.”
Shahena is the top cashier fund raiser at the Kensington Whole Foods Market store and was the one Team Member who was most worried about whether she could raise money. When asked how she has been so successful she said that she asks every single person who comes to her till to donate. Thank you Shahena!
Skip and the Global Data Team had the idea to collect their samples/trials and offer them to Team Members with the option to donate to Whole Planet Foundation in exchange for their favorite products. So far they have raised over $845! Skip says, "the idea of empowering people in some of the most impoverished conditions around the world is amazing. Anything we can do to help that empowerment not only improves their lives, their family situation, and their local communities. It also improves the world. Now, who wouldn’t want to help improve the world?"
“I come from a poor family in rural Africa (Ethiopia) and I know very well what poverty is. So, I am donating the little amount of money I have to Whole Planet Foundation so I can give back and help fight poverty."
This year, along with many other Team Members, Amber has provided significant support for the Whole Planet Foundation, particularly during our Annual Prosperity Campaign. She has done an excellent job in educating and encouraging Team Members to support the Foundation. One event in particular, a Multicultural Potluck where Team Members were encouraged to bring and enjoy dishes that represented their cultural background, raised $200 for WPF .
Amber says, "I just feel lucky to be a part of Whole Planet Foundation by promoting it to my team members and within the store. It is such a unique opportunity to be able to empower other women and this foundation is truly special and powerful in doing so."
Thank you Amber!
Bertha is a Customer Service team member at Whole Foods Market Novato. She helped raise over $2,000 for the Whole Planet Foundation! When asked why she did it she replied, “Doing anything that I can do to help others is a drive in itself!” Gooo Bertha!
Beth is a Whole Foods Market Team Member with the Global Food Safety Team in Austin and she says "I give to the Whole Planet Foundation because it’s the right thing to do. As an employee of Whole Foods Market I’ve been presented with many opportunities to learn, grow, and expand my own skill set thus creating a better life for myself and my family. What better way to show gratitude than to pay it forward to those who want to do the same but just need the opportunity, especially in an impoverished community where even a little bit goes a long way?"
Buck Rollins is the Facility Team Leader for the North Atlantic Bakehouse and is a huge supporter of Whole Planet Foundation, encouraging his Team Members to learn about the work of the foundation and to get involved. He gives to WPF through payroll deduction "because I am so fortunate. I have so much and, in a meaningful way, want to give something back. I know that my donation goes to the heart of the matter and is not lost in administrative costs along the way as Whole Foods Maket covers all of the operating costs of the foundation. Whole Planet Foundation makes it simple to give directly to the cause. That’s why I give."
Grateful that Whole Planet Foundation is funding microcredit in Haiti through our partner Fonkoze and inspired by tasty dried mangos, Carrie Kotwas of the Rocky Mountain Bakehouse created this original recipe for mango tea bread. Carrie said "Our team tasted some amazing dried mangoes that were grown in Haiti and were inspired by the bold, bright flavor. For many of our team members, mangoes, pineapple and coconut bring back a taste of their childhood. There is definitely growing excitement about microcredit and baking this moist, sunny tea bread was a fun way for us to show big love for the Whole Planet Foundation."
Thank you Carrie and crew!
Old Town cashier Mike Beard raised the most funds in both the 2008 and the 2009 Prosperity Campaigns. Phenomenal! He won a trip to Guatemala to meet microcredit clients, see where Whole Foods Market sources coffee and do community service work in Pena Blanca where Whole Foods Market Team Member Volunteers have been teaching indigenous children basic literacy skills and building stoves. Thank you Mike, for all that you are doing to empower women to lift themselves and their communities out of poverty.
Hmmmm......which cashier will raise the most funds in 2010?
My life is enhanced in more ways than can be expressed in ink from meeting the Indian women who’ve received our Whole Planet Fund Microcredit loans. We visited over 40 women and walked in the community where their businesses are bubbling up. Thank you to all the TMs who give from their check! It is my dream for every TM to be donating at least $1 and for as little as $7 or $8 per check one person can fund a microcredit loan in a year..i promise you it makes a difference!!
"Sometimes, we forget that there are those less fortunate who are struggling day to day for food, water, and shelter. Whole Foods is doing a wonderful service by involving their Team Members in this program and by raising awareness in our communities. It is a great feeling to know that I work for a company that values the importance of helping others.”
Crystal is a Customer Service Supervisor at Oracle and she will be heading to Guatemala this summer as a Team Member volunteer.
Global VP of Operations
"Volunteering in Kenya with our Whole Planet partners Comfort the Children changed my life. That one dollar a paycheck donation in a place like Maai Mahiu means so much. I was playing with Ruth one of the incredible children in the program at her school, seeing the special attention she was getting from her teachers, while her mother was working sewing life jackets to be sold at our stores. Ruth and her Mom now had food to eat, a community that supported her, a real place to live, and a job. That is what your dollar can do. Join me in doing our part to end poverty for Ruth and all the children in the world."
Rocky Mountain Bakehouse
Edgar Flores Irigoyen is Rocky Mountain Bakehouse's Whole Planet Foundation facility rep and has been a bread baker for over 4 years. He studied child development during his college years in California and is lovingly called the 'Mayor of the Bakehouse'.
When asked about the Whole Planet Foundation, Edgar says, "I am inspired by how the foundation provides everyone across the world the same opportunity and helps people create better lives for themselves and their families".
Carrie Kotwas says "Edgar is a compassionate Whole Foods Market Team Member who shares Whole Planet Foundation's goals and mission with other Bakehouse Team Members on a personal level. Our Team Members greatly appreciate the fact that most of WPF funded clients are women and working moms."
Lamar
Store Team Member Awareness Group Leader Falesha Thrash got the idea from Tim Embody of Williamson in the South region to let "Pies Fly for the Planet". Lamar team members voted with their dollars (and coins) to land their Store Team Leader Steph Steele and Prep Foods Team Leader Shawn Slaven in the middle of a massive pie barrage. Here’s what Store Promotions Specialist Rebecca Scofield had to say about the "Pie in the Face" Event: "All of our Store Leaders and department Team Leaders submitted a picture of themselves that was glued to an empty coffee can. TM’s were encouraged to put money in the can of the person they would most like to see get a pie-in-the-face. The two with the most money (one from store leadership and one from department leadership) were then declared the ‘winners’ and received 1 pie-in-the-face from every single department. At Lamar that is 14 pies each! Needless to say Steph Steele (our Store Team Leader) and Shawn Slaven were incredible sports for taking the onslaught of pies that were hurled at them over and over again.” The pies were hurled at them by happy team members all in the name of empowering the poor while bemused shoppers looked on. The $514 raised by the “pie in the face” event will be used to fund microfinance in countries where Whole Foods Market sources product.
Whole Foods Market Williamson team members in the South Region raised awareness and $200 in their "Pie-in-the-Face" event and got to pie Regional Vice President Omar Gaye with at least nine pies. Way to step up to the plate Omar!
Feri has given a generous donation to Whole Planet Foundation in her mother's name a year after her mother passed away. She turned a sad day for her into an opportunity for change for a family living in poverty. Thank you Feri.
Feri is a Bakery team member in the West Vancouver store.
“It’s great to know that by donating only a small sum on a regular basis, we can help people help themselves.”
"I feel really happy raising money for Whole Planet Foundation because I have physically seen the products that the money I help raise enables the women to produce. That means that the women really are recieving the loans and pulling themselves out of poverty through access to microcredit."
"I donate to Whole Planet Foundation because I know firsthand the impact of a dollar has in poorer developing countries."
When Helena recieved her gainsharing check, a bonus that reflects Whole Foods Market's vision of "shared fate", she donated it to Whole Planet Foundation to fund a microloan. She says “When I think of what $200.00 can do for someone… achieve financial independence, become an entrepreneur, feed their family, enhanced quality of life, personal empowerment, rise out of poverty, develop and inspire others…that’s what it’s all about. If I can do that with $200.00…why not? The best part is they pay it back and the cycle begins anew.
I’m very proud to be a part of WFM.”
We are proud to be a part of Whole Foods Market too, especially with wonderful team members like you Helena. Thank you for your generosity.
“It’s never been so easy to help someone out. Every time I hear of a borrower’s success story, I get the chills knowing that I was a part of that even though I’m thousands of miles away. Whole Planet Foundation keeps me updated on borrower’s stories, statistics, and their work in developing-world communities. I trust that my dollars are going to those in need. It’s also great to know that my donation stays in that community and gets “recycled” to another borrower making it a gift that keeps on giving!”
Janna Fakier is the Training and Educational Specialist for the Northern California region.
“For the write-off on my state [tax] return.” Haha. Really though, the "I bought a goat sticker [campaign]" was an excellent way to introduce charitable giving to our little one. Additionally, it led to a great series of discussions about income disparity, imports/exports, lending and microcredit..."
Florida Regional Office
“As soon as I found out I was able to deduct a measly $10 a paycheck to WPF I did. Why? Well I read the information and realized that 3 lattes a pay period would provide a person with the ability to make it on their own. Start their own business, put food on their table for their family and community. It makes me feel good that my small donation of $10 a pay period brings security, independence, and wealth to people who would not have that option before. I donate because I can. “
Jennifer Jones is a Regional Accountant for the Florida Region
Jill Ward presented a check from her store, the Whole Foods Market in Bethesda Maryland, to Fonkoze, Whole Planet Foundation's trusted implementing partner in Haiti, to empower impoverished Haitians to change their own lives with access to microcredit. Jill says:
"Whole Planet Foundation allows us to connect to and empower people in communities where the food that we eat is produced.
Our customers and team members connect to the stories that come from the recipients of microcredit, and the idea that they can help change the world in some small way is meaningful and unique to our grocery shopping experience.
We revolve our celebration of Whole Planet Foundation around food! Our team members seek out recipes inspired by microcredit clients from all over the globe. We then share not only their stories, but the types of food that is traditional in their countries with our customers!
It’s difficult for some to understand how just a $185 microloan can change someone’s life. But, our customers and team members are so generous. Every day, they make the work of Whole Planet Foundation possible. This year, the Bethesda store raised over $17,000. The ripple effect of that is overwhelming!"
Thank you so much Jill for your compassion and hard work which enables Whole Planet Foundation to empower poor women around the world through access to microcredit.
Jose Ventura is a Team Member in the North Atlantic Kitchen who believes in helping people to help themselves. He has been writing personal checks to Whole Planet Foundation for some time now and says "Yo creo que el proyecto de Whole Planet Foundation es my positive y de gran ayuda para muchas personas con dificultades económica. Y a través de este programa se están abriendo pasos. Yo de mi parte me siento satisfecho de poder aportar mi granito de arena por esta gran causa."
In English: "I believe that the Whole Planet Foundation project is very positive and of great aid for many people with economic difficulties. And through this program opportunities are being offered. As for me I feel satisfied to be able to contribute my small seed to such a great cause."
Thank you Jose!
"I think that this is another way to help others and I am proud to be a part of a company that allows us the opportunity to invest in those communities and it’s people."
Julio is our Produce Team Leader in the Novato California Whole Foods Market. He is happy to support Whole Planet Foundation through payroll deduction because he loves to help people that are in need. He donates money whenever he can and above all loves to educate Whole Foods Market customers about it so that they can join us in helping to alleviate poverty in countries where Whole Foods Market sources products.
Katherine gives over $185 a year to fund microlending programs through her paycheck. “ I give a full micro loan per year because I have seen poverty all over the world first hand and this sort of support allows individuals to create a way to get out of the cycle of poverty in practical, functional ways with dignity. It’s not a hand out and creates a circular system that works for the whole community, not just one person. The money I give will not only help one person but will help many because when they pay the loan back it gets used again and again and again. It’s a way of giving that keeps giving. ”
"Giving is just like a circle. It starts at a point and ends where it began."
P Street, Washington, D.C., Mid-Atlantic Region
Kevin is one of three Whole Planet Foundation stewards at the P Street Whole Foods Market. When Regional VP Jane Mueller donated her All*Star jacket to the P Street auction to empower the poor through microcredit, Kevin gave $200 for it. He says “I bought it because it was for a good cause, and I gave it back so that we can raise more money. I challenge anyone in the company to match what I did.” At Whole Foods Market, All*Star team members are the best of the best, so Jane and Kevin’s generosity is right in line with the program which rewards excellence. Store Team Leader Jean-Michel Bartolo says “Kevin is a terrific team member and one of the reasons why P Street’s shoppers and team members have raised the most donations in the company!” Kevin is grilling hot dogs for microcredit and has helped raise $2,530 since the campaign started. He is a Customer Service team member and serves as the store’s parking coordinator. Jean-Michel says the P Street store has a lot of potential and wants to make a difference in the world. Thanks Kevin, Jane, Jean-Michel and all of P Street for the example you set and for making a difference!
"I think it is an incredible program where we can lend money to women to empower them to sustain their family by learning a trade and then being able to support their families, grow their business, and give back to their communities."
Laine and Joanna are Whole Body team members in the Yorkville Whole Foods Market store in Canada who support poverty alleviation worldwide through payroll deduction. Laine supports Whole Planet Foundation because "I feel good that the money I give to Whole Planet Foundation goes to help women run successful businesses who might not otherwise have the opportunity to do so." Joanna said "I support Whole Planet Foundation because 100% of my payroll donation goes to helping someone in need. Living in North America, puts me in a position of responsibility to help others. Giving to Whole Planet Foundation is so simple and has such a profound impact."
Laura, Store Team Leader of the Stoke Newington Whole Foods Market store, gives to Whole Planet Foundation through payroll donation because “Well, I signed up a long time ago when the program started in the US because it is part of who we are as a company (shared fate), and as a person, although I don’t contribute a lot, I try to give in as many ways as possible (spread the wealth).”
It’s wonderful to work for such a socially responsible company and Whole Planet Foundation is a perfect example of how we’re giving back at Whole Foods Market. As the In Store Educator at Yorkville, I’ve always had great pride in sharing Whole Planet Foundation with newly hired team members during New Member Orientation.
Melody is a Bakery Supervisor who participates in Team Member Giving through payroll deduction at her Whole Foods Market store in Sonoma because “I want to give wherever I can and to less fortunate! It is the right thing to do!”
"Whole Planet Foundation means that we can all make a difference by providing funds for this
program. I am looking forward to participating in the Team Member volunteer program next year."
Milton is one of the top 3 fundraisers at Jamboree for the 2010 WPF Prosperity Campaign.
"At the end of the day, I feel good knowing that I have helped somebody."
Nikki is one of the top 3 fundraisers at Jamboree for the 2010 WPF Prosperity Campaign.
“I’m from Nepal and I am very happy that Whole Planet Foundation is providing microloans in my country. Women have a difficult time in Nepal because it is a very male dominated society and there are not opportunities for them to run businesses or get loans. We have many very poor women in Nepal and all over the world who have to provide for their families- Whole Planet Foundation is giving them the opportunity to take care of their children and create a better life for their families.”
Nilu is a Customer Service team member in Cary N.C.
Guest Service Team Leader Nina Enamorado and her team are finding all sorts of ways to spread awareness and excitement during the Annual in Store Campaign including cashier “shout outs”, lunches for donations, pies contests and….. Wilcrest is a small store with a mighty voice. Hooray for Nina and her team for empowering each other to empower the poor through microcredit."QUOTE"
Carrie Lechevallier and Annette White of the Raleigh store in North Carolina are partners in their passion about Whole Planet Foundation. Together they have done a variety of projects and events to raise awareness and funds. Here is what Annette has to say about their activities: “We have both been passionate about Whole Planet Foundation since its creation. In the Raleigh store, Carrie is the Marketing Team Leader and I am the Demo Specialist. The role of women and families in different societies is a topic that is close to both of our hearts and the locations where Whole Planet Foundation is working include places that are sacred to both of us. Rarely does a store meeting go by when we do not give an update on what we are doing (in the store and local community) to help eliminate poverty through empowerment. We keep the Foundation in mind when planning events and activities year round. One such project is that we have sold greeting cards made with photos from each of our trips to Guatemala, with all the proceeds going to Whole Planet Foundation. This year during March, we put together several events that told the story of Whole Planet and its global impact including a movie screening for "Milagros: Made in Mexico." This amazing film was created by four local film makers and tells the story of the impact of micro-credit in small villages in Mexico. Partnering with a local Mexican restaurant and art school, we presented the film to an auditorium of people who saw powerful images and heard stories and posed questions to the film makers and us.” I was fortunate to be the first person from the South Region to be able to go on the Team Member Volunteer Trip during its pilot round in Costa Rica in 2007 and got to meet women whose lives have been personally impacted by microloans made possible through Whole Planet Foundation. It had a powerful impact on me and I have brought it back to the region with unstoppable passion to share the story with every Team Member so that they know what an amazing difference we are making in the world.” From Carrie: “I wanted to update you on Annette’s efforts. On October 11th she took part in a panel discussion at the Cameron Village Library. The discussion was on Micro-lending and Fair Trade. The other panelists were Elizabeth from 10,000 Villages and Larry from Larry’s Beans (we sell his local coffee). Annette did a great job (as usual) representing The Whole Planet Foundation!” Carrie and Annette are truly ambassadors for Whole Planet Foundation. Please join them in their quest to help Professor Muhammad Yunus “put poverty in a museum”.
Guest Service Team Leader Tara Hughes had an unusual birthday request this year. She asked her friends and fellow team members to bring in their old clothes, household goods, books and vacuum cleaners to be sold in a rummage sale to empower the poor to lift themselves out of poverty. She spent all day encouraging people to come shop the resulting rummage sale to recycle all the great things that their co-workers brought in. Together with her husband Jonathan who came from Woodway to help, her master merchandiser Tod and the lovely team of Gloria and Kaylan, she raised over $800 to empower the poor while recycling slightly used clothing and goods.We are ever grateful for your wonderful attitude and open heart Tara. Happy Birthday!
"Whole Planet Foundation gives women in poverty stricken areas a chance to make a living, and Whole Foods Market gives our Team Members the opportunity to support Whole Planet Foundation."
Tiffany is one of the top 3 fundraisers at Jamboree for the 2010 WPF Prosperity Campaign.
Asked why she supports Whole Planet Foundation, Whole Foods Market Park Royal Village team member Victoria said “It is my responsibility and honor to support this wonderful foundation which has opened doors, making a positive contribution to the lives and communities of many talented brothers and sisters around the world . Thank you Whole Planet Foundation.”
William Parent is a Whole Foods Market team member in the South Region who went on the Team Member Volunteer Program to Guatemala and gave a month of his time to support people in one of the communities where Whole Foods Market sources coffee and Whole Planet Foundation funds microlending programs. He says “Having the chance to meet the women who have received micro loans was a once in a life time experience. It was overwhelming to see how the loans have changed their lives and their community, and it was an honor to get to know them and their families. I’ll never forget the time I spent in Guatemala with the Whole Foods Market Team Member Volunteer Program and it will be something I will carry with me for the rest of my life."
Thank you William for investing your time and money into helping impoverished individuals to help lift themselves out of poverty. We appreciate you!
"The reason I like helping out with Whole Planet Foundation is to see people smile. I love to see the beaming smiles of the loan recipients, and I love seeing our customer's smiles when I ask them if they "would like to donate one million dollars to Whole Planet Foundation?"
Amber Alkofer of the Guest Services team at Palo Alto has such a happy and mission driven attitude that I asked her to share her ideas on the foundation with you. “WPF is just one more Global opportunity to crawl outside my comfortable world and give a little bit ($5 a paycheck that I do not miss...what is that… a latte?) to create an abundance for some one who has to walk 5 miles to get water from a well. I am from North Dakota and I know what it is like to haul water from a well, but not from a far distance and only when I visited some cousins a few times a year on the farm. I can help!! That’s how I feel. I can help in a way that is sustaining and bettering lives of woman and children, making communities stronger, healthier, and more educated. I believe in Grameen Trust and the few individuals who made an idea into a practice. The idea is the practice of giving a little, to help a lot which goes for the benefit of society, not to reap a personal material reward. I feel honored that I can help and I am amazed and awed at the great empathy and energy that my team in Palo Alto showed me with their enthusiasm for Whole Planet Foundation. We helped to raise more money than any other store in the Northern California region. We just realized how we could make a difference.”
"It was amazing to me to learn that the amount I spend on groceries each week could help someone start a business and change the lives of their family forever. If all the team members in a location donated just $1 per paycheck, we could generate one loan per paycheck as a group or be a part of lifting 26 families out of poverty in just one year. Why wouldn’t you want to be a part of that?"
Whole Foods Market Lamar, in Austin, TX, was #1 in calendar sales this year thanks to all of the hard work from Team Members like Connie. Connie says, "This fundraiser gave me the desire to help make a difference. It motivated me to sell as many Whole Planet Foundation calendars as possible. Every day I would set a goal to obtain, and when I achieved my goal I would set a larger goal the following day. I believe the best thing you can give someone in poverty is a chance; I was thrilled to help support the Whole Planet Foundation knowing that I made a difference in so many lives."
"Why I give to the Whole Planet Foundation in particular is because I feel my dollars will go further to help somebody out of poverty in a country in the developing world."
Elizabeth Carrion-Smuck is in Cash Up and is athe Backup Graphic Artist at the Quarry store in San Antonio Texas.
Enrique Rovero of the Arroyo store in Pasadena California is proud of Whole Planet Foundation and says: I am very passionate about this program because I know it really works and is helping people that just need the opportunity so they can help themselves. During New Hire Paperwork with every new hire, I go into detail about how this program works. I show a lot of passion and give examples about people that have been helped. The way I explain it leads 95% of New Hires to enroll. Out of all the 220 Team Members that were hired at the job fair, about 210 people signed up for it. Supporting Whole Planet Foundation is “helping people help themselves.” Whole Foods Market Team members are wonderful and are huge supporters of the foundation and for this we thank you all.
“I used to be a Payroll Benefits Specialist Back-up/In Store Educator and I have a lot of background information on the foundation. When Alomgir Hossain, the country director for Grameen Guatemala, came to the Regional Office in the Southern Pacific Region, I got a chance to meet him.
“Whole Planet Foundation gives us a venue to responsibly and proactively help people get out of poverty, instead of just giving them a handout. It’s a proven and effective program that we can participate in and our Team Members have a great track-record of supporting this worthy cause.”
Justin was one of the Team Members who travelled to India to participate in the 2012 Whole Foods Market Team Member Volunteer trip where they built a hygiene station (bathroom and running water) for a children's home in Tamil Nadu, visited a Whole Planet Foundation-supported microlending project, a cashew production facility in Kerala, and took Indian cuisine cooking classes. When reflecting on the experience, Justin says, "Supporting Whole Planet Foundation has given new meaning to the value of relationships and experiences in my life. I am inspired by the change we can make happen by empowering those who deserve uplifting."
"I’ve been blessed with so much that I feel a responsibility to share what I have with others. Giving to the Whole Planet Foundation is a way for me to do that. Even a small amount of money can make a big difference in someone’s life. I also provide a bi-weekly report detailing the number of TMs contributing to the program and I get so excited to see the numbers growing from week to week. It’s amazing to me to think we have over twelve thousand TMs giving to help others!"
Kim Head is Senior Financial Analyst on the Team Member Services Financial Analysis & Reporting Team at our Global offices in Austin Texas.
Layne is an Associate Store Team Leader at the Sonoma Whole Foods Market and he gives through every paycheck because “ I feel it really is a good way to support those in need. Love it and wish I could give more!”
"I am absolutely inspired by Whole Planet Foundation. It’s incredibly wonderful that our company gives team members the opportunity to be directly involved in a program the reveals the heart of Whole Foods Market and speaks for the integrity and strength of our humanity. The foundation awakens my compassion and renews my faith in a democracy that creates joy and hope for others as well as ourselves. And it’s so easy to be involved!
My work last summer with the kids in Pena Blanca on the Team Member Volunteer Program was an incredibly rewarding experience. I went there to teach the kids, but I was really the student, a student of humanity and I learned a lot from them. So much so that I’ve been inspired to create similar programs for our kids in the Pittsburgh community."
"It was important for me to educate the team members about Whole Planet Foundation so that they would really connect to the understanding that Whole Foods Market is more than just a really great grocery store. As usual, the team members in Portland didn't disappoint and came through like the rock stars that we are!"
Maryel Tomter is the In Store Educator at the Portland store in Maine.
Matthew says "I work for Whole Foods Market in Devon, PA. Once I learned about what Whole Planet Foundation was last year, I made a commitment to providing as much support and education about the program as possible. As a cashier, my goal was to provide the education and inspiration guests needed to make an informed decision. I wasn't happy just with that though, so I decided to use the skills I had in order to help out.
That skill was Bicycling. I borrowed a stationary trainer from a local Bike Shop sympathetic to WPF, and I set it up in the middle of our produce department. At 8 am on the dot, I started spinning my legs. 10 hours later, after talking about the program and its benefactors, I had raised $777 and gone 151 miles (in place).
Can I just relate to you how amazing it was for me, that just for riding my bike for an extended period of time, I was able to raise over 5 loans (each first loan in the developing world is $164 on average)? I was able to help entire families, help build communities that could actually now trade, and motivate our shoppers through education and passion. It was an incredible experience, and I cannot wait to do it again this year! While I've stepped up into a Supervisor role and won't get as much one on one with our customers on the front end, I intend to get the whole Customer Service Team excited about WPF and how it helps!
On March 10, 2013, I will be doing it all over again, only this time I've made the commitment of riding open to close, a total of 13 hours. I'm even more prepared this year due to reading "Banker to the Poor" by Professor Yunus himself. I wanted to share my story with you out of my excitement of the upcoming drive! I wish only the best for Whole Planet Foundation, and I am grateful that it exists, and I'm thankful that it gave me an opportunity to help in a way that I could!"
“I’m inspired by the integrity, determination, hard work and the generosity of the women who receive the micro-loans.
Their main focus is family and community. These are amazing, resilient women who make such a positive impact on others.”
"What hooked me into Whole Planet Foundation is the microcredit client inspired recipes our Team Member ambassadors have brought back from their travels. Recipes like Ethiopian Chickpea Stew and Pollo en Jocon from Guatemala give us a way to connect with people a world away through the common language of food. When I sit down to a bowl of spicy Guatemalan Chicken Stew it makes me think about people in those communities sitting down to the same meal. It’s like we’re sharing a dinner table even though we’re miles apart."
Miguel has helped raise the Whole Foods Market Wheaton store team member participation rate in giving through payroll deduction to WPF from 14% to 47% since October. He has on three separate occasions sold WPF Calendars while supporting Mrs. Meyers and Simply Orange, vendors who gave $25,000 each to fund microlending programs as part of the Poverty is Unnecessary Fund. A world traveler, Miguel cares deeply about poverty on our planet and works diligently to help the WPF help others. Thank you Miguel!
Mona Rodriguez is an extraordinary person full of compassion and energy. She has done a series of awareness events about Whole Planet Foundation since she returned from the Team Member Volunteer trip to Costa Rica. A favorite is the “Pumpkin project” where she and her fellow Team Members at Cedar Center painted pumpkins to be sold in her store with all of the proceeds going to Whole Planet Foundation. Check out the pumpkins!
Here is what she has to say about her experiences on the Team Member Volunteer program when she went to Costa Rica for a month through Whole Foods Market:
“Whole Planet Foundation is an absolutely amazing organization. Being in Costa Rica opened my eyes to how much some of us take for granted. The ability to meet the wonderful women who benefit from the microloans was a life changing experience. Having the ability to make a difference by planting 600 trees and teaching English has taught my family and I that it is not only okay to sacrifice time and money to help others, it is the most awarding gift anyone can have!”
Thank you Mona!
Pata is a Whole Foods Market Team Member Volunteer who spent 30 days in Costa Rica rescuing sea turtles, visiting EARTH University and meeting microcredit clients of Grameen Cost Rica, a WPF partner. Here is what Pata has to say about WPF and the WFM Team Member Volunteer Program "My passion for WPF will always stand. I took a trip with amazing Whole Foods Market team members to Costa Rice to support poverty alleviation in the global community where WFM products, and I did share most of my story with regional leadership, and with our stores. I was able convince some of our team members to volunteer too and they were really amazed when they came back from their trip." Team members like Pata are what makes Whole Foods Market a wonderful place to work. Thank you Pata!
Sandra is an Inventory Control Specialist at the Huntingdon Beach Whole Foods Market and both she and her husband work for WFM. She gives to Whole Planet Foundation through payroll deduction because "I grew up in Guatemala and even though my parents and my family took care of my needs and ensured that I had a good education, I saw a lot of children that did not have the same privileges… Most of them lack the basic needs of food, clean water, shelter, clothing and shoes needed to survive. I know that what I contribute may not make a huge impact, but if it can make a little difference in a person’s life, why not do it. God has been so generous to me in so many ways so I want give back to those in need."
Traci Rong is a natural for motivating people to action which is how she has earned her place on the team member spotlight. She is inquisitive and tenacious and delights in sharing her contagious enthusiasm for Whole Planet Foundation with team members as an In Store Educator at the Walnut Creek store in Northern California. Her team members are steadily getting more and more involved with 38% of team members now generously contributing through payroll deduction every two weeks.
For Valentine’s Day she and the floral team traded Whole Trade Guarantee roses with students at a local high school for a contribution to fund microcredit through Whole Planet Foundation. They attached a Whole Planet Foundation funded microcredit loan recipient's profile to each rose to raise awareness amongst the young people. Awareness is a key to action and a great way to engage the students in the small actions that add up to big changes.
Traci says “Most people aren’t poor because they’re inherently lazy, they lack resources. Yunus’ model for micro-finance as a vehicle to empower people to lift themselves up is brilliant.”
Thank you Traci for awakening the spirit of giving and empowerment in your store and everywhere you go.
"I donate to the Whole Planet Foundation because I want to help support people in developing countries, especially the women who are working to support their families."
"Just to know that someone in need will have that help there is great inspiration in itself!"
Dajuan Brown is a Customer Service Associate Team Leader at the Walnut Creek store in Northern California.
“It’s less than a cup of coffee, and I actually make a difference in someone’s life.”
“I’ve volunteered for the Peace Corps before, but now that I have kids and work full-time, it’s hard to find the time to contribute to worthy charities. Giving to Whole Planet Foundation is one way I can stay connected to the world.”
Julie Finn and Stephanie Voss are team members at the Framingham store in Massachusetts.
Read what team member volunteer Kerry Page has to say about her adventure in Guatemala and how she leveraged her trip and her souvenir purchases into a cycle of awareness and money raising for Whole Planet Foundation that keeps giving and giving and giving…. Thank you Kerry!
“Going to Guatemala meant so much to me because it put real people and real faces on the Whole Planet Foundation mission. My perspective completely changed when I looked in the eyes of those women borrowers- what challenges they face everyday and how hard their life is. They are beautiful, amazing women with a lot on their shoulders to carry and they just need that little loan to rise above the challenges of their society and their life. I felt a responsibility to them and I knew the best way I could assist them is by making team members aware of the paycheck contribution program and the team member volunteer program. Not every team member can do the volunteer part, but every team member has the opportunity to be a part of the paycheck contribution program. The $1 minimum that we can give out of our paycheck is so small, we won’t miss it- but it is powerful when every team member in a store does it because that $1 collectively turns into $166 dollars, enough for an average loan for a women, or 2 loans for 2 women, etc. The effects of that $1 are even more far reaching because it touches her family, her children, and even the generations to come. I hope that through my wonderful Guatemala experience and my pictures that I can touch the hearts of our team members who can touch all the lives of the borrowers and their families.
I took $166 dollars that my Pikes Peak team members donated to me in an all store meeting and I used that money to buy souvenirs directly from our borrowers which was a suitcase full- so I gave most of the clothes I brought with me on the trip to the teachers in the Spanish school so that I would have a suitcase to bring back the souvenirs. I have been raffling off those souvenirs to team members that have contributed through the paycheck program, and to the public if they make a donation to WPF during the presentations.” Kerry Page
“It feels so great to work for a company that genuinely supports our communities on both a local and global level. Whole Planet Foundation truly embodies Whole Foods Market’s core values; I am so proud of what we’ve been able to accomplish.”
Kristen Kaza is the Marketing Specialist in our Evanston North Store in Illinois.
"Travelling in Africa and Central America, I saw that people in developing countries have incredible passion and entrepreneurial spirit. I love supporting Whole Planet Foundation because it empowers people in less-developed countries to develop their own solutions to poverty. Recipients of micro-loans can start businesses that appeal to their own unique talents, serve a real need in their community and often preserve invaluable artisanal wisdom. Working with Whole Foods Market, I feel so blessed to have a livelihood that has a positive impact in my community, I want the same for people all over the world!"
Lauren McCutcheon is an In Store Educator at the Santa Cruz California store.
Global Headquarters
In her regular mission to secure the best services at the best price for Whole Foods Market, Leslie came up with the idea of asking our partners if they are interested in joining us in our mission to alleviate poverty through entrepreneurship. Premiere Global Services, a teleconference service provider to Whole Foods Market, said yes and committed to donating a % of their WFM sales of service to Whole Planet Foundation to fund microcrelending programs. Leslie's tireless effforts on behalf of team member happiness and fun are legendary but this takes the cake in originality and commitment to making a positive difference. Thank you Leslie and Premiere Global Services.
"If we can't physically do something to help, then this is what we need to do to help people change their lives."
Michelle is a Customer Service team member and Matt is a Prepared Foods team member at the Portland store in Maine.
"Why would you not want to be part of Whole Planet Foundation?”
“We may not have it all together, but together we have it all”
Doug Straub, the Receiver and Morghan Dill is the Team Member Awareness Group and Green Mission Store Representative at Colfax in Colorado.
“Whole Planet Foundation is transforming the lives of others and the shifting global awareness of poverty. For pennies a day, I am able to participate in a program that offers others the opportunity to break the cycle and create a life for themselves, full of choice and freedom. I have been fortunate to see first hand the work of the Whole Planet Foundation and I’m honored to be a part of the Whole Foods Market Family.”
Nikki Heil is the Store Marketing Specialist at the Sarasota store in Florida and a Whole Foods Market Team Member Volunteer who spent a month in Guatemala.
“I was blown away to learn that billions of people live on pennies a day. Through the Whole Planet Foundation, it is so easy to really make a difference in the lives of these women.” Nancy Seeno
"What little sacrifice I'm making by donating maybe a cup of coffee, is helping to change a persons whole life. It's worth giving up that cup of coffee."
Carl is a Prepared Foods team member in the Portland store in Maine.
The Arlington store in Virginia was number one in the Prosperity Campaign, raising $25,652 through the generous donations of our guests and team members. Customer service team members did a fantastic job of raising awareness. Arlington's top two cashiers raising money in the prosperity campaign are Fatiya, who raised $2,600 and Tsion who raised $2,200. “Our team members know how to share our stories and their personal experiences is what won the hearts and minds of our customers in supporting this worthy project,” said Victor Vasquez, Arlington Store Team Leader. Outgoing Arlington Store Team Leader, Jean-Michel Bartolo said of the caring and selfless Arlington community that “their generosity demonstrates their commitment to a global community and the mission of microlending.” Hooray for Arlington Customer Service team members! Thank you all for empowering so many individuals to lift themselves out of poverty, to the tune of $25,652.
It is beautiful how our customers and team members stepped up to the plate to empower individuals in emerging economies where we source product, by giving generously. Thank you all.
Philip Sansone, the President of Whole Planet Foundation and John Mackey, Chairman and CEO of Whole Foods Market and a strong supporter of Whole Planet Foundation, went to Arlington to personally thank the Arlington Customer Service team for their stupendous effort.
"I donate money from my paycheck to Whole Planet Foundation because I know that my money is actually going to the intended people. With many organizations today I am hesitant about giving my money because I don't necessarily trust that the money is actually being donated properly. My sister went on the first Team Member Volunteer trip to Costa Rica to work with endangered sea turtles and meet microcredit clients funded by the foundation. To hear first hand accounts of the efforts that Whole Planet Foundation is putting out there made me donate even more. I look forward to volunteering on a future trip so I can see how microlending is benefiting women around the world. It's yet another way that I can see how my contribution is helping people as it is intended to do."
Nikki Newman is a Concierge team member at the Lamar store in Austin Texas.
"I could either buy sushi or directly change someone's life........I'm changing someone's life." Shannon is a buyer for the Specialty Team at the Portland store in Maine.
Store Team Leader Cyn Leo and her team members Carl Johnson, Sue D’Arrigo, Edgar Mejia, Oscar Hernandez welcomed Joy Peterson, Internal Programs Coordinator, to Mill Valley as part of a 17 store awareness raising tour for Whole Planet Foundation in the Northern California Region. What a beautiful store and what great team members! Thank you all!
“I feel very passionate about Whole Planet Foundation. It helps underprivileged people which helps the entire world and builds camaraderie between all nations. I am very proud to be part of a company that is so proactive in doing the right thing."
Gus Tuomi is the In Store Educator for the Los Altos store in California.
“As soon as I found out I was able to deduct $10 a paycheck to WPF I did. Why? Well I read the information and realized that 3 lattes a pay period would provide a person with the ability to make it on their own. Start their own business, put food on their table for their family and community. It makes me feel good that my small amount of $10 a pay period brings security, independence, and wealth to people who would not have that option before. I donate because I can. “
Jennifer Jones is the Florida Regional Accountant
"This is an amazing opportunity that we are given....to donate to help change someones life and we are empowering women by doing it."
Katie is a Customer Service Team Member and Erin is a Customer Service Supervisor at the Portland store in Maine.
"This is a perfect example of how so little goes so far. If each team member in a store gives just a dollar a paycheck, collectively that can equal an entire loan for a woman. That one loan also has a positive effect on her family, village, and generations to come. There is no limit to that one dollar and how much it pays forward."
Kerry Page is the Payroll and Benefits Specialist at the New Center Point store in Colorado.
"It feels great knowing I am helping someone with a hand-up, as opposed to merely a hand-out.”
Traci Rong is the In-Store Educator for the Walnut Creek Store in our Northern California region.
"It doesn't take a lot to make a difference in someone's life."
Corey and Jen are Customer Service Team members at the Portland store in Maine.
"I enjoy helping people get their businesses started as much as I enjoy working for a company that would give them such a chance."
Jonathan McMurdo is a Customer Service team member at the Quarry store in San Antonio Texas.
"I donate to Whole Planet Foundation every month because it's a small effort that makes a big difference. Knowing that my money is going directly to women who are positively effecting their communities is rewarding and reinforces why I work for a company like Whole Foods Market. It's wonderful to know that there are efforts being made to change lives for the better and I am helping to make that happen."
Meg Mascarenas is a Floral Assistant Specialist at the Lamar store in Austin Texas.
“It seems like such a small thing…how can you not donate to something so wonderful?”
Michelle Peluso is the Marketing Assistant and Store Team Member Awareness Group Representative for the Paradise Valley Store in Arizona.
San Rafael TMs Bertha Maier and Akila Ramakrishnan were instrumental in the Prosperity Campaign in the San Rafael store in Northern California. Houray for all Customer Service team members who made the prosperity Campaign a huge success!
"I donate because I know the people are truly in need and will use it for what they need; to create a living for themselves and their family. Plus, it's a loan, so what we give not only helps one person, but over time as that person pays back their loan, that money will go on to the next person in need and creates a small cycle within the grand plan of ending poverty."
Falesha is a Concierge team member and the Team Member Awareness Group store representative for the Lamar store in Austin, Texas.
"We all do better when we all do better"
Katy, Shannon, Alan and Carlos are Bakery team members at the Portland store in Maine.
Pikes Peak
“I can’t believe how much so little can impact the lives of so many people.”
Rick Mickelson is a Team member at the Pikes Peak store in Colorado.
"For less than the cost of ONE cup of coffee a paycheck, I can make a huge difference in somebody’s life. Think what we could do if everybody donated!"
Heather Behymer is the Payroll and Benefits Specialist for the South Atlanta Bakehouse and South Seafood Distribution.
Pikes Peak
"You gotta love getting a paycheck that has already given to others."
Sarah is a Team Member at the Pikes Peak store in Colorado.
“It’s an amazing feeling to know that our team members are concerned about making a difference in the world and helping others.”
Helen Lee is a Whole Body team member in the Tannasbourne Store in Oregon which is in the Pacific Northwest region.
"It is amazing that we can give people a hand up instead of a hand out. By giving of ourselves we assist people by empowering them, instead of giving them charity.”
Tara Hughes is a Customer Service Team Leader at Kirby in Houston Texas.
"We are so fortunate to have so much, even in bad times.......how can I not."
Sean is a Prepared Foods team member at the Portland store in Maine.
"Having families, we are showing our kids that no matter how much or how little you give, in the end it all makes a huge difference in someone's life."
Becky is a Payroll and Benefits Backup and Melise is a team member at the Portland store in Maine.
"It's what I need to do because I can"
Ruth is a floral team member at the Portland store in Maine.
