Last week, Summit Environmental Solutions had the honor of being a sponsor for this year’s Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank Community Collab Workshop. It’s an annual event we always look forward to, and this year’s theme, “Strengthening Our Roots: The Connection Between Farm and Table,” really hit home for us.
We’ve proudly supported this event for the past three years. Each time, we’re reminded how much power there is in bringing people together.
Why We Get Involved
This isn’t just a professional partnership. We have family ties to the Food Bank and deep roots in the Fredericksburg community. As a local business, we want to be part of real, local solutions. Whether we’re helping homeowners with pest control, roof repairs, or other services, our mission is all about providing genuine assistance to our community.
Highlights from the Workshop
The day started with opening remarks from Dan Maher, CEO of the Food Bank. He spoke about staying “neighbor-focused” through difficult times. One metaphor stood out. He said planes need headwinds to lift off. In the same way, communities grow stronger when we face challenges together. His words were inspiring and set the tone for everything that followed.
Candice Armstrong, the keynote speaker from Virginia Community Food Connections, spoke about making fresh food accessible. Through the Virginia Fresh Match program, people using SNAP, EBT, or WIC benefits can double their dollars at farmers markets. She reminded us that fresh food isn’t a luxury. It’s something everyone deserves.
The Zoe Freedom Center gave a powerful Narcan demonstration and provided free kits to all attendees. It was a strong reminder that food access and public health go hand in hand.
A Moment That Stuck With Us
Near the end of the workshop, Mischelle and Latoya from the Food Bank called a group of volunteer drivers to the stage. These drivers delivered more than 5 million pounds of food in the last year. It was a moving moment, filled with gratitude, and reminded everyone in the room why this work matters.
Our Role in the Day
Summit Environmental Solutions was proud to be a sponsor and to connect with attendees as a vendor. While we didn’t present, we were glad to be part of the conversation. Events like this help us learn, grow, and support the community beyond the services we provide.
“We’re all about helping people feel safe, secure, and supported in their homes,” said Isabelle Magalis, Digital Marketing Specialist at SES. “The Food Bank does that in their own way, and we’re proud to stand beside them.”
Vendor Shoutouts
We also want to recognize the other fantastic organizations that participated:
- RAHD – Spotsylvania Health Department
- Fredericksburg DSS
- Virginia Cooperative Extension
- Virginia Credit Union
- Pinnacle Media
- Zoe Freedom Center
- Honor Bound Fit
- Handshake In Heels
Learn More and Stay Connected
To learn more about the work of the Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank, visit their website and explore how you can get involved. You can also view highlights from the event on our Facebook page.
We’re thankful to be part of a community that shows up and supports one another. We’ll keep doing our part, every step of the way.
