We are a collective of advocates working to develop an equitable regional food system that values local farmers & entrepreneurs.
We launched the council in April, 2018 with support from Be Healthy Berrien and the Michigan Local Food Council Network. The council works in Southwest Michigan, including Berrien, Cass, and Van Buren Counties.
Our current work is focused on three main areas:
- Joy for our Food
- Abundance and Fairness for our Food
- Growth of Infrastructure for our Food
Current Council Members
Dan Crimmins – Owner/Grower, Lucky Berry Farm
Dawn Marie Smith (Staff) – Director of Be Healthy Berrien
Chris Flood – Community Health, Bronson Wellness Center
Mariel Borgmam – Community Food System Educator, MSU-Extension
Chioma Ejiofor – Special Health Projects Coordinator, Berrien County Health Department
Heather Cole (Secretary) – Director of Advocacy and Public Innovation, United Way of Southwest Michigan
John Egelhaaf (Chair)- Executive Director, Southwest Michigan Planning Commission
Hillary Greenwood – Director, Advisory Services, Practice Greenhealth
Aaron Molter – Owner/Grower, Molter Family Orchards
Cathi Rogers –
Heather Rudnik – Registered Dietitian, Spectrum Health Lakeland
Gary Wood (Vice-Chair) – Community Advocate
Open Council Seats
We’re currently looking for diverse leaders to join the Council from the following areas:
- Local Government/Elected Officials
- Grocery/Food Retail
- Food Waste Management
- K-12 Food Service
If you are interested in joining this work, please CONTACT US