Lecture Description
Coffee-growing communities face extraordinary challenges, from climate change and food insecurity to economic instability and lack of public services. Addressing these complexities requires innovative and holistic solutions—and that’s where collaboration between nonprofits and the coffee industry shines.
This panel brings together leaders from Food 4 Farmers, Grounds for Health, and Equal Origins to explore what makes community support initiatives successful. Through real-world examples, we’ll discuss how projects that focus on the broader context of coffee farmers’ lives—not just coffee production—can drive lasting change. Panelists will share key steps to cultivating meaningful impact, highlight the critical role the coffee industry can play as an ally, and demonstrate how our collective work supports coffee-growing communities facing urgent threats.
Attendees will leave with actionable insights into how the coffee community can support and scale impactful programs, ensuring a sustainable future for coffee and the farmers who grow it. Whether you’re a roasting company, coffee producer, or nonprofit professional, this panel offers a chance to learn, collaborate, and deepen your commitment to building resilience in coffee-growing regions. Together, we can harness the power of the coffee industry as a force for good.
Date: April 25, 2025
Time: 11:30am - 12:30pm
Location: Room 352DEF
Category: Sustainability
Access: This lecture is free to attend with a Specialty Coffee Expo entry badge. Register to attend Specialty Coffee Expo here.
Please note that lecture sessions are open on a first-come, first-served basis. Early arrival is highly recommended to secure your seat.
Panelists
This panel brings together leaders with decades of experience addressing food security, gender equity, health, and sustainability in coffee-growing communities. Their combined expertise offers attendees actionable insights into building resilient, inclusive, and thriving communities.
Marcela Pino
Co-Founder, Food 4 Farmers
Marcela has over 20 years of experience designing programs that empower coffee farmers through food security and economic diversification. Her expertise in agroecology and participatory development provides a holistic approach to supporting farming families.
Kyle Engleman
Executive Director, Grounds for Health
Kyle brings a global perspective on health equity in coffee communities. Her background in designing and evaluating rural healthcare programs demonstrates the importance of integrating health solutions into community development.
Kimberly Easson
Founder and CEO, Equal Origins
Kimberly’s 30+ years in sustainable trade and gender equity make her a leading voice in building inclusive supply chains. Her work emphasizes partnerships that address the social and economic challenges facing coffee farmers, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Together, these panelists represent a diverse range of perspectives and practical expertise, offering strategies for coffee professionals to support impactful, community-driven initiatives.