A Message from our Founder | June 2024

Written by La Soupe’s Founder, Suzy DeYoung

Yesterday, as I sat down to write this month’s newsletter, I sent a rough draft to our Chief of Philanthropy, Jackie Bouvette, whose honest feedback I needed and trust. She replied with, “It is simply amazing how many have linked arms with La Soupe.” That line pushed my mind into an entirely different direction, and it really caused me to pause and reflect.

The “linked arms” in our operation is essential.

The level of complexity on a purely operational level at La Soupe can be mind blowing. (Schedule a tour and see for yourself!) Follow the life of a donated product from start to finish and one can see how many hands and operational touch points it goes through before it arrives into someone's home or nourishes individuals at a local shelter. Sometimes the amount of a certain product is overwhelming, like 46,000 pounds of "near end of life” onions, a gaylord of fresh basil, or a pallet of brussel sprouts. To ensure we stay true to our mission of keeping perfectly good food from going into a landfill, we must have many options to choose from.  

We can directly donate the product to food pantries in its original state or utilize it to its full potential by transforming it into a soupe or meal. The delicate balance of when/where/which delivery method is “a la minute” – that is kitchen speak for last-minute decisions. We have set up so many options but the bottom line is our team in shipping and receiving make quick, mindful decisions every minute of every day. La Soupe has 290 partners in our rescue/share network. Establishing and maintaining relationships with these partners has been the key to our success as our network continues to grow. These partners appreciate our adaptability which ensures that the product we send will be helpful, not a burden.

We have also “linked arms'' with new and exciting partners. Community partners have done a phenomenal job of hosting events that have raised funds for us and shared the mission of La Soupe with their networks. Business partners have stepped up to lend their talent for work that impacts our bottom line and streamlines production. Volunteers have jumped in with both feet to ensure we are maximizing our ability to execute our mission. We are eternally grateful for the way people keep showing up for us and spreading our message with others.

Probably our most visible “linked arm” recently has been with the Joe Burrow Foundation. Their belief in the work we do, the model we have created, and their financial commitment along with a brand new refrigerated van, has helped us distribute to their hometown of Athens. As we continue to learn about the needs of rural Ohio, we know that “linked arms” with both government and private funding is crucial for its success.

We joined and  celebrated with our Inspire cohort graduates at the Governor's Residence in Columbus. Our own Katie Funk, Inspire & Innovation Director,  in partnership with Nora Spitznogle of Second Helpings in Indianapolis has led three different nonprofits in duplicating our model in their Ohio cities. We were challenged by the Governor in 2020 to replicate our model, and Katie has done a phenomenal job, sharing the how/what/when/where of La Soupe. I know everyone enjoyed taking a tour of the gardens with Fran DeWine after enjoying  a 100% rescued lunch provided by La Soupe and the cohort. We know that our Governor will continue to help us grow our network within the state of Ohio. These very strategic and meaningful partnerships we have built is what is the not-so-secret sauce to our overwhelming success in saving more food so others may eat.

The visual of  the “linked arms” had me reflect on another incredible event I attended this month. The Holocaust and Humanity Center’s UPSTANDER award event is simply the most inspiring  event I attended this year. I nominated a young man I befriended,  Lamonte Ragan, after working with him since the first of the year. You can read his story here. 

 After reading this article, La Soupe “linked arms'' with Lamonte and began offering healthy snacks and drinks for the kids of the West End. He is a true foot soldier doing the hard work, connecting with many kids and mentoring them in academics and sports, fueled by his passion. Lamonte took home the UPSTANDER award for his leadership with the WEEROYALS. I cried as I watched this young man whose dedication, commitment, and genuine concern to be part of a solution to give these kids stability. He was born into the same situation, but through the hard work of his mother he received an education at Clark Montessori and his world opened up. Lamonte does not have the “linked arms”of support that La Soupe has. He has the passion, the grit and determination to be a change maker. He needs structure and business coaching so he can continue on his path. If anyone in our network has time, experience, and a desire to build a nonprofit from the ground up (he has a 501c3), or if you’re  looking for a different kind of volunteer, please reach out to me so I can connect you. It would be wonderful to watch Lamonte receive the “linked arms'' of support that we have been blessed with.

And lastly, a funny story from the incredible Joe Burrow Foundation Fundraiser this year.  As I wandered through the tent, noshing on incredible food by the newly launched Jeff Ruby Catering division, there was a tap on my shoulder. I turned and was greeted with “Hi Suzy, it’s Sam Hubbard, remember me?” I absolutely cracked up and said, “Seriously Sam, aren’t you past needing to introduce yourself in Cincinnati?”  He gave me a hug and thanked me for the work we are doing with his foundation  and his Hubbard Cupboard Program. Now those are some seriously HUGE arms to be linked with!

So thank you to EVERYONE who has chosen to “link arms” with us. We see you, we appreciate you, and we are humbled and grateful.