02/05/2024
Duskie Estes Announces Planned Departure as Executive Director of Farm to Pantry
After nearly 4 years of dedicated service, Duskie Estes has made the heartfelt decision to step down from her role, effective February 29, 2024. Estes leaves behind a legacy of transformative accomplishments during her tenure. Under Duskie's leadership, Farm to Pantry experienced almost unimaginable growth: gleans were expanded from less than 100 per year to an impressive 1,200 and properties went from 40 glean sites in 2019 to over 350 in 2023. The organization's impact skyrocketed with food donations escalating from 75,000 pounds in 2019 to an astounding 400,000 pounds annually for the past four years. Estes' unwavering dedication and ceaseless energy pushed the boundaries of what a small nonprofit with only a handful of employees can accomplish; she has ensured that MORE of Sonoma County's abundance was able to reach MORE families in need.
Estes reflected on her time stating, "Over the past four years, I have been inspired by the commitment of our volunteer gleaners to give of themselves and the willingness of our local growers and farmers to share their bounty-- so that others can eat good food. It has been a privilege to see kids discovering and loving nutritious produce and to have my 'office' be beautiful Sonoma County. Fighting food injustice has always been a part of who I am and what I do. As I begin a new chapter, it will remain part of my core, only now, I will be supporting from the sidelines as a coach and as the LOUDEST cheerleader for food justice you ever heard! I am grateful for being a part of this mighty collective effort to ensure no one goes hungry when we are surrounded by abundance."
Farm to Pantry expresses deep gratitude for Duskie's passionate leadership and outstanding contributions, and the Board of Directors and staff wish her the very best in future endeavors. Farm to Pantry will continue to collaborate with Duskie as they actualize their mission to bring together our communities to end food injustice.
