The Local Food Economy Leadership award recognizes Greater Philadelphia’s food system leaders who have successfully leveraged collaborations with other stakeholders to create a more sustainable food system, and have garnered national attention, making this region a leader in local food system efforts.

This award is the first part of a new technical and financial assistance program DVRPC is creating in partnership with the William Penn Foundation. This larger program seeks to build capacity within and expand recognition of Greater Philadelphia’s emerging local food economy.

Jerry Naples, a Principal here at REPSG, accepted this award on behalf of his efforts with Greensgrow's Philadelphia Project.

Front row: Ann Karlen (Fair Food) and Barry Seymour (DVRPC); Back row: Rachel Millenbach (Weavers Way Community Programs), David Sillers (Weavers Way Community Partnerships), Bob Noble (Weavers Way Cooperative Association), Glenn Bergman (Weavers Way Cooperative Association), John Weidman (The Food Trust), Patty Hasson (Greensgrow Philadelphia Project), Jerry Naples, Jr (REPSG), Miriam Manon (The Food Trust), and the Honorable Edwin (Ted) Erickson, PA State Senate, 26th District, recipient of DVRPC’s 2009 Regional Leader Award.