The Feed

Kyle Endres, Executive Director of We Don’t Waste, shares his insights on leadership, community building, and the importance of open-mindedness in running a nonprofit organization.

We sat down with Kyle Endres, the Executive Director of We Don’t Waste, to learn more about his leadership and experience in taking over the nonprofit organization over the past year. From economic hurdles to political uncertainty, working in the nonprofit sector often means navigating challenges beyond the organization’s control. Learning to manage these ups and downs is an essential skill for any leader in the field. Hear from Kyle on his experience, advice, and leadership:

Tell us a little bit about what led you to We Don’t Waste:

Kyle: I started at We Don’t Waste in 2017 in search of furthering my own experience in nonprofit development. I attended CSU and got my undergraduate degree in journalism. Before coming to We Don’t Waste, I spent some time working in Peru teaching English, then came back to Denver and went into helping Colorado Meal Services and Metro Caring with community outreach and development/fundraising. 

How did the opportunity to step into the Executive Director Role come about? 

Kyle: Well, I had been working at We Don’t Waste for around seven years doing development, Arlan was looking to retire sometime during the Summer and he wanted to get us into the new building and kind of get all that squared away. At the beginning of last year, Arlan set his date, which was June 30, 2024. At that point, the board, who had known this was coming, started their search, and I was fortunate to be the one they picked. 

Were you nervous to step into a leadership position? Did you feel ready? 

Kyle: I think I was ready. I had the benefit of being here and seeing the growth. Just for context, when I started back in 2017 I was employee number six, and now we’re at 27. I was just with the organization through kind of a formative time, and so from that perspective, I felt like I was ready. I knew the organization, I knew the team, I knew the donors.

I think the transition was very successful. Anytime you have a founder who was the face of the organization, it’s a big shift, right? It’s not just kind of your normal executive transition, because you have this founder who’s been here for so long and was so kind of synonymous with We Don’t Waste. But again, I feel like I had a leg up on all that. I’ve been part of so many decisions that we made, and from that perspective, it felt as kind of natural and smooth as it could be. But, you know, I’m learning stuff every day, there’s a whole side of the organization that I wasn’t intimately involved in because I was so focused on the development and fundraising side.

How do you manage imposter syndrome as someone who’s been in this role for almost a year, and like, stepping into it, was it harder to, kind of like quiet that part of your brain down?

Kyle: I think it’s always there a little bit, but I really lean on my team. I know I don’t know everything.  I think, even with the big decisions, the hard decisions, having the right process and talking it through and not making a knee jerk reaction, is key. You’re going to come across decisions that nobody’s dealt with before. But again, I think if you can talk it through and kind of come to a consensus on what is the best decision or the best way forward and lean on other people’s experience and expertise, you can kind of beat back that imposter syndrome a little.

How would you describe your leadership style, and how do you think it has evolved since stepping into executive director?

Kyle: I like to think I’m collaborative. Knowing that I don’t have to have all the answers, which kind of comes back to what we were talking about before. I don’t need to know the perfect answer to every question.  Right now, we’re trying to decide if we’re gonna do a new roof for solar panels. I’m not an expert on this stuff, I don’t have solar at home. I don’t know anything about this, but I’m gonna take advantage of the resources that I have to find out the right answer. You can’t know everything about everything. So again, just bringing in the right people to help you, and sometimes that’s within the organization, sometimes that’s from outside the organization, even if I have a vision for how I think something should go, hearing out other people and trying to get either their buy-in or their pushback. I think it’s all about the process of learning and hearing new ideas before you make that final decision. 

What lessons did you learn from Arlan’s leadership? What are you carrying forward, or what are you doing differently?

Kyle: I think Arlan is great at articulating his vision, and I want to do that more. We have different personalities, I can be more reserved and perhaps quiet. In many cases, that’s good, but in some cases, you need to just be out there and tell people the vision. I think I have taken a lot from him, and I’ve learned a lot from him over the years.

 However, we’re very different generations, and I am trying to bring some of my experience and generational differences to work experiences. Like how do older and younger generations work together? How do they operate? How do you navigate hybrid work or sick policy? I think, trying to bring a different perspective to some of that stuff, and again, leaning on the team and trying to get feedback before kind of making a decision.

What piece of advice would you give someone stepping into a leadership role for the first time?

Kyle: Talk to as many people as you can and learn as much as you can from them. Because again, even for me, having been here and doing development for a long time, I was still putting on a new hat. I wanted to hear everyone’s thoughts on ideas, policies, and new projects, and the same thing for the people that I hadn’t worked as closely with in the past in terms of things like operations or programs. I think just talking to as many people as you can, getting as much feedback as you can, being open to that feedback, and trying to give people opportunities. 

I think the open door policy is something that’s used a lot, I hope that people, like, really, can come in and talk to you about anything. It could be something personal, it could be something related to their work. 

How do you keep your team motivated?

Kyle: We have this kind of built-in bonus when it comes to motivation, because our team is genuinely passionate about what we do and the mission we’re working toward. But you can’t just rely on that and assume it’s enough. So, we’ve been intentional about improving things like our benefits package and pay structures.

That said, a lot of it really comes back to collaboration and fostering a strong sense of community. Studies show that people don’t usually leave just because of pay. That can be part of it, sure, but often it’s about culture or the quality of supervision.

So we focus on creating a collaborative environment where people feel heard, where they have real autonomy over their roles. They’re not being micromanaged, and I think that makes a huge difference. The thing about culture is, it’s not just one thing, it’s all these pieces working together. That’s what shapes the experience and helps with retention.

And above all, we try to stay open to feedback. We might not be able to act on everything, but we’re always willing to have the conversation.

What impact do you hope to leave, not on just the organization, but the people within it?

Kyle: I just hope that people feel for however long they work here, that they have made a difference, and that the organization positioned them to do that. So it’s not really about my impact, it’s about our impact, while I’m involved and after. You hope that some of the stuff you implement gets continued, you know, for the foreseeable future, or improved upon. 

Looking back, what advice would you give to your 25-year-old self?

Kyle:  I took a job, won’t say which one, that paid less because it offered something I really wanted to learn. If you can afford to, be open to opportunities like that. Look for roles that might not offer big short-term rewards but can lead to long-term growth.

When I transitioned into a development role, it completely changed the trajectory of my career. So, my advice would be: don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone if it’s something you’re curious about or feel called to do.

For me, I wanted to move forward in the nonprofit world and eventually take on leadership roles. I knew gaining development experience would be key to that. I was in a position where I could sacrifice a little in the short term, and it absolutely paid off in the long run.

So to my 25-year-old self, I’d just say: don’t hesitate. Take the risks that might set you up for something greater down the line.

UPDATE 4/29/25: The House passed legislation sponsored by Representative Lorena García that would refer two ballot measures to Colorado voters regarding the continuation of the Healthy School Meals for All program. HB25-1274 passed by a vote of 40-22.

House Bill 1274, recently passed by the Colorado House this April, was introduced by the General Assembly to strengthen and expand funding for the state’s Healthy School Meals for All program, ensuring more students have access to nutritious, no-cost meals. This initiative, established following the voter-approved Proposition FF in 2022, provides free, nutritious meals to all public school students. The bill proposes two ballot measures for the November 2025 election to address funding challenges and enhance program sustainability.

Broken up into three ballot measures, HB-1274 sets out to reform how excess revenue is handled for high-income earners and tax deductions:

Ballot Measure 1: Retention of Excess Revenue

The first measure seeks voter approval to allow the state to retain $26.3 million in revenue that exceeds the estimates provided in the Proposition FF ballot information booklet. Under the Taxpayer’s Bill of Rights (TABOR), such excess revenue would typically be refunded. If approved, the state would maintain current income tax deduction limits for high-income earners, ensuring continued funding for the meal program. If rejected, the state would refund the $26.3 million to individuals with federal taxable incomes of $300,000 or more who claimed significant deductions, and the deduction limits would be adjusted accordingly.

Ballot Measure 2: Additional Funding Through Tax Deduction Adjustments

The second measure proposes increasing state revenue by $95 million annually by further limiting income tax deductions for individuals earning $300,000 or more. The standard and itemized deduction limits would be reduced to $1,000 for single filers and $2,000 for joint filers. The additional revenue would be allocated to the Healthy School Meals for All program, supporting its expansion and sustainability. If voters reject this measure, the proposed deduction limits would not be implemented.

Beyond funding adjustments, HB25-1274 includes provisions to enhance the meal program’s effectiveness and community involvement:

Local Food Purchasing Grants: Modifications to grant distribution aim to support small and medium-sized farms and ranches, promoting the use of Colorado-grown, raised, or processed products in school meals.

Advisory Committees: The bill encourages the formation of advisory committees comprising students and parents to provide input on meal selections, ensuring cultural relevance and appeal.

Wage Increases for Food Service Workers: Funds may be allocated to increase wages or provide stipends for school food service employees directly involved in meal preparation and service.

Technical Assistance and Education Grants: Additional grants would support training and education related to local food procurement and meal preparation.

Another successful Food Waste Prevention Week has come and gone! We hope you took some time to join our mission of being #FoodWasteHeros, but just in case you didn’t see, were unplugging or busy this week. . .here’s what you missed. 

Monday kicked off our Food Waste Prevention Week with a quick quiz that tested you on your food waste knowledge. “Eat or Toss?” tests your abilities to recognize food that has gone bad vs. food that may just be a little… ugly. When the aesthetics of our food and life trump the actual value of nutrition and hunger, we can lose sight of the impacts of food waste. Keep testing your knowledge with more quizzes on EatOrToss.com, and follow @eatortoss on Instagram!

Tuesday, we took to social media and shared the importance of meal prepping and meal planning in reducing household food waste. Overstimulating food needs is one of the leading causes of household food waste, but you can use the Meal Planning Generator on savethefood.com/guestimator to reduce event and family meal waste! 

Thursday brought us some freezer and fridge storage tips to ensure your food can stay as fresh as possible for as long as possible! By freezing your leftovers, you not only ensure the longevity of your food but also ease the stress on weekly dinner plans. Organizing your shelves to prioritize leftovers and perishables first, such as putting your fresh fruit and veggies on the middle shelf in view instead of the crisper drawer, you can help prevent your food getting sucked into the void of the fridge and forgotten!

Every April, Food Waste Prevention Week is an encouragement and reminder for each of us to do our best to prevent household food waste. Through taking small steps and incorporating better habits into your shopping and cooking routine, food waste prevention will be a breeze! 

Want to track your initiatives and actions in preventing food waste? Use our Food Waste Prevention Week Scorecard to see how many points you can accumulate. Tally up your score and share it to your social media with the hashtag #FoodPreventionWeek, snap a photo and tag us on Instagram or TikTok @wedontwaste! Let’s continue to work together to make a dent in the 40% of wasted food!

“You may have heard the phrase, ‘Solidarity, not charity’ before. Usually, this phrase is used to describe the concept of mutual aid. From schools to neighborhoods, communities are coming together to support one another. What exactly is a mutual aid group, and how does it differ from coalitions and nonprofits?

Coalitions are defined as “a group formed of different organizations or people who agree to act together, usually temporarily, to achieve something,” according to Cambridge University. Often coalitions are composed of governing bodies or existing organizations, such as nonprofits, who join forces to further community outreach and impact. 

On the other hand, mutual aid is a form of political participation in which individuals take responsibility for caring for one another. Mutual aid implies a practice tied to acts of solidarity and a desire to overcome structural injustice through social transformation and action. Mutual aid has the potential to fulfill basic survival needs including food, health care, shelter, and social connection through grassroots and local emergency responses. 

The importance of community-led groups can be overshadowed by larger organizations operating in a community, but they should not be forgotten or mistaken as less-impactful.. Historically, disasters such as hurricanes, wildfires, or pandemics, expose the inequitable power structures within the U.S. Often, these inequalities reflect systems of oppression and social and cultural inequalities. Because of this, many low-income and vulnerable communities are disproportionately affected by emergencies. 

Mutual aid organizations help bridge the gap between access to government aid and immediate response and support to underserved communities. When disasters occur, government and federal aid responses tend to be delayed or even inadequate for some communities, like individuals who are ineligible for federal emergency management assistance. 

Mutual aid groups have been a part of the activist toolbelt for centuries: Take labor unions for example. Labor unions emerged during the early 1900s due to a lack of workers’ rights during the Industrial Revolution. Dangerous work conditions, low pay, and child labor all inspired workers and community members to demand changes from business owners, leading to the establishment of minimum wage and the illegality of child labor. 

Furthermore, in the 1950s, Indigenous people developed community centers to protect native resources and to advocate for Indigenous rights after the federal government terminated the sovereign nation designation of more than 100 nations. Now, mutual aid groups and coalitions have become ever more important in supporting and feeding our communities. 

One of the greatest strengths of mutual aid is its flexibility. These organizations empower community members to contribute their skills and ideas, ensuring that support is tailored to the unique needs of those involved, regardless of prior experience. By coming together and sharing personal experiences with social injustices or disasters, individuals foster a strong sense of solidarity.

Here in Denver, we are fortunate to house multiple food access coalitions, including The Denver Community Food Access Coalition.  The Denver Community Food Access Coalition is dedicated to “creating a more equitable food system for all communities”, they partner with nine Denver metro organizations, focusing on emergency food assistance, urban agriculture, long-term policy, public education, community organizing, and policy. 

Denver is also home to many mutual aid organizations such as Mutual Aid Monday, Denver Community Fridges, and Rocky Mountain Mutual Aid.

Mutual Aid Monday is a grassroots, mutual aid organization founded in November 2020. Composed of community members, we care deeply for our neighbors experiencing homelessness. Every Monday night, the team at Mutual Aid Monday serves a community meal that helps to feed over 400 people in Denver’s neighborhoods. 

Denver Community Fridges has a unique spin on providing free food to Denver residents experiencing food insecurity. With six fridges and one pantry spread across the Denver metro area, Denver Community Fridges relies on neighbors and volunteers to stock, clean, and maintain the fridges. These fridges help anyone and everyone experiencing food insecurity. 

We Don’t Waste supports Denver Community Fridges by connecting volunteers with food recovery opportunities through the We Rescue app. Volunteers recover surplus food from local businesses and then deliver it to the fridges. 

Rocky Mountain Mutual Aid is a mutual aid group dedicated to delivering food to food-insecure individuals who may not have access to transportation or are disabled. They work with the Denver Community Food Access Coalition to source and deliver food across Denver. 

Mutual aid is more than just a means of providing resources—it is a powerful expression of solidarity and collective care. In times of crisis and everyday struggles alike, communities that come together to support one another build resilience, foster trust, and create lasting change. Mutual aid prioritizes direct action, shared responsibility, and recognizes that everyone has something valuable to contribute.

By investing in mutual aid efforts, we strengthen the fabric of our communities, ensuring that no one is left behind. Whether through food access programs, grassroots initiatives, or local support networks, these efforts demonstrate that when people work together, they can overcome systemic barriers and create a more just and equitable society. 

At We Don’t Waste, we recognize that community and mutual aid are at the heart of meaningful change. Our ability to fight food insecurity would not be possible without the courage, compassion, and selflessness of our supporters, our volunteers, and our community partners. It is through collective action that we uphold the fundamental truth that our humanity is rooted in community. When we come together to support one another, we affirm that no one should have to face hunger alone. Mutual aid is not just about food, it’s about dignity, connection, and the belief that a stronger, more equitable future is built by all of us, for all of us.

Looking for ways to make a difference in Denver? Volunteering is a great way to support local organizations, meet new people, and give back to the community. Whether you’re passionate about fighting hunger, helping animals, or supporting youth programs, there’s a volunteer opportunity for you. 

Nervous about volunteering for the first time? Many organizations have orientations and volunteer managers onsite for your support. Plus, we always recommend bringing a friend to sign up and volunteer with you. It makes the experience even more enjoyable, and provides organizations with twice the support.

Volunteering isn’t just about giving—it’s also about how connections within your community can serve you. Here are a few reasons to get involved:

• Make a Meaningful Impact – Your time and effort directly support people and causes in need. In fact, the value of a volunteer hour in Colorado is estimated to be around $36.36! Volunteer support is necessary for many nonprofits’ operations. 
• Build Community Connections – Meet like-minded individuals and foster relationships that strengthen your community. 
• Develop New Skills – Gain valuable experience in teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving. You’d be surprised at how many skills are transferable between volunteer opportunities and your school or workplace. 
• Improve Mental Well-Being – Helping others has been shown to reduce stress and increase overall happiness.
• Make a Difference for the Environment – Creating a healthier planet for all means supporting generations of plants, animals, and humans to come. 

1. We Don’t Waste – Fighting Food Waste & Hunger

We Don’t Waste rescues surplus food from the food industry and distributes it to communities facing food insecurity. Volunteers help distribute fresh food at Mobile Food Markets, assist with food recovery efforts through the We Rescue app, and support special events. This is a great hands-on opportunity to reduce food waste and provide nutritious food to those in need. 

2. WeeCycle – serving families with essentials

You can support families in Denver with essential products for infants and children through volunteer distribution with WeeCycle. WeeCycle collects and distributes diapers, formula, wipes, and other essentials for families through various markets around the Denver area, and utilizes volunteers to get families what they need at distribution events. 

3. Project Angel Heart – provide nutritious food for healing

This nonprofit delivers nutritious, medically-tailored meals to individuals with life-threatening illnesses. Volunteers help with meal prep, packaging, and delivery, ensuring that those in need receive healthy food to support their health.

4. Dumb Friends League – help local animals

Animal lovers can volunteer at Dumb Friends League to care for homeless pets, assist with adoptions, and support animal welfare programs. They offer various opportunities, including fostering and working directly with animals. This volunteer program does require an application and a processing fee before you can sign up, so make sure you plan ahead for the orientation. 

5. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Colorado – be a role model for our youth

Make a lasting impact on a child’s life by becoming a mentor. Big Brothers Big Sisters matches adult volunteers with children who could benefit from positive role models, helping to build confidence and provide support. There are often waitlists to match a Big, so provide your information as soon as possible!

6. Habitat for Humanity of Metro Denver – build a stable future with housing

Help build affordable homes for families in need! Volunteers assist with construction, home repairs, and operating the Habitat ReStores, which support their mission. No experience is required—just a willingness to lend a hand.

7. Volunteers of America Colorado – serve through a variety of opportunities

This organization offers a variety of volunteer opportunities, from serving meals to seniors and veterans to helping with community outreach programs. Whether you have a few hours or want to commit long-term, they have options to fit your schedule.

How to Get Started

No matter your interests or availability, there’s a place for you to give back in Denver. There are hundreds of organizations that are active across the Denver metro area, each with many more options for scheduling and ways to utilize your skills. Visit the websites of these organizations, check out their volunteer calendars, and sign up for an opportunity that fits your passion. A little time and effort can go a long way in making a positive impact in our community.

“Why should there be hunger and privation in any land, in any city, at any table when man has the resources and the scientific know-how to provide all mankind with the basic necessities of life?” Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. recognized that true equality encompassed civil rights and economic justice, including eradicating hunger and poverty. He believed that access to adequate food was a fundamental human right and an essential component of social justice. His work in this area remains deeply influential in today’s fight against hunger and poverty. 

Launched in 1960, Dr.King’s Poor People’s Campaign aimed to address economic disparities by advocating for policies that would ensure basic human rights, including access to food, housing, and employment. King planned a March on Washington for economic justice, where people from various backgrounds would demand systemic changes to end poverty in America. 

The campaign sought to hold the U.S. government accountable for failing its most vulnerable citizens. King and his supporters argued for expanded food aid programs, guaranteed minimum incomes, and comprehensive anti-poverty legislation. He saw hunger as not just a symptom of economic inequality but as a moral failing of society, a problem that needed urgent policy-driven solutions.

In his 1960 address at Spelman College, Dr. King highlighted the paradox of food surplus amid widespread hunger:

“In the United States of America, we spend almost ten billion dollars a year to store the surplus food that we have in the nation. And I say to myself as I look at these conditions, ‘I know where we can store that food free of charge, in the wrinkled stomachs of hungry men and women and children of God all over the world.” 

Poverty and hunger are forms of systemic oppression, disproportionately affecting Black communities and other marginalized groups. In his speeches and writings, Dr. King frequently highlighted the deep connections between economic justice and racial equality, stating that true freedom could not exist without economic security.

Many organizations today, such as local food banks, shelters, and the re-established Poor People’s Campaign led by Rev. William Barber II, draw direct inspiration from King’s economic justice vision. His advocacy laid the groundwork for essential food assistance programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and the National School Lunch Program, which continue to help millions of low-income families access food. 

Through the Poor People’s Campaign, Dr. King and the Southern Christian Leadership Conference (SCLC), aimed to focus “the nation’s attention on economic inequality and poverty” (Poor People’s Campaign, 2018). After Dr.King’s death, the Poor People’s Campaign continued to work to advocate for economic and social justice. In May, 1968, multiracial groups, such as Indigenous Peoples, African Americans, Puerto Ricans, and White Appalachians as well as labor leaders, farmworkers, and activists alike flooded the National Mall in Washington D.C. dawning makeshift tents. Here, the activists stayed for 43 days, participating in daily marches to federal buildings to demand nationwide economic justice.

The tent city inherited the name “Resurrection City”, and was designed with functionality, community, and resistance in mind. From essential service tents such as sanitation and medical care, dining, and cultural centers, demonstrators would gather for song fests and workshops to organize methods for peaceful resistance. Resurrection City came to an end after protesters tried to negotiate for a peaceful evacuation but were removed by the police on June 24th, a day after the camp’s permit had expired. The police ended up arresting 360 protestors. 

In response to a widespread call for economic justice, the U.S. government began to launch committees like the Commodity Supplemental Food Program to address malnutrition among low-income mothers and children. That program then evolved into the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC). Additional food assistance programs were launched in over 100 food-insecure countries and Congress appropriated $243 million to revamp the school lunch program. 

The Resurrection City of 1968 echoes similarly to the food insecurity crisis that ticked up at the start of the COVID-19 Pandemic and has followed the globe into 2025. According to a study by California State University, “In 2019, food insecurity affected 10.5% of the U.S. population, or 35.2 million people across 13.7 million households. By summer 2020 the food insecurity rate we estimated was 27.5%”, calling for widespread activism to support the people of our nation. Anti-hunger advocates helped adapt and expand SNAP outreach and enrollment efforts, pushing for SNAP emergency allotments and child nutrition waivers as additional resources for families in need and encouraged state legislators to continue accessing federal dollars for their constituents. 

“The pandemic is a “crisis-packed situation” leading to an opportunity for change, echoing the words of Martin Luther King Jr. in “Letter from a Birmingham Jail” (King Jr. 1963).

Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy goes beyond his fight for racial equality, he was also a powerful advocate for economic justice and food security. He understood that hunger was not just an individual struggle but a systemic issue requiring government action and social change. His vision continues to inspire movements today, reminding us that ending hunger is not just a policy goal but a moral imperative. By continuing his fight for economic equality, we can work toward a world where no one goes hungry due to systemic injustice.

This Martin Luther King Jr. Day, we remember the hard work Dr. King, and the thousands of brave men and women of color who fought tirelessly for civil rights, justice, and equality. Their courage and perseverance paved the way for progress and held the government accountable for systemic injustice and for putting profits over people. 

This Martin Luther King Jr. Day, consider giving back to your community through volunteering or donating. We Don’t Waste would deeply appreciate your time and support in the fight against food insecurity. Looking for more introspective ways of celebrating Martin Luther King? Read some food and racial injustice books we have listed on our socials. 

“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” – Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Food is a powerful connector, fostering relationships and creating bonds between individuals across various cultures and communities. It provides a window into the histories, traditions, and values of diverse societies. Exploring global cuisines allows us to appreciate the rich stories embedded in dishes, from preparation methods to the rituals surrounding consumption. These practices can also shed light on societal structures, including insights into gender roles and power dynamics, offering a deeper understanding of the world and its communities.

How have food and culinary arts played a role in shaping cultures?

Since ancient times, food has been a vital part of cultures across the globe, uniting people through its necessity and universality. To sustain our calorie-hungry brains, early humans mastered fire and cooking, transforming raw ingredients into flavorful, digestible meals. This cultural innovation of adding flavor, spices, and techniques not only improved survival outcomes through increased nutritional value, but also influenced human evolution, leading to smaller teeth, weaker chewing muscles, and shorter digestive tracts compared to our primate relatives. Food’s role in shaping humanity is highlighted in our very biology. 

“There is more to eating than survival. Eating and drinking are a medium through which we gather, socialize, and create bonds. We celebrate, commemorate, tend to one another, and enact our rituals through food,” says Dr. Ara Norenzayan. 

There are two perspectives to consider: If culture is seen as a defined entity (like “American culture” or “British culture”), food becomes a crucial aspect, embodying and passing down cultural values while reinforcing a group’s unique identity over time. In this context, food traditions often (but not always) serve as markers of distinct identities on a national level, with governments sometimes intervening to safeguard local food industries from foreign influence. This reflects the broader role of food in preserving and shaping a sense of cultural uniqueness. (If you haven’t heard of gastrodiplomacy or gastronativism, you should take a look at this article from Foreign Policy.)

If we view culture as part of social life—distinct from economic or political factors—food becomes a lens through which cultural values and practices are expressed. Ideas about what is “healthy” or “good” vary, and societies establish food rules dictating what and how much to eat, and when exceptions are allowed. There’s also a social divide between “low brow” and “high brow” foods, often linked to class hierarchies already present in societal structures. For instance, gourmet food establishments use cultural knowledge to elevate certain foods while marginalizing others. It would be surprising to most Americans to find a good corned beef hash on the menu of a 3-star Michelin steakhouse, despite salted meat and potatoes being the primary items available. 

How does the language used to describe food reflect cultural attitudes and values?

A culture’s food vocabulary reflects its values and priorities. For example, an Italian child may be able to identify 22 types of pasta, while a Canadian child might know just a few words. 

Beyond vocabulary, attitudes conveyed through language shape perceptions of food. Psychologist Paul Rozin observed that French participants associate fried eggs with “breakfast,” while Americans think “cholesterol,” highlighting culinary appreciation versus health concerns. Interestingly, despite American vigilance, French life expectancy remains higher, underscoring the broader cultural differences in how food is perceived and experienced.

While language significantly influences our relationship with food, sensory elements like sound and touch also play a vital role. In Japan, slurping ramen noodles is celebrated as an expression of appreciation for the dish’s flavors and textures.

This cultural nuance is captured in Itami Juzo’s film Tampopo (1985). In one scene, a group of women are being coached by an etiquette teacher on how to eat pasta quietly, while a nearby diner gleefully slurps his ramen noodles. His infectious enjoyment of the food soon inspires the women, including their teacher, to embrace his loud expression of approval for the meal. 

Diners enjoying the ramen noodles in Tampopo (1985) by Itami Juzo.

In what ways does food serve as a medium for social and cultural exchange?

For many, food is a gateway to exploring and understanding the rich diversity of cultures within and across communities. Each community reflects its uniqueness through a variety of culinary practices. Even the same dish can be prepared in countless ways, revealing personal or cultural stories. For instance, my schnitzel differs greatly from my great-grandparents’ version because my recipe was shaped by my lifetime living in (and having access to ingredients from) the United States, not Bavaria, Germany. These lived experiences imbue my cooking with a unique flavor and history, reminding us of the narratives embedded in every meal.

Different dishes can be examples of the cultural exchange that was necessary to produce them, and it is fascinating to try to trace back their origins. Let’s think about ramen as an example. The ingredients that go into making ramen took centuries to reach Japan, either as foods associated with the spread of Buddhism or as the result of trade, colonialism, and imperialism. Then once something like wheat-based noodles reached Japan, they were innovated to change their thickness and texture and many new forms took shape including udon, soba, somen, and ramen noodles. As a dish with Chinese origins that has been built on over time, ramen became something that reflected Japanese history and changing culture.

It’s fascinating to examine historical shifts in these expectations or moments when food becomes symbolic in unexpected ways. For example, during Japan’s Fifteen Year War (1931–1945), white rice was prioritized as military rations, solidifying its newfound centrality in Japanese food culture. Previously, many rural communities on the Japanese islands relied on millet, barley, and sweet potatoes. 

Post-war, white rice transitioned from a wartime staple to a marker of middle-class aspiration, reflecting broader cultural and economic shifts as communities recovered. Rice paddies grew in number, and the demand for white rice with each meal skyrocketed. For many Westerners, white rice, as long as we could remember, is symbolic of Japanese cuisine, when it’s really only been the last 100 years that it has found its place. 

So what can we learn from all of this? 

Food is an integral part of the human experience. From our biological process to our social structures, food has been a cultural force that has shaped all of us on an individual and national level. It’s not just about nutrition, but participation in events and holidays, connecting with neighbors and friends, and having the opportunity to express our care for ourselves and others. 

Food is as much a reflection of our lives, as we are reflections of the food that we eat. 

For some of our neighbors, it is a daily struggle to access fresh, nutritious food. In Colorado, as many as 1 in 9 people will experience food insecurity, and that number is higher for people of color and those under 18 years old. 

Food access doesn’t have to be a barrier to health and happiness. You can support families and individuals on a local scale, with community-based organizations like We Don’t Waste stretching your gift further to be the most effective support possible for your neighbors. 

Volunteer, or support our work by making a gift, and you can help us support over 750,000 Coloradans each year with nutritious, no-cost food access. 

The holidays are made up of the key ingredients of food, friends, and family, and they remind us of the importance of coming together as a community and supporting one another. At We Don’t Waste, our mission is to recover and redistribute surplus food to those who need it most, ensuring every meal finds a home. This season, we invite you to make an impact by giving back in ways that have a lasting impact on your neighbors:

1. Participate in Colorado Gives Day
   Join us on December 10th for Colorado Gives Day, a statewide celebration of generosity. Your donation during this special event will have an amplified impact thanks to an incentive fund that increases the value of every gift. It’s an easy and powerful way to support families in need. First-time recurring donations are also matched up to $100, DOUBLING your support and changing more lives with food access. 

2. Make a Direct Donation
   Did you know that every dollar donated to We Don’t Waste helps us provide four meals to individuals facing food insecurity? Whether it’s a one-time gift or a recurring contribution, your support enables us to rescue and distribute nutritious food to our neighbors in need. Plus, make a gift towards our capital campaign of $250 or more to help us finish renovations on the new Food Recovery Hub, and you’re eligible for a 25% state tax credit. 

3. Volunteer Your Time
   Looking to make a hands-on difference? Join our volunteer team! Whether you’re helping at a Mobile Food Market or using the We Rescue app to become a food recovery hobbyist yourself, your time and energy directly support our mission to get food onto people’s plates today. Volunteering is also a great way to connect with like-minded individuals who care about their community, and studies have shown that volunteering boosts self-esteem and lowers stress. 

4. Attend the Bordeaux Wine Tasting Experience
   Experience an evening of elegance and impact at the Bordeaux Wine Event on January 22, 2025, at the History Colorado Center. Enjoy tastings from nearly 80 Bordeaux chateaux, presented by Applejack Wine & Spirits and the Union Des Grand Crus Bordeaux, while supporting We Don’t Waste. All proceeds from this special event directly benefit our programs, turning a unique event for wine aficionados into nourishment for those experiencing food insecurity. 

Who are you supporting? 

We Don’t Waste works with over 100 Colorado-based nonprofits that provide food to various communities. We have partners like Servicios de la Raza, which provide re-entry services, victim services, and more, including essential services like food distribution! Other partners, like the Heart & Center Center, provide after-school programs, college-readiness programs, and more for local kids, with snack and meal services so no kid has to end the day with an empty belly. 

The diversity in our nonprofit partners helps us reach more Coloradans and recover and distribute more relevant foods, with the dignity of food choice being a primary focus. We also offer Mobile Food Markets, a no-cost, pop-up farmer’s market in food desert neighborhoods around the Denver metro area.

Marguerite, a Mobile Food Market participant, shared that the markets led to a huge change in her quality of life. To her, the assurance of always knowing she has access to food means she can continue to live independently and happily in her retirement, “Food is a gift. I come to these markets once a month and it’s a blessing. Medicine becomes expensive when you get old like me, but these markets help me feed myself”!

The holidays are a time to reflect, give thanks, and give back. We’re grateful for the incredible community that makes our work possible, and we hope you’ll join us in making a difference this season.

Published September 23rd, by Gina Parker

I remember the first time I ever tried a Chicago Dog— outside the Chicago Aquarium on a park bench. I purchased it from a stand covered in Vienna Beef stickers and a sliding window that didn’t shut all the way. As a Colorado native and a Chicago tourist, I wasn’t allowed to order for myself, and had to leave that to the professional, local Chicagoans. Out came a speckled bun with one hotdog inside, topped high with (hopefully I get this list right) onion, relish, mustard, tomato, sport peppers, celery salt, and a pickle. It was, without a doubt, the best hotdog I have ever had.

I know I will remember the flavors of the cold pickle, spicy sport peppers, and tangy mustard for the rest of my life. Every time someone mentions firing up the grill, I am automatically transported to the chilled Chicago air, light breeze, the hot coal foil warming my hands, and being seated by Lake Michigan pondering why not every hotdog is a Chicago Dog. 

Have you ever experienced a flash of nostalgia when you smell freshly baked cookies wafting from a neighbor’s house? Or when you spot one of those strawberry-wrapped candies your grandma always had? Food, and specifically our senses, have allowed us to store memories triggered by something as simple as a reminiscent smell. We are all born into the world of food, taste, and cultural customs that have helped shape our perception of the world around us. Specific childhood meals, candies, and plastic-wrapped treats become stored as future nostalgic triggers for you later in life. 

The sensory experience of eating is profound. The tastes, feelings, and emotions evoked during dining are processed by the hippocampus, the part of our brain responsible for forming long-term and expressive memories. The hippocampus plays a crucial role in our emotions, and links the parts of the brain responsible for senses and understanding. This connection explains why certain smells or tastes can trigger strong emotional reactions. 

Additionally, the hippocampus has direct links to our digestive system, regulating appetite, digestion, and eating behaviors through hormonal signals. Because the hippocampus regulates both digestion and emotions, when eating occurs in the body it simultaneously sends out neurons that form an episodic memory while processing digestion. While this creates fun nostalgic moments now, this phenomenon is believed to have also given humans a step-up in evolution back when we were hunter-gatherers. Because of food’s necessity for our survival, the hippocampus is believed to have formed increasingly vivid memories regarding eating and finding food to ensure our ancestors could locate it again. 

This intricate connection between the hippocampus and our digestive system is pretty cool on its own, but it can also be therapeutic. The “Proustian Effect”, named after the French novelist Marcel Proust, describes how these involuntary food memories also call to mind social associations, personal events, and the people involved. This theory has been applied in social and psychological healing, as well as in the education of both young and old, using specific smells to trigger fond feelings and emotions in patients.

Survival is not the only thing food is good for. It’s a common inclination to believe that food is better when it is eaten together with others, and science thinks so too. A study conducted by The University of Oxford explored the relationship between communal eating and a person’s well-being. The more often an individual dines with others, the happier they feel. 

Alluding to the correlation between community and food, the study helped illustrate just how impactful communal dining is to social bonding across different cultures, locations, and ages. Throughout mankind, meals were always meant to be shared with one another, from weddings,funerals, birthdays, or just dinner at the end of a long day. Dining room tables, no matter look, size, or intended function, have always been gateways to human connection and joy. Food acts as our common ground, our universal way each of us can share a piece of who we are with each other. 

Taste, smell, and the power of nostalgia seem to be the common factors that help induce these strong memories and recalls. When I cook up spaghetti sauce for dinner and indulge my childhood desire (and favorite snack) of dipping a salty, crisp potato chip into the red gravy I can almost hear my mother’s voice ringing through my ears. I can smell the oregano springing from the pot as my sisters are pushing me out of the way to make their way to the stove. I can see my aunt and cousins standing, slinging a glass of deep red pinot noir and chatting about work. I can feel the cold, black tile flooring beneath my feet as I scoop the boiling-hot sauce onto the thin crisp and pop it in my mouth with excitement. 

Food gives you the power to connect with the community around you and power to encapsulate that moment within a single bite. Food is more than sustenance, it is truly a universal love language. Gathering around a table isn’t just about nourishment; it’s about forging connections that go further than geography and generations.  

At We Don’t Waste, we understand the profound connections food can create. Sadly, millions of pounds of food are wasted every year, while countless families struggle with hunger. We can change that—together.

Imagine the joy of sharing a meal and knowing it’s making a difference. By supporting We Don’t Waste, you’re helping to rescue surplus food and deliver it to communities in need, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to create their own memories around their dining room table.

Here’s how you can help:

Donate: Every dollar you give helps us rescue more food and reach more people.

Volunteer: Join our team in collecting and distributing food. Your time can make a big impact.

Spread the Word: Share our mission with your friends and family. The more people who know, the more we can achieve together. Follow our Instagram and Tiktok to stay up to date on our mission and actions!Visit the We Don’t Waste website to learn more and get involved. Let’s work together to reduce food waste, support our communities, and ensure that everyone can enjoy the powerful, memory-making experience of a shared meal.

Unveiling itself on September 19th, 2020 with giant red flashing lights that wrote out “7 yrs, 102 days, 12:01:59”, the Climate Clock in New York City brought a sobering reality to the real-world effects of climate change. Now with over five clocks spanning hundreds of feet in major cities across the globe, the numbers continue to tick down, signifying the amount of time we have left to reduce carbon emissions to prevent irreversible climate impacts. July 22nd, 2024 marks the pinnacle moment where the clock strikes below 5 years for the first time.

The Climate Clock is a climate change activist organization blurring the lines between art, science, and technology to mobilize the world to #ActInTime. The ominous ticking clock represents the amount of time before the world hits a global warming of 1.5 degrees celsius, or when the impacts of climate change become irreversible. 

At We Don’t Waste, we believe that understanding the intersection between climate change and food waste is critical for driving change towards a more equitable future for all. Food waste is not just a missed opportunity to feed those in need; it is a significant environmental issue.

When food is wasted, all the resources used to produce it—water, energy, labor, and transportation are also squandered, which adds up to 21%-30% of water wasted, or 1.3 billion tons. More alarmingly, food waste that ends up in landfills generates methane, a potent greenhouse gas that is over 25 times more impactful than carbon dioxide at trapping heat in the atmosphere.

Globally, approximately one-third of all food produced for human consumption is lost or wasted. In the United States alone, that figure rises to 40%, equating to roughly 219 pounds of waste per person each year. The United Nations estimates that if food waste were a country, it would be the third-largest emitter of greenhouse gasses after the US and China.

Climate justice recognizes the disproportionate impacts of climate change on low-income communities around the world, the people typically least responsible for the problem, and is an important part of the discussion. Underrepresented populations, including marginalized communities and individuals with lower economic status, often bear the brunt of climate impacts despite having a minimal carbon footprint. These groups are typically more vulnerable to climate-related disasters, such as extreme weather events, rising sea levels, and food insecurity, due to their limited financial resources and development of factories or waste production plants in lower income areas.  Unlike wealthier demographics, marginalized communities often lack the means to relocate, rebuild, or adapt to the changing environment, leading to greater negative impacts on their livelihoods and well-being.

Climate change won’t cause an instantaneous, end-of-the-world event like in a Hollywood movie portrayal, rather, just the end of the world as we know it. Unless we do something. The purpose of this clock is to remind us of the urgency to protect our planet.

At We Don’t Waste, we are committed to reducing food waste and its environmental impact through innovative solutions:

1. Food Recovery: We rescue food that would otherwise go to waste and redirect it to those in need. By partnering with local nonprofits, farms, and community organizations, we ensure that surplus food is efficiently distributed.
2. Education and Awareness: We educate communities about the importance of reducing food waste at home and in businesses. Simple actions like meal planning, proper food storage, and understanding expiration dates can significantly reduce household food waste.
3. Advocacy: We advocate for policies that support food waste reduction and promote sustainability. This includes supporting legislation that encourages food donation and the development of infrastructure to manage food waste effectively.

It is important to understand the scope at which our agricultural system and capitalistic tendencies of production and overconsumption are impacting the warming of Earth’s atmosphere. From the deforestation and degradation of our soil, run-off of toxic chemicals from pesticides and fertilizers, lack of biodiversity, and overproduction of crops, fostering impactful change starts with our systems. While this may be scary, we ALL have the power to start inciting real change at both a micro and macro level. 

Here’s How You Can Help

Reducing food waste is a collective effort. Here are some ways you can contribute:

1. Plan Your Meals: Buy only what you need and plan meals to make the most of your ingredients.
2. Store Food Properly: Learn how to store different types of food to extend their shelf life.
3. Use Leftovers Creatively: Repurpose leftovers into new meals to avoid throwing them away.
4. Support Local Nonprofits: Donate to local organizations like We Don’t Waste to support those in your community most effectively.
5. Call Your Local Representative: Understand the climate change and waste management protocols in your area and advocate for a more sustainable future. You can find your local representative’s information here!
6. Limit Your Consumption: Not all organizations prioritize sustainability or ethical business practices equally. Take some time to learn about how the companies producing the products you buy regularly are impacting our planet, and see if you can find more sustainable alternatives. Checkout the Ethical Consumer and their Shopping Guides to learn more!
7. Shop Small and Local: By shopping locally and in season you ensure not only the best quality of food for yourself, but you also reduce the amount of carbon emissions produced by each product with less shipping.
8. Do not give up hope! Small habit changes from each of us quickly add up to larger impacts, and demanding change in our governments and in our capitalist systems are the most effective levers of change.