Social Purpose Spotlight – Middleby Corporation

In NAFEM’s monthly Social Purpose Spotlight, one member company’s social purpose story is featured. Perhaps reading about the creativity and dedication of fellow NAFEM members will inspire you to start a program at your organization or provide some new ideas to enhance what you’re already doing.

This month we talked to Darcy Bretz, vice president of corporate communications and director of Middleby Cares, Middleby Corporation, Elgin, Ill. Many of the Middleby divisions have been working with their local food banks for decades and Middleby joined Feeding America as a corporate partner in 2022. Bretz comments, “we regularly come together as different brands and specialties working toward a common goal. There is food insecurity in every community, so we’re united in the same mission.”

Because of the size and broad reach of Middleby, the company addresses food insecurity across the country. Bretz continues, “Our industry feeds people, it’s that simple. Together with NAFEM and our fellow member companies, Middleby can make a significant impact. We appreciate the highly visible NAFEM leadership on this important initiative which has increased our sense of purpose and inspired our team to get involved.”

In recognition of their efforts, Middleby received FEDA’s Spirit of Giving award at the recent FEDA Annual Conference. The award is presented to a FEDA member company that has demonstrated exceptional kindness and support for others through community service. The award was established in recognition of former FEDA Executive Vice President Ray Herrick.

At the Middleby headquarters in Elgin, Illinois, a social purpose committee meets regularly to share ideas and plan impactful activities. The committee is made up of representatives from internal finance, HR and communications to ensure diverse perspectives. Committee members also visit local schools and areas of need to assess how Middleby can get involved.

In Elgin, an ongoing partnership with the local food banks is a priority. In addition to hands-on volunteering at the Northern Illinois Food Bank, Middleby was a sponsor of their Fight Hunger 5k in the spring. At the Greater Chicago Food Depository, Middleby played a significant role in launching their new meal preparation facility which opened earlier this year. Dozens of meals are delivered every holiday season to local families, packed by corporate employees who participate in an annual effort.  For one day, the Middleby technology center turns into an assembly line so employees can efficiently pack bags and boxes of food for those in need. Social purpose engagement is company-wide, as Bretz explains, “we have so many photos and great stories from our employees from California to New Hampshire making a difference in their communities and addressing food insecurity.”

If your organization is considering a social purpose initiative, Bretz suggests, “Get off the sidelines and into the game! Take action and work with Feeding America® because they have so many opportunities for involvement. There is something for everyone, you just have to take the first step.”

NAFEM’s Social Purpose program, #NAFEMFightingHunger, is back for its fifth year, with a goal of raising funds to support 6.5 million meals for those in need. When members donate funds, food or volunteer time to their local Feeding America member food banks or any local food bank, NAFEM contributes matching funds. This year, NAFEM will match up to $300,000 of member contributions to local food banks. 

For ideas to start or enhance your company’s efforts, visit #NAFEMFightingHunger. If you have questions or would like to be featured in a future Social Purpose Spotlight, contact NAFEM Headquarters, +1.312.821.0201.