Social Purpose Spotlight

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 Stephanie Luros-Gilbert, CFSP, chief commercial officer, BSI, LLC, Denver, Colo. BSI has supported their local food bank, Food Bank of the Rockies, for several years. Food Bank of the Rockies serves communities across Colorado and Wyoming, which is the largest food bank coverage area in the contiguous United States.  Gilbert adds, “We’ve continued our engagement throughout and beyond COVID, as food insecurity is an ongoing challenge for many across the Denver metro area and outlying communities.”

Beyond the food bank-related activities, BSI recently became aware of and started supporting Project Angel Heart, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to providing Coloradans grappling with severe illness access to healthy food through high-quality nutrition services, including medically-tailored meals and additional wraparound services. Gilbert explains, “BSI currently hosts bi-monthly meal delivery decorating jam sessions in the lunch and break room. We play music and cheer on one another for creative and uplifting designs. It provides our cross-functional teams with a way to engage with one another, have a fun break in the day, and do something positive for our fellow Denver residents. “

BSI has a social planning committee that works in conjunction with Human Resources to allocate resources from a BSI Shares account to fund what they deem to be worthwhile initiatives, particularly focused on addressing food insecurity. Additionally, Gilbert notes, “There are occasions in which the team expands our focus and reach, such as supporting a project management team member running in the Chicago marathon (her very first!) who requested we support the Ronald McDonald House.”

Denver and Colorado, more broadly, continue to grapple with the high cost of living and other economic challenges. According to local statistics, an estimated 1 in 6 households and 1 in 5 children face food insecurity in the Denver metro area. “Aligning with NAFEM’s Social Purpose initiative is critically important to the BSI team, as it enables our efforts to have an even greater impact,” Gilbert explains, “NAFEM’s willingness to support and partner with us means a tremendous amount and is something that all NAFEM members should be leveraging to ensure we are able to maximize our efforts.”

Next up, BSI plans to engage with other Denver-based NAFEM manufacturers, along with local MAFSI, FCSI and other industry-related association partners to identify volunteer opportunities for all their teams to collectively support support the local community. They’re looking forward to increasing their impact in 2026 and beyond.  

If your organization is considering a social purpose initiative Luros-Gilbert suggests, “Just ask! Local organizations are always seeking support and resources, both fiscally and via volunteering.  BSI team members believe in supporting the broader communities in which they live and work; everyone on our team rallies around BSI’s passion for making a positive impact through fighting hunger both now, and for future generations.”

NAFEM’s Social Purpose program, #NAFEMFightingHunger, launched its sixth year in March. Since 2020, NAFEM members have donated more than 43 million meals to neighbors 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.

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.