Chapters Displayed Pride and Reached an Amazing Goal to Help Defeat Hunger at the Chapter Appreciation Luncheon

NAFA's Chapter Appreciation Luncheon was more than a terrific way to share ideas with chapter peers and colleagues. It was also an opportunity to make a stand against hunger with the Rise Against Hunger charitable organization.

The event was hosted by 2018 I&E Arrangements Committee Chair Anthony Orta, Assistant Director – Fleet Management Strategy and Compliance Manager, Sempra Energy Utilities; and NAFA Vice President Jeff Jeter, Fleet Manager, BlueBird Virginia.

"NAFA’s chapters do so much every year and are a great strength of the Association," said Jeter. "One thing is common among all the chapters: they are a vital and valuable resource for all of us to learn from each other, make connections, and build lasting relationships.

"Of course, it goes without saying, that many of our chapters would not be where they are without the incredible help of our Associate Members. These supplier partners not only help financially, but they also provide subject matter experts, offer meeting facilities, and bring fleet managers to the meetings," he added.

After an inspiring message from NAFA Foundation President Claude Masters, CAFM^®, (see more about Masters' message in this issue), attendees were challenged to share their energies with people who struggle to survive each day. Partnering with NAFA in Anaheim this year, Rise Against Hunger is an international hunger relief organization that distributes food and life-changing aid to the world’s most vulnerable.

Joel Boucher, Community Engagement Manager for Rise Against Hunger, offered some insight into what the organization does and how I&E attendees could volunteer for a friendly challenge. After attendees finished their meal, they were asked to help make meal packages for local families in need of food. Workstations at the back of the auditorium buzzed with activity to

When the event ended, the tally of packed food supplies well exceeded the goal, reaching nearly 41,000 meals, confirming again that NAFA Members are more than professionals, they're also caring individuals ready to turn their concerns to action.