Equitable Food Initiative

At EFI, certification is not about perfection — it’s about continuous improvement.

Corrective Action Plans (CAPs) are viewed as opportunities to strengthen systems, support a people-centered culture and drive meaningful, long-term progress across agricultural operations.

Rather than treating CAPs as setbacks, EFI’s approach encourages learning, collaboration and practical improvement that helps build stronger workplaces and more resilient operations over time.

Learn more and watch the webinar on-demand >> https://hubs.li/Q04jz2Y50

Moments like this are exactly why the Farmworker of the Year Award was created.

We were so moved by this beautiful message from one of our 2026 award winners, Jesus Gutierrez from Stemilt. Celebrating excellence across our community is an honor, but seeing the real impact it has on our winners is the ultimate reward. 🍎

Celebrating 30 years of National Safety Month.

At EFI, safety is not just compliance — it’s a culture built through worker engagement, communication and continuous improvement.

That approach is showing measurable impact in the field. For example, Stemilt Growers, reports workplace injuries decreased 15% from 2023 to 2024, attributed to stronger worker engagement through EFI’s Responsibly Grown, Farmworker Assured certification.

When workers are empowered to identify risks and shape solutions, safer and stronger workplaces follow.

Join us for a free online webinar, People and Pollinators: From the Field Up with Whole Foods Market.

Featuring Katy Green, Produce Field Inspector at Whole Foods Market, and agricultural sustainability consultant Katie Chiapuzio, this conversation will explore how Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is applied in day-to-day agricultural operations and what retailers look for during field visits.

Designed for growers, suppliers and sustainability professionals, this webinar will provide practical insights on navigating challenges, improving alignment and strengthening responsible production practices — with actionable takeaways to support continuous improvement in the field.

Register today >> https://hubs.li/Q04jryWm0

This year, we have TWO Farmworker of the Year winners!

After a rigorous two-tier evaluation process — including an external review panel, anonymous submissions with all identifying organizational details removed, and a Borda count voting method — the final results ended in a tie. This outcome speaks to the extraordinary leadership, dedication and impact demonstrated by both individuals.

Congratulations to this year’s winners: Maria Barbara Resendiz Martinez and Jesús Gutierrez Manuel!
GoodFarms Stemilt

Progress you can measure. Impact you can see.

The latest ECIP Annual Report is here, highlighting key findings, program growth, and the real-world impact of a people-centered approach across the food growing industry.

Explore how continuous improvement is driving stronger systems, empowered teams, and lasting change.

Read the Report Now! https://hubs.li/Q04jdkh90

Farmworker of the Year FINALIST! Meet Maria Barbara Resendiz Martinez

Growth is built through action—and sustained through leadership. Barbara has spent 20 years rising through the ranks, leading with fairness and transforming teams along the way. From the field to the broader community, her impact at GoodFarms continues to shape both people and progress.

Meet Barbara at https://hubs.li/Q04gN_V30

Farmworker of the Year FINALIST! Meet Rogelio Nabor Martinez

Leadership is built over time—and proven through action. With 25 years in the field and working at Blue House Farm\, Rogelio has grown into a trusted leader, guiding teams while advocating for stronger communities. His impact is felt not only in operations, but in the future he’s helping create for others.

Meet Rogelio at https://hubs.li/Q04gCTDW0

Farmworker of the Year FINALIST! Meet Isaias Lepes Arredondo

Fifty years of dedication leaves a lasting impact. Isaias has spent a lifetime showing what commitment, humility, and pride in one’s work truly look like—adapting with the industry while mentoring the next generation along the way. Currently working with Rainier Fruit Company, his legacy is built not on recognition but on the people and systems he’s helped sustain.

Meet Isaias aka Sammy at https://hubs.li/Q04gpp9g0

Farmworker of the Year FINALIST! Meet Jesus Gutierrez Manuel

Leadership is measured by the people who believe in you. With over 15 years in the field, Jesús has earned the respect of his peers and teams alike—rising through the ranks at Stemilt Growers while championing innovation, safety, and growth. His work reflects a deeper commitment to both people and progress.

Meet Jesus at https://hubs.li/Q04grV_B0