FirstFruits Recognized for its Commitment to the Community

[caption id="attachment_30075" align="alignright" width="272"] (l-r): Mel Russell, Aldercreek Vineyards; Dorothy Koboski, FirstFruits Marketing; Nicole Eglin, FirstFruits Marketing; Melissa Furneaux, FirstFruits Marketing; and Tony Umek, Fluor Federal Services[/caption] FirstFruits Marketing of Washington was recognized by the Association of Washington Business (AWB) as one of eight Washington employers, and the only in the produce category, for their commitment to community service. AWB’s annual Community Service Awards recognize member companies of all sizes and types across the state of Washington for their contributions and volunteerism to make their communities better places to live and work. FirstFruits was recognized in the “Projects the Mobilize People into Action” category at the awards dinner in Spokane, Wash., on May 13, 2014. “AWB members give back to their communities in countless ways, donating time, supplies and expertise. These award winners exemplify that spirit of generosity and enterprise,” says Kris Johnson, president of AWB. “Washington is a stronger, more vibrant place because of employers like these.” FirstFruits generously funds projects that support families and children at home and abroad. In partnership with Agros International, FFM donates funding to support the building of a new agricultural community in Honduras. Three FirstFruits employees, Melissa Furneaux, Dorothy Koboski and Nicole Eglin, went to Honduras to review the project first-hand. This past July three more FirstFruits employees made the trip to Honduras in support of the project, which led to the nomination for the AWB award. “You have to see for yourself what these families struggle through just to have shelter and feed their families. They deserve to eat and sleep and attend school without fear. I am thankful that I work for a company that wants to change the world and that allowed me this opportunity to help and witness. I hope it inspires other people and companies to do the same,” reported Melissa Furneaux after the trip to Honduras. FirstFruits Marketing of Washington understands the importance of education and funds many worthy initiatives with the first 10% of its annual profits. Since 2009, FirstFruits has donated funds to local causes including an after-school training for students in low income sections of Yakima, efforts to prevent student drug abuse and a program to support teen moms to complete their education and personal development. “I am proud to work for people like Ralph and Cheryl Broetje who are so committed to giving back,” says Dorothy Koboski of FirstFruits Marketing. “I am thankful they provide the opportunity for their employees to be a part it.”