From Vision to Viability: Practical Funding Strategies for Nourishing School Food Systems
June 3
3:30 – 4:30 pm
Room 519A
You are already doing meaningful work to nourish students, strengthen communities, and advance equity through school food. This session builds on that foundation by offering practical, confidence-building strategies to support long-term sustainability. You will learn how to position initiatives—such as universal meals, local food partnerships, nutrition education, and kitchen capacity—for public, philanthropic, and community funding. Through real-world examples and actionable frameworks, you will leave energized and equipped to secure the resources that help your school food programs grow and thrive.
Bio:
SHARON MAIER is Vice President of Institutional Advancement with more than 20 years of experience in philanthropy, nonprofit leadership, and large-scale grant development. She holds a Master’s degree in Philanthropy and has secured and managed millions of dollars in public and private funding for K–12 education, school food systems, and community-based initiatives. A sought-after national speaker at conferences including Action for Healthy Kids, CADCA, Michigan AfterSchool Conference, Wellness Together, Faith & Fundraising, and Point of Light, Sharon is known for her clear, practical approach qand an inspiring ability to help leaders see what is possible—and how to fund it.