At Operation Fruit Rescue Edmonton (OFRE), we’ve always known that our volunteers are extraordinary. Back in 2012, two of our core members, Amy Beaith-Johnson and Kevin Kossowan, were recognized in Avenue Edmonton’s prestigious Top 40 Under 40. This award celebrates individuals who are shaping a better Edmonton, and we couldn’t be prouder to have had Amy and Kevin as part of our journey.
Amy Beaith-Johnson: A Visionary in Local Food Security
As a founding volunteer of OFRE, Amy stepped up to lead the organization in its early days, keeping the mission alive even when the road wasn’t easy.
“Volunteering with OFRE has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. It’s amazing to see how bringing people together with unique skills can create something powerful—helping to rescue fresh, local food and reduce waste across Edmonton. Through OFRE, I get to connect with the community, support sustainable food practices, and educate others on the importance of using our local food supply. It’s a mission that’s close to my heart, and I’m proud to be a part of it.”
– Amy Beaith-Johnson, Co-Founder of OFRE and Top 40 Under 40 Award Recipient
From coordinating fruit rescue efforts to educating the community about the importance of locally grown food, Amy’s leadership set a strong foundation for the work we continue today. Read more about Amy’s inspiring journey here.
Kevin Kossowan: Connecting Communities Through Food
Kevin’s contributions to OFRE extended far beyond fruit picking. As a passionate advocate for sustainable food systems, Kevin brought innovative ideas and a commitment to fostering community connections.
“Volunteering with OFRE allowed me to connect with Edmonton’s food landscape in a meaningful way. From rescuing fruit to reducing waste, the work we did was about more than picking—it was about community, sustainability, and making local food systems stronger. It’s amazing to see what can happen when we work together to make a difference.”
– Kevin Kossowan, Former OFRE Volunteer and Top 40 Under 40 Award Recipient
His work with OFRE highlights how volunteering can create lasting change in Edmonton. Learn about Kevin’s story here.
Why Their Stories Matter Today
Amy and Kevin’s recognition isn’t just about their incredible achievements—it’s a testament to the power of volunteering. Their contributions helped shape OFRE’s mission to rescue fruit, reduce waste, and build a stronger community. It’s a legacy we carry forward in everything we do, and it’s made possible by people like you.
How You Can Join the Movement
If you’ve ever wondered how you can make an impact, volunteering with OFRE is a fantastic way to start. Whether it’s joining one of our committees, helping out at events, or sharing your unique skills, there’s a place for everyone at OFRE.
Check out our volunteer opportunities and see how you can be part of our growing community. Together, we can continue the work that Amy, Kevin, and so many others began. Who knows? You might even discover new passions and connections along the way.
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