Leadership Transition at BREADA and the Markets

During the past 19 years it has been my privilege to serve BREADA and the Markets as Executive Director, and what an enriching experience it has been! Today I am announcing my retirement in December so that I may spend more time visiting children and grandchildren who live out of state.

This fall BREADA celebrates its 24th Anniversary of Markets and food access work. We have grown from a small farmers market with a community garden program in our early days to a robust network of markets and outreach programs, critical to the local food economy in 2020.

During COVID requirements we quickly adapted our Market formats to provide safety for our customers and farmers. If the pandemic has taught us anything, it’s that Farmers Markets are essential! The work is challenging, but the impact of keeping Markets open is vital for our community. People now cook at home more often and care about the safety of their food. Our farmers markets provide the reassurance of food grown locally and seasonally.

The Farmers, Chefs and Markets are the cornerstone of what we do, the impact we make and the people we touch. BREADA sustains the economic livelihood of Louisiana’s local food businesses, and we offer reward programs for children and SNAP customers. We cultivate relationships that are key to a healthy community, and we keep our farmers growing.

Connection, education and partnerships make a strong agricultural ecosystem, and BREADA remains dedicated to engaging the community with nutritious foods from Louisiana farmers. Since 1996 our donors, partners and sponsors have been fundamental to BREADA’s success and growth. The work we do together will adapt and continue to build a healthy food system for the next generation.

It has been a wonderful opportunity to work for many enthusiastic and supportive Board members and a talented team of staff members. I cherish what the Farmers Market means to each of us – it has captured my heart and will forever be special to me!

Fondly, 

Copper M. Alvarez

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The BREADA Board of Directors’ Search Committee is seeking its next leader, an Executive Director who will lead our growing Markets and Outreach programs to remain essential and vibrant. Please share this announcement with individuals who have a passion for working with farmers and the local food industry. Interested applicants may find more information on the BREADA website athttps://breada.org/about-us/careers