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Celebrating Farmers: Horizon Organic's Commitment to Sustainable Dairy

Horizon Organic, a leader in the organic dairy sector and the largest USDA-certified organic dairy brand, is proud to announce a significant initiative aimed at supporting the future of organic farming. The company recently revealed the recipients of its 2026 Horizon Organic Producer Education (HOPE) Scholarships and HOPE Awards, recognizing the hard work of farmers across the nation. This initiative, along with sponsorship of Farm Aid 2026 and the Organic Trade Association's Organic Week, underscores Horizon's dedication to fostering the agricultural community.

Investing in the Future of Organic Farming

Horizon Organic understands that the future of farming relies on the dedication and innovation of the next generation. With nearly 1.3 million farmers approaching retirement age and only 300,000 farmers under 35, the urgency for support in organic farming has never been more pertinent. Horizon collaborates closely with over 500 farmer partners, establishing strong relationships that focus on knowledge-sharing and sustainable practices essential for thriving farms.

The longevity of these partnerships speaks volumes—more than a quarter of Horizon's farmer partners have been with the brand for over ten years, and about thirty have consistently supplied milk for more than two decades. Tyler Holm, CEO of Horizon Family Brands, expressed gratitude for these relationships, stating, "When farmers succeed, it bolsters the entire food system. The expertise and commitment of our farmers motivate us daily."

HOPE Scholarships: The Future Leaders of Organic Dairy

Established in 2007, the HOPE Scholarship program plays a vital role in nurturing future leaders in organic dairy farming. Each year, scholarships are awarded to young individuals from Horizon farm families pursuing careers in organic agriculture and veterinary sciences. To date, the program has granted 114 scholarships totaling over $300,000 to Horizon's farmers' young relatives.

This year’s recipients include:

• - Macey Dahl (Pavilion, N.Y.), Cottonwood Farms LLC
• - Evan Frescura (Latrobe, Pa.), Frescura Farm
• - Justus Visser (Stanwood, Wash.), Natural Milk Too
• - Rachel Hatch (Freedom, N.Y.), Emary Springs Farm

Macey Dahl, a two-time scholarship recipient, expressed her appreciation, highlighting how the scholarship affirms her hard work and empowers her aspirations.

HOPE Awards: Recognizing Excellence in Organic Farming

The HOPE Awards honor those who not only excel in agricultural practices but also contribute positively to their communities. This year’s recipients include:

• - Farmer Legacy Award: Jerry Clapper, Clapper Farms
• - Farm Partner of the Year Award: Don, Debbie Moreda, and Stephanie Moreda-Arend, Moreda Valley Dairy
• - Young Farmer Award: Lucas Waugerman, Fair Family Farms, LLC
• - Nature Award: Aaron Schmid, Mountain Meadow Dairy
• - Social Award: Jonathan and Ella King, King Dairy
• - Innovative/Pioneering Award: Benuel S. Beiler, Benuel S. Beiler Dairy
• - Hauler of the Year Award: Moo Juice Express

Ella King, a recipient of the Social Award, reflected on the significance of the award, stating, "Our commitment to cow care is paramount; this recognition elevates the hard work we dedicate to our farm daily."

A Commitment Beyond Scholarships

Beyond the scholarships and awards, Horizon Organic is actively engaged in crucial events that celebrate and support organic farming. This September, the company is taking part in Organic Week (September 14–16) in Washington, D.C., where leaders of the organic sector gather to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing the industry. Tyler Holm joins discussions at the CEO Roundtable, focusing on the future vision of organic agriculture.

In addition, Horizon is proud to sponsor Farm Aid 2026, an annual festival celebrating family farmers and raising funds to sustain agricultural communities. Scheduled for September 26 in Virginia Beach, the event will feature farmer partners, providing them a platform to connect and share their invaluable contributions to the food system.

A Vision for Sustainable Agriculture

As a certified B Corp, Horizon Organic acknowledges its responsibility to nurture its farmer partners and promote sustainable practices within agriculture. The brand fosters a culture of innovation while respecting the environment and supporting community wellbeing. By continuing to uplift and engage with farmers, Horizon strives to improve the standard of organic dairy every day.

Together with partners like Maple Hill and Wallaby, Horizon Organic family brands are on a mission to inspire healthier living and promote a conscious food system. Through their efforts, Horizon sets the pace for a sustainable future in organic dairy farming.

For more information about Horizon Organic and their initiatives, visit horizon.com.