Last week something incredible happened. The Ballard Center for Social Impact at Brigham Young University hosted its highly regarded Do Good. Better. Conference, drawing changemakers and visionaries from across the nation. Among them was our very own Rev. Dr. Heber Brown, III—invited to share the story of The Black Church Food Security Network and its unwavering commitment to food justice.
 
What followed was a moment that left us beaming with pride and gratitude.
 
On March 14, Dr. Brown stood before a packed audience and was presented with the Social Innovator of the Year Award, a prestigious honor recognizing leaders who challenge the status quo and create lasting change in their communities. Along with the award came a $10,000 contribution to support BCFSN’s mission.
 

The award is more than just a trophy or a check; it’s a recognition of the sacred work we all do together—connecting faith, food, and justice.

The conference itself was a powerful reminder that change doesn’t happen in isolation. Dr. Brown joined panel discussions and workshops alongside other inspiring leaders, sharing ideas, strategies, and stories of transformation. Again and again, he returned to the heart of our mission: ensuring that Black communities have the tools, resources, and collective power to feed themselves with dignity and pride.

As we celebrate this milestone, we do so knowing it belongs to all of us. To everyone who has supported BCFSN—whether by tending a garden, sharing our story, or offering a prayer of encouragement—this moment is your moment too.

And this, beloved community, is just the beginning.