In honor of Earth Month, Natural Grocers is partnering with Rodale Institute for its annual Ladybug Love campaign.
The Lakewood, Colo.-based grocer is encouraging its communities to pledge to protect beneficial insects and further Rodale Institute's mission to help farmers adopt regenerative organic agricultural methods, according to a news release.
The annual Ladybug Love campaign raises awareness about the role beneficial insects play in regenerative agriculture.
This year's Earth Month fundraising efforts will benefit Rodale Institute and its Farmer Training Programs — highly immersive, full-time programs that train farmers in organic practices and offer a pathway to careers in regenerative organic crop and vegetable production.
"We're honored to be chosen as a cause supported by Natural Grocers and its customers," said Jeff Tkach, CEO of Rodale Institute. "When shoppers invest their hard-earned dollars in the Institute's work, they're supporting small family farms, improving the environment and growing the body of scientific research that equips farmers to adopt regenerative organic practices."
"Natural Grocers' Ladybug Love campaign raises awareness about the crucial role beneficial insects play in our food supply and regenerative farming," said Raquel Isely, vice president of marketing for Natural Grocers. "It's fitting that this year's campaign supports Rodale Institute because its groundbreaking research and farmer-support programs drive meaningful change in agriculture and food production. Through the generosity of our customers and Rodale Institute's commitment, we can help launch or refine careers in organic agriculture. We are grateful to our customers for sharing our passion to protect beneficial insects, the land and our planet."
Customers can take or renew their Ladybug Love pledge online, committing to avoiding chemicals that harm ladybugs and other beneficial insects in their homes, yards and gardens while supporting 100% organic produce. Natural Grocers aims to raise $100,000 in April for Rodale Institute's Farmer Training Programs through the following in-store fundraising opportunities:
- Natural Grocers will donate $1 (up to $25,000) to Rodale Institute for every Ladybug Love pledge signed from April 1-30.
- Customers can donate $1, $5, or $10 at the register to support Rodale Institute's Farmer Training Programs from April 1-30.
- For every Ladybug Zip Pouch sold from April 22-24, Natural Grocers will donate $2 to Rodale Institute.
- Npower members who make or renew their pledge from April 1-15 will receive $5 off their purchase from April 22-24.
- Npower members will also receive a free limited-edition Ladybug Love reusable bag and sticker with any purchase from April 22-24.