Foundation Information

501(c)(3) Disclaimer

First & Fork Foundation is a tax-exempt charitable organization recognized under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Our mission is to cultivate skilled, culturally aware culinary leaders through immersive international experiences and hands-on training. Through education, mentorship, cultural exchange, and leadership development, we work to prepare emerging culinary professionals to lead within their workplaces, communities, and the broader culinary industry.

Political Activity

First & Fork Foundation does not support, oppose, endorse, or contribute to any candidate for public office or political party.

As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, the Foundation is prohibited from participating or intervening in political campaigns on behalf of, or in opposition to, candidates for public office.

Individuals associated with First & Fork Foundation—including directors, officers, volunteers, mentors, partners, and program participants—may hold and express their own personal political views and participate in political activities in their individual capacities.

Those personal views and activities do not represent First & Fork Foundation and should not be presented in a manner that suggests Foundation endorsement, sponsorship, or participation.

Public Policy and Education

First & Fork Foundation may participate in educational discussions concerning issues relevant to culinary leadership, workforce development, education, hospitality, food systems, and the communities we serve.

As permitted by law, the Foundation may also engage in limited activities related to public policy or legislation consistent with its charitable and educational purposes. Such activities will remain subject to the restrictions applicable to organizations exempt under Section 501(c)(3).

Independence of Views

Participation in a First & Fork Foundation program, event, partnership, or initiative does not imply that the Foundation endorses the personal, political, professional, or organizational views of any participant, speaker, mentor, donor, sponsor, partner, volunteer, or other affiliated individual or organization.

Statements made by individuals are their own unless expressly identified as an official statement of First & Fork Foundation.

Charitable Status

First & Fork Foundation operates exclusively for charitable and educational purposes consistent with Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Contributions to First & Fork Foundation are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.