Community Mercantile Education Foundation

CMEF Logo

The Mission of Community Mercantile Education Foundation is to provide nutrition education that promotes personal health and well-being, strengthens our community, and supports sustainable and local food systems.

Our Work

Community Mercantile Education Foundation (CMEF) was established in 1999. With the help of grants and private donations we have developed and executed dynamic nutrition education programs for a variety of populations, all with an emphasis on locally and sustainably grown foods. These include:

  • Presentations to seniors in low-income housing
  • Eight-session after-school nutrition and cooking program for three of Lawrence's Junior High Schools
  • Nutrition and cooking classes for low-income youth in our community through partnerships with area social service agencies
  • An eight-week summer program for at-risk teens involved in the JAMS job-training program (Jobs in the Arts Make Sense). Teens are connected to their community with the help of local food professionals who prepare and feed participants meals made from locally grown ingredients.

Vision for the Future

Our vision embraces both continuing and expanding personal and community health education in the northeast Kansas region. We will do this, with your help. To support the efforts of Community Mercantile Education Foundation, you can send your tax-deductable contribution to CMEF, in care of the Merc at 901 Iowa, Lawrence, Kansas 66044. Your donation will help us to educate your community.

How to Reach Us

  • Nancy O'Connor, Executive Director
  • Community Mercantile Education Foundation
  • 901 Iowa Street
  • Lawrence, KS 66044
  • ph: 785-843-8544
  • fax: 785-331-0842
  • Email: cmef@themerc.coop

Board of Directors

  • Bianca Storlazzi, President
  • Susan Millstein, Vice President
  • Hilary Kass, Secretary
  • Deb Rake, Treasurer
  • Herman Leon, Board Member
  • Leda Sedlock, Board Member
  • Michelle Stizza, Board Member
  • Joan Vibert, Board Member
  • Nancy O'Connor, Executive Director