Sonoma County Focus – Sonoma County Fundación de la Voz de los Viñedos Leadership Academy

Host Michelle Marques chats with Karissa Kruse, President and CEO of Sonoma County Winegrowers and Executive Director of the Sonoma County Fundación de la Voz de los Viñedos, about a very exciting opportunity for vineyard ag workers in Sonoma County. Members of the third class of the Sonoma County Fundación de la Voz de los Viñedos’ Leadership Academy will be heading to Washington, D.C. to attend the Congressional Wine Caucus as guests of Congressman Mike Thompson in June! Their flights are taken care of by Alaska Airlines, and the Foundation will cover expenses for hotels, food, and tours while in our nation's capitol. For many, this will be their first trip to Washington D.C., and for some, this will be their first time on an airplane. If you would like to help cover costs of their trip, click here to donate. Last year, the first two classes were treated to this experience, and it was a highlight for all involved. Vineyard workers got to meet lawmakers who make policy that impacts their lives, including House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi. They were proud to present wines to the bi-partisan Wine Caucus that contained the grapes they grew, tended, and harvested. The Leadership Academy provides skills that go beyond farming, including leadership skills, public speaking, financial literacy and more. Graduates of the Leadership Academy gain so much from their experience, including promotions at their current positions, networking with other ag workers, and increased confidence in all aspects of life.