DC Veg Week is more than an event; we are an entire 501(c)(3) non-profit that builds awareness and interest in planet-forward plant-based food in the DC metropolitan region. We organize an annual veg-oriented restaurant week to celebrate the plant-based restaurants, chefs, and cuisne of the DMV. Using film screenings, engaging events, and delicious plant-based food, DC Veg Week centers inclusion and fun in shaping a better world!
Want to help make this work successful? Support us (EIN 85-2778936) with a tax-deductible contribution to increase our capacity for a DC that is more familiar and friendly to veg-oriented foods.
Board of Directors
MAX BROAD
Max Broad is the Founder of DC Voters for Animals Ed Fund and started DC Veg Restaurant Week in 2022. In this capacity Broad seeks to strengthen ties between DC residents and our animal friends. With a background in climate advocacy, Broad has previously worked for the National Wildlife Federation, as a contractor with the Department of Energy, AmeriCorps NCCC (where he was recognized as Corps Member of the Year), and as a Lincoln Assassination tour guide. Broad has a Masters in Environmental Science and Management from UC Santa Barbara and loves vegan burritos.
SAMMY FRIES
Sammy moved to DC in 2016 to advocate for our earth and all its inhabitants. They’ve worked to educate consumers, politicians, and businesses on ways to improve animal welfare and better support animal lovers. Along the way, Sammy has had the opportunity to work with big companies like Vox Media and support grassroots organizations like DC Voters for Animals, Plant-Dining Partnerships, and Effective Altruism, DC. In 2022, Sammy earned an MBA in Sustainable Innovation. Sammy helps care for two cats: Goose and Cricket.
AIMEE SCHMIDT
I have a deep concern about the mistreatment and devaluation of animals and believe that education and involvement of citizens and lawmakers is the most effective way to affect change. Non-profit accounting, including the filing of tax returns, and developing financial reserve projections; monetizing the value of ecosystem services provided by both flora and fauna to support funding requests to decision makers and identification of projects that would provide the highest rate of socio-economic return; research and analysis of biophysical and geopolitical data.
EMMA GOLDBAS
Emma is a Maine native but a citizen of the world. She holds a BA in Anthropology, International Relations and Middle Eastern Studies from Syracuse University and an MA In International Relations from American University. After 7 years in North and East Africa, Emma has returned to The District working for domestic policy change as a service provider to help returning citizens, immigrants and low and middle income folks integrate into the workforce. A lover of animals and the environment, nature is home. I get to call Remy, Owl, Simone and Xena my furry companions.
MEIRA VALTONEN
Meira is a multilingual media professional with a masters in Food Policy from City, University of London, focusing on sustainable diets, food choice, choice architecture and reducing use of animal products in the food system. She is dedicated to mainstreaming and reframing veganism, carrying out constant research on current plant-based trends.
As a cinematographer, she has filmed award-winning documentaries, current affairs programs, entertainment and campaign videos for the Finnish Broadcasting Company, independent production companies and NGOs in Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East and South and North America.
Prior to moving to Washington D.C., Meira co-founded and worked as a producer and a strategist in Climate Menu, an NGO organizing an annual climate and animal friendly restaurant week in her native Finland.
A fan of big cities, she needs to get out to the nature regularly. Wherever there is any body of water, you’ll find her swimming in it or kayaking on it. A lifelong animal rights advocate, Meira’s dearest friends are her Thai rescue dog Teemo and Finnish rescue cat Milli.
Sponsors
Founded in 1927, The Veg Society of the District of Columbia (VSDC) is the nation’s oldest continuously operating 501 (c) (3) non-profit organization promoting an all-plant diet and vegan lifestyle through education, community-building, and social activities throughout the DC metro area.
VSDC believes in treating all people, animals, and the planet with respect and kindness. We are committed to creating a more compassionate and caring world. We do this by creating a community of like-minded people who are on the path to an all-plant diet and vegan lifestyle. Whoever you are, and wherever you are on this path, we offer resources and fellowship to support you. We make your journey easier, more enjoyable and meaningful.
VSDC. Creating communities. For your health, the animals, and the planet.
DC Veg Restaurant Week 