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Leah Lizarondo

CEO and Founder at Food Rescue Hero

Leah Lizarondo is a prominent social entrepreneur known for her innovative work in combating food waste and food insecurity. She is the CEO and Founder of Food Rescue Hero, a technology platform that connects volunteers with food recovery organizations to redirect surplus food from retailers to those in need. This platform has facilitated the recovery of over 175 million pounds of food across more than 25 cities in the United States and Canada, making it one of the largest volunteer transport networks globally.157

In addition to her role at Food Rescue Hero, Lizarondo is also the co-founder of 412 Food Rescue, an organization established in 2015 that utilizes technology and community engagement to address hunger and sustainability issues in Pittsburgh. Under her leadership, 412 Food Rescue has become one of the fastest-growing food recovery organizations in the U.S., mobilizing over 25,000 volunteer drivers.135

Lizarondo's work has garnered significant recognition, including awards such as the Fast Company World Changing Ideas Award in 2020 and being named Pittsburgher of the Year by Pittsburgh City Paper in 2018. She has also been featured in various media outlets, including NPR and The Washington Post, highlighting her impact on food access and environmental sustainability.156

Born and raised in the Philippines, Leah holds a graduate degree in Public Policy & Technology from Carnegie Mellon University, where she also served as an Entrepreneur-in-Residence. Her commitment to addressing climate change through food recovery initiatives aligns with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly those focused on zero hunger and responsible consumption.146

As of late 2022, Lizarondo announced her intention to step down as CEO of both organizations but plans to remain involved in a yet-to-be-defined capacity, reflecting her dedication to the mission even as she transitions to new endeavors.23

Highlights

Sep 20 · vitalvoices.org
Leah Lizarondo - Vital Voices
Food Rescue Hero's Leah Lizarondo on Battling Climate Change
A New Chapter in Food Rescue Hero's Unstoppable Movement
A New Chapter in Food Rescue Hero's Unstoppable Movement
About - Leah Lizarondo
Jan 1 · heinz.cmu.edu
Leah Lizarondo | Carnegie Mellon University's Heinz College

Related Questions

What inspired Leah Lizarondo to start 412 Food Rescue?
How has Leah Lizarondo's leadership impacted the food rescue industry?
What are some of the awards and recognitions Leah Lizarondo has received?
How does the Food Rescue Hero technology platform work?
What is Leah Lizarondo's background before founding 412 Food Rescue?
Leah Lizarondo
Leah Lizarondo, photo 1
Leah Lizarondo, photo 2
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Location

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States