The United Fresh Foundation is now accepting applications for the 2012 Frieda Rapoport Caplan Family Business Scholarship Program. The program awards up to four scholarships for employees of family-owned businesses to attend United Fresh Produce Association’s Washington Public Policy Conference (WPPC) in October.

Scholarship recipients will receive complimentary airfare, hotel and registration to attend the WPPC, October 1-3, 2012 at the Hyatt Regency on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C. The Washington Public Policy Conference brings together hundreds of produce leaders from all sectors of the industry to interact personally and share ideas with administration officials, congressional leaders and industry colleagues.

“United Fresh did a wonderful job preparing us to meet with members of Congress,” said 2011 scholarship recipient Tami Martin, Human Resources Manager for Black Gold Farms. “The information sessions educated participants on the issues that directly impact our business. When meeting with our nation’s lawmakers, I gained a much deeper understanding of how politics and policies shape our industry and the way we do business. This scholarship provided an opportunity to be engaged first-hand in the political process and ensure our industry’s voice is heard in D.C.”

The Frieda Rapoport Caplan Family Business Scholarship Program was established in 2001 through a generous grant from Frieda's, Inc. by Karen Caplan and Jackie Caplan Wiggins in honor of their mother, Frieda. The program, administered through the United Fresh Foundation, is designed to increase family business' involvement in government relations and produce industry advocacy.

“This program allows employees of family businesses to share their perspectives on industry issues in a high-profile way,” said Victoria Backer, United Fresh senior vice president of member services, foundation. “One-on-one meetings with policymakers are a key feature of this conference that really amplifies the voice of the industry. I encourage anyone who is involved with a family business to apply and take advantage of this important advocacy opportunity.”

To apply for a 2012 Frieda Rapoport Caplan Family Business Scholarship, participants must complete an application form and written submission outlining why they want to attend the WPPC and what they hope to gain from the experience. Applicants must be employed by a family-owned business that is a United Fresh member company in good standing. The application can be downloaded here and must be received by July 31.

Applications should be sent to the United Fresh Foundation, attention Shannon Young, United Fresh Education Manager via email to [email protected]; fax to 202-303-3433; or mail to United Fresh Foundation, 1901 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Suite 1100, Washington, D.C, 20006.