Skip Consalo recognized for contribution to the Vineland community
It has been a big year for Skip Consalo, CEO of Consalo Family Farms, the Vineland, NJ-based operation that is now on the verge of entering its 97th year of business.
Earlier this year, Consalo, the third generation of the Consalo family to operate the company, was honored by being named one of the 2023 Spirit of Achievement Award recipients for the Italian Cultural Foundation of South Jersey. A not-for-profit organization, the foundation was formed to conduct charitable and educational activities. Specifically, the foundation was created to provide education regarding the history and culture of Italy and the role of Italian-Americans in the development of the United States. The organization conducts educational presentations, hosts cultural events, and provides scholarships.
The Spirit of Achievement award recognizes local individuals who are of Italian heritage and are known for their service to the community. Individuals who receive the award exhibit “strong family values and exceptional moral character.” Consalo was recognized by the foundation on Nov. 3 at Merighi’s Savoy Inn in Vineland.
Company officials said that giving back to the community has long been a big part of the culture — and the success — at Consalo Family Farms. “Some of the goals Skip has inspired include giving back in areas where food and farming impact society,” said Chelsea Consalo, one of Consalo’s three children, the fourth generation to be involved in the business. “Over the years, his philanthropic endeavors have ranged from supporting schools, local sports teams, scholarships and beyond.”
One of the primary ways in which Consalo Family Farms gives back as a company is partnering with the Vineland Soup Kitchen to provide fresh produce at monthly barbecue lunches. The company also supports the kitchen events and fundraisers. Consalo’s generosity has touched the lives of countless individuals, fostering a spirit of unity and mutual support in the Vineland community.
Skip Consalo’s grandmother, Louise Consalo, was the first individual to receive the Spirit of Achievement Award in 1988. Following that, William Consalo, Jr. received the award in 2002. “The Consalo family is honored to be recognized in the Vineland community for philanthropy and Skip is proud to continue the legacy,” Chelsea Consalo added.
As company officials continue to be honored for their contributions to the community, the company itself continues to expand and prepare for the future. In 2022, Consalo Family Farms purchased additional acreage to increase its production of organic and conventional vegetables during the New Jersey growing season.
“We had a very strong first year with our organic vegetables and we are looking to expand and continue to build the organic program,” Chelsea Consalo noted. “In addition to the new acreage in organic vegetables, we felt that it was important for us to continue to diversify in blueberries as well. We expanded our acreage at our home blueberry farm in Egg Harbor City, NJ.”
Chelsea Consalo said that the company’s future is bright and the next generation of the family, which includes her brother Anthony and sister Sarah, are ready for the challenge. “The company is continuing to grow and expand and we are excited for the future,” she noted. “We just celebrated the 20th anniversary of our sales and distribution division, The Fresh Wave, and we are very proud to be family-owned, family-operated, and also in our fourth generation. We continue to promote a culture of giving back in addition to our core values of quality, dependability and integrity.”
Top photo: Board members Donna Longo Brunetta, Rosana Schreiber and Robert Odorizzi with Skip Consalo as he received the award.