Chobani gifted $250,000 each to infrastructure projects in Central New York and Idaho's Magic Valley to create vibrant community spaces that foster connection, inclusivity, and growth.

Chobani created the Chobani Legacy Project Fund in 2022 based on the understanding that great communities aren't built overnight – they are nurtured and strengthened by people coming together. Each year, Chobani employees nominate and choose local infrastructure projects that make a lasting difference in the local community. 

Information about each project is listed below:

Central New York: A Kitchen That Nourishes More Than Meals: In rural New York, small farms, food banks, and pantries work side by side to fight hunger—but often lack the facilities to make the biggest impact. Chobani's gift will support Unadilla Community Farm's buildout of a solar-powered commercial kitchen and classroom space in West Edmeston, N.Y. The multifunctional kitchen, which will turn fresh harvests into nutritious meals for those in need, will also double as a teaching space for the Unadilla Community Farm's Beginning Farmer Training Program. Food made on-site will be donated to regional food pantries and community clinics through the Unadilla Community Farm Food Access and Herbal Aid Programs. Once complete, the space will also be open to community members for public rental, encouraging community gathering.  

"We're thrilled to support the commercial kitchen at Unadilla Community Farm as this year's Legacy Project. The Legacy Projects gives our employees a chance to spotlight the causes they care about most, offering a sense of pride and connection to the community," said Nate Gundlach, senior vice president of operations at Chobani's plant in South Edmeston, N.Y. "This investment isn't just about food, it's about building skills, creating jobs, and bringing people together in a space where learning and generosity go hand in hand." 

The Magic Valley: A Playground Where Every Child Belongs: For many children, playgrounds are where friendships are formed, imaginations run wild, and confidence is built. But for kids with disabilities, finding a place where they can truly play alongside their peers is rare. In the Magic Valley, Chobani's gift will support the construction of a new inclusive playground at Harrison Elementary School in Twin Falls. The specially designed playground will be for children of all ages, abilities, and developmental stages to play alongside one another and form lasting bonds. The park will also serve as a community gathering space for families throughout the neighborhood to enjoy. 

"It is incredibly rewarding to see our plant employees actively participating in the voting process for these projects – they are not just choosing a project to support but determining Chobani's legacy in the community, and that's so powerful," said Doug Young, senior vice president of operations at Chobani's Twin Falls plant. "At Chobani, giving back isn't a top-down decision, it's driven by the people who make our yogurt everyday. Their personal involvement fosters a deep sense of community and belonging making everyone feel connected and valued."