|
|
Dear Gluten,
As I sit here munching on my gluten-free crackers, I can’t help but chuckle at the thought of how 1974 was like a parallel universe. Bell-bottoms were all the rage, eggs were 58 cents a dozen, and you couldn’t just stroll into any grocery store and find gluten-free food. Oh no, you had to be a detective, a negotiator, and sometimes a magician to conjure up something that resembled bread. Grinding rice for flour and making your own ketchup were the only options if you needed to be gluten-free. It was a time of change, challenge, and the early whispers of a gluten-free revolution.
Ironically, during Celiac Awareness Month in 1974 (years before it was a recognized awareness effort) Elaine Hartsook, the developer of the first gluten-free diet plan for the American Dietetic Association, opened the doors of the Gluten Intolerance Group to support the handful of people who needed to eat gluten-free. Under her pioneering leadership, GIG became a beacon of hope, a community where the words “You’re not alone” took on a new meaning.
|
|
Several years later, I received my own celiac disease diagnosis. Despite being a dietitian and clinical diabetes educator, I felt very alone struggling with the complexities of the gluten-free diet. After seeking out guidance from Elaine, I found my own calling, advocating by her side, and eventually, upon her passing, stepped into her big shoes. | |
| |
|
Elaine’s legacy shines through in the smiles we share when we realize that gluten-free living is not only possible, but that we are in this together! Today, GIG has support groups throughout the US, our education materials and meal plans are accessed by half a million people every year, and our GFCO program has allowed the global gluten-free community to have easy access to safe gluten-free food, and our GFFS program gives peace of mind to everyone dining out of their house. It has been an honor to bring her dreams to life.
As we continue to celebrate how far we’ve come over the last 50 years, enjoy a little walk down memory lane with us HERE, then let’s raise a glass for a gluten-free toast to Elaine, the dedicated team at GIG/GFCO & GFFS, the volunteers who make lives easier in their own communities, the food manufactures and food services providing us with safe gluten-free food... and to the journey ahead!
- Cynthia Kelly
|
|
|
GIG’s Golden Jubilee 50th Anniversary Celebration
When: Welcome reception starts on Friday, September 6th at 6 pm
Program Activities will be throughout the day Saturday, September 7th & Sunday, September 8th
The Gala reception will be held Saturday night, September 7th
Where: Hilton University Place in Charlotte, NC
What: A joyous celebration of our past, our present, and the future of the gluten-free community. This two-day event will include prominent speakers, interactive activities, and a special recognition dinner. The GF Teen Summit will be happening concurrently!
Some of our featured speakers include:
- Shelley Case, RD
- Parul Kharod, MS, RDN, LDN
- Dr. Alyse Bedell
Registration is NOW OPEN! Head over to our event websites for all the details.
| |
|
Many thanks to WOW Baking for signing up as a sponsor! Be sure to follow GIG’s social media this coming week for an exciting contest opportunity to win some delicious cookies.
| |
The GFCO Swag Shop is NOW OPEN | | |
|
|
Wear it proud! Our exclusive GFCO-branded merch is here to make a statement. Whether you're hitting the gym, grabbing a coffee, or just lounging at home, our stylish collection has you covered.
Plus, every purchase fuels our mission. 100% of proceeds go directly to funding our nonprofit's vital work. So, not only will you look good, but you'll feel good too!
| |
|
This month’s newsletter is brought
to you by BIBIBOP Asian Grill!
| |
|
Offering a modern twist on traditional Korean cuisine, BIBIBOP Asian Grill has quickly become the go-to destination for those seeking delicious, gluten-free dining options. As an all-gluten-free GFFS-Validated Safe Spot, BIBIBOP is a haven of healthy and affordable Asian food.
| |
|
Chef To Plate is GIG’s newest effort to connect gluten-free diners with restaurants that meet our minimum expectation for gluten-free food.
As an education and awareness effort under GIG’s GFFS program, we aim to build a community where finding gluten-free meals is easier.
| |
Today we are pleased to announce our first group of Chef To Plate participants! | |
|
Join us in welcoming these locations to the Chef To Plate program and thank them with your patronage.
Want to help us expand the Chef To Plate effort?
| |
|
From all of us at the Gluten Intolerance Group, THANK YOU for your years of support. We can’t wait to see what the next 50 years brings.
Cheers!
| | | | |
