Meet Our Team
Our Mission
NFVS’s mission is to promote respect for the earth’s inhabitants, resources, and humans through veganism. We promote veganism for a healthy body, spirit, environment, and as the only compassionate civilized choice that alleviates animal suffering. We organize outreach opportunities and monthly networking events like potlucks and dinners — tasty educational chances to mingle and learn about the benefits of a vegan lifestyle. Growing an engaged community has allowed us to organize and support peaceful campaigns that will achieve our goal of a more just future.
History
The Northeast Florida Vegetarian Society began in June 1999 when 10 local vegetarian/vegan friends gathered at the Manatee Cafe in St. Augustine. We met monthly there and expanded as our community grew. Meetup accelerated our growth that helped create an even broader community of businesses (nearing 3,000 members today), networking, and activism that keeps evolving in Northeast Florida.
Along the way, NFVS initiated the first annual Northeast Florida Veg Fest in 2010, hosted movie premiers (like Forks Over Knives and Cowspiracy), featured guest local and national speakers, and partnered with animal sanctuaries for vegan and animal advocacy events.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Veganism?
The most common definition is that veganism is the practice of abstaining from the use of animal products, particularly in diet, and an associated philosophy that rejects the commodity status of animals.
Veganism is also thought of as a political, social, and ethical movement to end animal exploitation.
When and where do we host events?
NFVS hosts events primarily in the greater Jacksonville area. Our past events are on the meetup website. https://www.meetup.com/NFVegSociety/
Can I come even if I’m not vegan or vegetarian?
Yes, NFVS events are for anyone: vegetarians, vegans, and anyone on the path of exploring or committing to eating plant-based, however we will only serve vegan food at our events.
Is there a dress code?
NFVS doesn’t enforce any dress code unless the event venue has one. We do ask that attendees abstain from wearing leather, fur, or any animal products at our events and in your own lives.
What if I’m single and ready to mingle?
Although love is grand, we don’t host singles events.
Can I self promote?
Yes, at NFVS events we make a few announcements and during that time we invite anyone to share activities or projects that would be of interest to our members.
Are there cost and membership dues?
No, NFVS doesn’t charge membership dues. The only cost to you would be the price of attending the event. If relevant, the event price details are always in the Meetup announcement.
Can I donate?
Yes, donations can be made on the NFVS Meetup page: https://www.meetup.com/NFVegSociety/. Additionally, we will raffle items to raise money for expenses (literature, tabling, website, and Meetup).
Are events child-friendly?
NFVS welcomes attendees of all ages. In fact our events are rated ‘E for everybody’.