The Capital Region Food Program (CRFP) has recognized longtime volunteer Charlie Bristol for over three decades of unwavering commitment to addressing food insecurity in the Greater Concord area. His recent induction into the Mark E. Manus Honor Society highlights a legacy defined by leadership, innovation, and compassion.
Established in 1995, the Manus Society honors individuals whose contributions have significantly shaped CRFP’s mission and impact. Inductees are selected through a process led by CRFP leadership, including a member of the Manus family.
Charlie Bristol has served the community for over 3 decades.
“Charlie has been a tremendous supporter, ambassador, advocate and champion of our mission,” said Maria Manus Painchaud, a member of the nomination committee. “His unyielding commitment is evident not only through his longevity, but clearly by his actions and contributions to the well-being of the organization and those we serve.”
From Holiday Volunteer to Board Leadership
Bristol’s involvement began in the early 1990s as a volunteer with CRFP’s Holiday Food Basket Project. His dedication and leadership soon led to his appointment to the Board of Trustees, where he served as Secretary for 30 years.
Today, he continues to support the organization through his work on the Technology Committee, applying his IT background to improve CRFP’s systems and ensure long-term operational sustainability.
Looking Back—and Ahead
At the induction ceremony, Bristol reflected on the organization’s growth and the community that fuels it.
“Since joining the organization, I have had the honor and privilege to work with many remarkable people that have inspired me,” he said. “Perhaps the most amazing thing has been to watch the organization grow and adapt in the face of an ever changing social and economic climate. Everyone continues to ask how we can better serve our evolving community and create an organization that continues to meet those needs.”
A Lasting Impact
CRFP leadership praised Bristol’s decades of service as not only transformative for the organization but also critical to its ability to meet the rising need for food assistance in the region. His work has helped shape CRFP’s long-standing partnerships with local agencies and supported the distribution of over 110 tons of food each year.
The organization extended its gratitude and congratulations, noting that his induction into the Manus Society is a fitting tribute to a volunteer whose influence will be felt for years to come.
To learn more about the Capital Region Food Program and its impact in the community, visit capitalregionfoodprogram.org.
About the Capital Region Food Program
The Capital Region Food Program (CRFP) is a private, nonprofit organization working to reduce hunger in the Greater Concord area through year-round food distribution. Founded in 1974, CRFP partners with over 30 local agencies and relies on donations, in-kind support, and volunteers to carry out its mission. Each year, the organization distributes more than 110 tons of food through two core initiatives: the Year Round Distribution Project, which provides food eleven times annually to partner agencies, and the Holiday Project, which delivers the equivalent of 70 tons of food during the winter season.
Media Contact
Derek Berndt
Marketing & Technology Committee Chair
Capital Region Food Program
d.berndt@capitalregionfoodprogram.org
