North American Vegetarian Society

Logo of the North American Vegetarian Society

North American Vegetarian Society (NAVS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the vegetarian lifestyle across North America. Founded in 1974, NAVS advocates for the health, environmental, and ethical benefits of a vegetarian diet through education, community building, and events. The society is known for its inclusive approach, welcoming individuals at all stages of their journey towards a plant-based diet.

History

The North American Vegetarian Society was established in 1974 with the aim of supporting and growing the vegetarian community in North America. Since its inception, NAVS has played a pivotal role in spreading awareness about the benefits of vegetarianism and providing resources for individuals seeking to adopt a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle.

Mission and Activities

The primary mission of NAVS is to promote the practice of vegetarianism and to provide a supportive community for vegetarians and vegans. The society organizes various activities to fulfill this mission, including:

• Educational Programs: NAVS offers a range of educational resources and programs designed to inform the public about the health benefits of a vegetarian diet, as well as its positive impact on the environment and animal welfare.
• Annual Events: One of the hallmark events organized by NAVS is the Vegetarian Summerfest, a conference that gathers speakers, workshops, and vendors to celebrate and educate about vegetarianism and veganism.
• Community Support: The society provides support to individuals transitioning to a vegetarian lifestyle through its website, publications, and community events.

Membership

Membership to the North American Vegetarian Society is open to anyone interested in supporting or learning more about vegetarianism. Members receive benefits such as discounts on events like the Vegetarian Summerfest, access to exclusive resources, and a subscription to the society's newsletter.

Impact

Over the years, NAVS has made significant contributions to the vegetarian movement in North America. Through its educational programs and community-building efforts, the society has helped increase awareness of vegetarianism and encouraged more people to consider plant-based diets. NAVS has also played a role in advocating for vegetarian options in public institutions and has been a voice for ethical, environmental, and health-related issues connected to diet.

See Also

• Vegetarianism
• Veganism
• Vegetarian cuisine
• Animal rights
• Environmentalism