“Locavore” is a word that many may not have heard of; however, supporters of SyracuseFirst live by it. According to the Oxford American Dictionary, this 2007 word of the year defines an individual who exclusively or primarily eats foods from their regional foodshed or within a determined radius from their home (often 100 miles). By eating locally, these individuals hope to create a greater connection between people and their food sources, resist industrialized and processed food, and support their local economy and community.

SyracuseFirst, a nonprofit organization launched in June 2009 by long-time resident Chris Fowler, expands the food-based definition of locavore and encourages individuals to try to buy everything locally. Fowler comes with a background in public policy and politics and an interest in having deep local connections. Through his involvement in 40 Below, Onondaga Citizens League, Syracuse 20/20 and other groups, he started to see the “missing component in the narrative these groups were trying to create.” After asking how people could be empowered to change the economic viability of the community, SyracuseFirst was founded.

In the competitive world of business, there is a growing emphasis on responsibility. The “triple bottom line” that businesses need to keep in mind is that the decisions they make are intertwined and affect the community, environment and economy. Through a network of more than 150 businesses, Fowler and SyracuseFirst are focusing on building a sustainable community and educating folks about the benefits of buying local.

From a community perspective, seeking locally-sourced items helps to change how people perceive Syracuse. “Syracuse is not a second-class community,” attests Fowler, who believes that in engaging community members, Syracuse will become a character-driven area. Buying locally also benefits the environment, as people often travel longer distances to go to chain stores and thereby increase their carbon footprints. Too, buying locally generates more money in the community. Fowler says many are shocked to learn that if everyone in Onondaga County shifted just 10% of their buying power to locally-owned businesses, $130 million in additional revenues would be realized. While this may seem like an enormous charge, to help make the transition easier, Fowler suggests choosing a local restaurant when opting to dine out.

The Connective Corridor and SyracuseFirst have intersecting missions: a desire to activate our common spaces and connect those who move within them. “We all have a part in creating a community where people want to live,” Fowler affirms. To see how you can be a part of the movement, visit http://syracusefirst.com.