Meet Lauren, a longtime Ground Up Brand Ambassador and one of the many women helping us spread the good. From her early days discovering Ground Up through her family to her journey from intern to ambassador, Lauren embodies what it means to grow alongside a mission-driven community. Whether she’s out on the trail, behind a sewing machine, or traveling to share our story, her passion for uplifting women and building meaningful connections shines through in everything she does. Read on to hear more about Lauren's journey with Ground Up below.

Tell us a little about you! 

Hello! My name is Lauren and I am currently a student in my last year at the University of Oregon. I am studying Business Administration and Art History. In my free time, I am most likely outside, hiking, backpacking, skiing or mountaineering. I LOVE to be creative, sewing and writing are my favorite ways of expressing myself. I also love to read- I am currently reading Women Who Run with the Wolves by Clarissa Pinkola Estés. Definitely recommend! 

How did you first discover Ground Up? 

I first discovered Ground Up through my family, they were gifted a tasting flight trio of nut butters and we all fell in love instantly. It was special to find an entirely women-owned and operated company based in my hometown, and learning about their social impact work on-site made me even more curious about Ground Up. 

What inspired you to become a Brand Ambassador? 

I started as an intern a few years ago, where I was able to build meaningful relationships and work across a variety of local events- allowing me to meet more of the Ground Up community. Through that experience, I was able to see the impact Ground Up has in supporting women both personally and professionally. I knew I wanted to continue spreading the word about this social-impact work and contribute in a more long-term way. Being a brand ambassador over the years has been an opportunity to strengthen those relationships, amplify the mission and help create encouraging spaces for more women to start from the Ground Up! 

What has your experience been like as a part of the Ground Up team/community?

Since starting in 2023, my experience working with the Ground Up community has been amazing! I have had the opportunity to travel regionally to spread the word, being able to see the growth both locally and in new locations has been immensely inspiring! I have also been able to witness many women joining and graduating from the job-skills program, which is the most impactful and encouraging aspect. Seeing the changes in their lives as well as throughout the workplace is deeply meaningful and makes me very happy. 

What does “spreading the good” mean to you?  

Spreading the good to me means being intentional with finding opportunities to help the community of women all around me. I want to be a reliable resource for those who encourage and uplift me everyday–whether that means being an emotional support, stepping in when someone feels overwhelmed or taking on extra responsibilities when needed. Through fostering a sense of mutual care and empowerment, I hope to create more spaces to extend kindness, where women can feel increasingly valued, supported and confident in their daily lives. 

What do you wish more people knew about Ground Up and our mission? 

Support is always there for you. There are often opportunities for collective connection during group workshops and events, one of my favorite memories was going to Ground Up’s tie-dye party! As well as encouraging one-on-one support, if you need help with finding resources or are wanting another perspective on something, there is someone who will be there to uplift you in a way that feels good to you. 

Any advice you’d give to someone who wants to get involved with a mission-driven brand like Ground Up? 

Believe in yourself and reach out if you are interested in helping out! Local volunteering or supporting any mission-oriented company when you have the time and resources, can be extremely beneficial to build experience and most-likely additional work might follow if that’s your goal. Particularly with volunteer tasks, social impact can always use more helping hands and building a relationship could eventually lead to more aligning opportunities in the future. 

What’s your favorite Ground Up flavor — and how do you love to enjoy it?

Honey Cardamom is my favorite flavor. I recommend it to anyone who loves savory butters! The best way to enjoy this butter is pairing it with figs and salt. Stuff the nut butter into half a fig and sprinkle salt flakes on top, charcuterie style. I also have been recently enjoying Triple Nut Crunch with my yogurt and chia pudding breakfast, drizzling the nut butter on top. So good!