About Us
Preserving America's Forgotten Fruit
The Pawpaw Foundation is organized exclusively for charitable and educational purposes. Our mission is to plant pawpaw trees and educate the public about their ecological, cultural, and nutritional value.
Through hands-on planting efforts and engaging programs with schools, community groups, and local organizations in Northern Illinois, we're working to restore this remarkable native species to the landscape it once dominated.
How We Started
The Pawpaw Foundation grew out of a shared passion for native plants and a belief that the pawpaw — America's largest native fruit — deserves a place in our communities, our diets, and our ecological future.
Based in DeKalb County, Illinois, we work to establish pawpaw groves throughout Northern Illinois, partnering with schools, parks, municipalities, and community organizations. Our annual Pawpaw Festival celebrates this remarkable fruit and introduces new generations to its unique flavor.
We believe that planting pawpaw trees is an investment in biodiversity, food security, and community resilience. Every tree we plant is a step toward a greener, more connected Northern Illinois.
Our Board
Matthew Deitch
President
Shawn Beck
Secretary
Jerry Foster
Treasurer
Al Roloff
Director
Melani Duffrin
Director
Austin Cliffe
Executive Director
501(c)(3) Tax-Exempt Organization
The Pawpaw Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Your donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Address: 1600 E Lincoln Hwy, DeKalb, IL 60115