Hunger is one of the most pressing challenges of our time—driven not only by a lack of food, but by inequality, conflict, climate change, and health crises. For more than 45 years, Action Against Hunger has been on the frontlines of addressing these interconnected issues. The organization works in nearly 60 countries, reaching over 21 million people annually through lifesaving nutrition programs, sustainable farming solutions, clean water systems, and innovations that help communities withstand future crises. Action Against Hunger is pioneering solutions that save lives today while tackling the root causes of hunger for tomorrow.
We invited Eric Bebernitz, Director of External Relations for Action Against Hunger, to elaborate on this critical work. With more than two decades of experience in humanitarian and social justice organizations, Eric brings a powerful perspective on what it takes to fight hunger in the most difficult contexts. Eric is joined by ~9,000 colleagues worldwide—95% of whom are from the countries where they work—ensuring that every effort is grounded in local knowledge and built for long-term resilience. They embody the belief that ending hunger isn’t just possible; it is one of the smartest investments we can make in a better future for all.
Listen for insights on:
- Approaches to sustaining impact amid political and funding shifts
- How to balance emergency aid with long-term change
- Building trust and resilience in fragile communities through local leadership
Resources + Links:
- Eric Bebernitz’s LinkedIn
- Action Against Hunger
- Plumpy'Nut
- New York Times: A $45 Treatment Can Save a Starving Child. US Aid Cuts Have Frozen the Supply
- (00:00) - Welcome to Purpose 360
- (00:13) - Action Against Hunger
- (02:08) - Eric’s Background
- (05:36) - World’s State of Hunger Today
- (08:15) - Origin Story
- (09:44) - Structure
- (12:19) - Plumpy’Nut
- (14:17) - Innovations
- (19:42) - Addressing USAID Cuts
- (25:06) - Personal Stories
- (29:16) - Career Path
- (31:32) - Last Word
- (33:39) - Wrap Up
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