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Vitality Works pledges $100K match to propel Michael McGuffin Endowment Fund toward $1 million goal
October 28, 2025
The American Herbal Products Association (AHPA) is thrilled to announce an extraordinary donation matching challenge from Mitch Coven, founder of Vitality Works and longtime AHPA member and trustee, in support of the recently launched Michael McGuffin Endowment Fund. Through the Vitality Works Endowment Fund, Coven has generously pledged to match all donations — up to a total of $100,000 — made to the Michael McGuffin Endowment Fund through March 31, 2026, helping advance the fund toward its goal of $1 million.
The Michael McGuffin Endowment Fund was established to honor the legacy of herbal champion and longtime AHPA President, Michael McGuffin, and will provide lasting financial support for critical AHPA initiatives, including advocacy, education, and research benefiting the herbal products industry. The fund is operated and managed by the AHPA ERB Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded by McGuffin in 1997 and dedicated to advancing botanical education and research.
“When the idea for the endowment fund first came to me, it was because I strongly felt Michael McGuffin's dedication to the herbal industry deserved a lasting, perpetual legacy,” said Coven. “I am proud to issue this $100,000 challenge to the herbal community, and I'm confident that, together, we can meet the $1 million target to ensure Michael's work continues for generations to come.”
The Vitality Works matching challenge means that every dollar donated by individuals and companies now through March 31, 2026, will be doubled, significantly accelerating the fund's growth. AHPA is deeply grateful to the generous individuals and organizations who have already contributed to the fund — and is pleased to confirm that these early donations will also be honored by the Vitality Works match, maximizing the impact of every contribution.
AHPA invites industry colleagues, friends, and all who have been inspired by Michael McGuffin's leadership and passion for the herbal community to take part in this remarkable opportunity. Your gift will not only be doubled but will also help secure a future where AHPA can continue to champion the responsible and sustainable growth of herbal products for years to come.
All donors to the Michael McGuffin Endowment Fund will be recognized on the AHPA website as a permanent thank you for their support. In addition, any donor who contributes $1,000 or more before March 31, 2026, will be inducted into the Michael McGuffin Endowment Fund Founders' Circle — a special honor that acknowledges those who have made a timely and substantial commitment to preserving Michael's enduring legacy.
To recognize the generosity of all contributors, AHPA has established the following giving levels:
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Seedling Supporter: $1–$999
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Root Protector: $1,000+
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Branch Builder: $5,000+
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Canopy Steward: $10,000+
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Legacy Cultivator: $25,000+
Join us in celebrating Michael's legacy and shaping the future of the herbal industry. Donate today to double your impact and help us reach the $1 million goal!
