Where the Friends began….

In the late 80’s, the Dallas Farmers Market was feeling the effects of lengthy area construction, unrealized political promises and was in desperate need of a community coalition to preserve the integrity of the once popular, city owned ‘farm to table’ concept.  Community volunteer Ida Paper, an election chair for then-Mayor Starke Taylor and a decades-long, seasoned civic leader seemed the logical choice for the politicos of 1991 to head an organization that would gather support for the 40 year old Dallas Farmers Market.  With a small but visionary support group (aka Ida’s civic pals), the Dallas Farmers Market Friends held their first meeting in early 1991.

Fast-forward to 2010 and we see the results of the efforts of these original few.  The DFMFriends have contributed thousands of dollars and volunteer time to the DFM.  These critical dollars have provided the necessary materials, education and support for the continued growth and development of the Dallas Farmers Market.

Mission Statement
The Dallas Farmers Market Friends is organized exclusively for charitable, civic, agricultural and social purposes. The Dallas Farmers Market Friends focuses on promoting and expanding the community awareness and utilizition of the Dallas Farmers Market, as well as raising of funds for the preservation, promotion, and re-development of the Dallas Farmers Market.