The Federation of Southern Cooperatives/Land Assistance Fund Appoints Richard Benderson as Interim State Coordinator for Florida
October 6, 2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Briar Blakley
Director of Communications & Member Relations
Phone: 404-765-0991
Atlanta, Georgia — The Federation of Southern Cooperatives/Land Assistance Fund (the Federation) is pleased to announce the appointment of Richard Benderson as Interim State Coordinator for the Florida Field Office on a temporary assignment, effective September 1, 2026. Based in the Federation’s Florida office in Lake City, he serves on the Federation’s Executive Team, helping to advance strategic priorities and lead initiatives focused on cooperative economic development, land retention, and advocacy. A native of Demopolis, Alabama, Benderson comes to this role from the Federation’s Alabama Field Office, where he served as a Cooperative Development Specialist and previously as a DFAP Outreach Specialist. Benderson brings more than two decades of experience in urban planning and community development, including work with municipalities and private development organizations throughout the Southeast. His background includes work in Winter Haven and Daytona Beach, Florida; Selma, Alabama; and with the South Georgia Regional Development Center. He has also supported civic efforts at the federal, state, and local levels focused on environmental justice, community development, the arts, and voter advocacy. Benderson is an alumnus of Alabama A&M University and also attended the University of West Alabama. His professional and civic affiliations include the American Planning Association, Florida Redevelopment Association, Alabama A&M Alumni Association, Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Two Rivers Arts Council, and Southeastern Goat Cooperative. This appointment reflects the Federation’s continued expansion and reaffirms its commitment to empowering its membership of farmers, landowners, and cooperatives across the Southeast. The Federation looks forward to Benderson’s continued service and leadership as he works alongside Florida staff and members to advance the Federation’s mission. |
To learn more about career opportunities in our Florida Field Office, please visit https://www.federation.coop/fsclafcareers |
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