10 Over 50: John Rivers
Meet John Rivers, Chairman of the 4R Foundation!
John Rivers
Chairman, The 4R Foundation
The roots of Rivers’ “Barbeque Ministry” are spread far and deep, engaging businesses and institutions with the goal of eliminating hunger in Central Florida through his 4R Foundation.
About John:
John Rivers never set out to create the most successful BBQ chain in Florida. He’s not a classically trained chef or graduate of culinary school. It was in Texas that he found the two loves of his life: his wife and the delicate art of brisket. And it’s been those very two godsends that inspired 4 Rivers as we know it.
John spent 20 years in the healthcare industry before retiring as president of a billion-dollar company. During that time, he had the opportunity to travel the country, honing his taste and talent for brisket perfection. As he soaked up the flavors and practices of ‘cue fare countrywide, John’s dream of de-regionalizing BBQ was born.
About 4R Foundation:
4Roots is an alliance of community stakeholders investing in a healthy thriving, sustainable, food system. Their key initiative is the 4Roots Farm Campus which is being developed in the heart of Orlando to serve as a community crossroads where individuals and organizations can work together to build solutions for a better food future.
About 10 Over 50:
Orlando magazine’s 2022 10 Over 50 List honors those changemakers in the community over 50 who continue to make a difference in Central Florida.
