Food Allergy Advocate Devin Sailer Named One of America’s Ten Outstanding Young Americans

ONEONTA, N.Y. — Devin August Sailer, founder of the nonprofit Safe to Eat, has been selected as one of the 2026 Ten Outstanding Young Americans (TOYA) by JCI USA. 

Established in 1938, the TOYA program recognizes ten individuals ages 18-40 whose leadership, service and impact have created meaningful change in their communities and beyond. Past honorees include presidents, astronauts, entrepreneurs, athletes and other influential leaders.

At just 18 years old, Sailer is being recognized for founding Safe to Eat, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing allergen-safe food, education and resources to domestic violence shelters, homeless shelters and community organizations throughout rural New York.

Living with 31 life-threatening food allergies himself, Sailer transformed personal challenges into a mission to ensure that no child or family in crisis is left without safe food options.

Since its founding, Safe to Eat has supplied shelters across New York with allergen-safe food and educational resources while advocating for greater awareness of food allergy safety. The organization has been supported by numerous community partners, including repeated donations from Vermont Nut Free Chocolates, whose contributions have helped provide safe treats and resources to children and families served by the program.

“This recognition is really about the people who believed in Safe to Eat,” said Sailer. “Every shelter partner, volunteer, donor and supporter has helped make this possible. I’m honored to represent our community and continue the work of making sure families with food allergies feel seen, included and safe.”

Sailer has previously been recognized as a Daily Point of Light Honoree, received the Billy Michael Youth Leadership Award and was named a Global Youth Awards Finalist for his work advancing food allergy awareness and food security.

The Ten Outstanding Young Americans Gala and induction ceremony will take place Sept. 12 in Virginia Beach, Va.