Natalie Guo knew the coronavirus pandemic cost people jobs as well as health. She decided to help feed as many people as she could, leading her to found Off Their Plate.

For her compassionate acts, Buffalo Trace Distillery awarded her the 2021 Eagle Rare Life Award.

Guo was born in China and immigrated to the U.S. from Sweden as a child. Off Their Plate was designed to revive restaurants struggling with quarantine restrictions, and feeds health care workers and community members in need. Off Their Plate funds partners with struggling restaurants owned by women or people of color to make hot meals for healthcare workers or people experiencing hunger. Each $100 donation restores restaurant wages to the local economy while providing 10 meals for those in need.

Guo, who now lives in Boston, was chosen from dozens of nominations to become the 11^th recipient of the annual honor, which comes with a $50,000 charitable donation to the charity.

“Natalie’s story is exceptional,” Eagle Rare Bourbon Brand Director Joshua Steely said in a news release. “She has a truly representative story of pursuing the American dream to enrich her life and the lives of others. That is the embodiment of Reaching Higher. It’s that excellence that not only helps, but also inspires others. It’s truly patriotic and we are proud to recognize her and reward Off Their Plate with the Eagle Rare Life Award.”

Guo is a graduate of Princeton University and Harvard Business School. She has also tutored inner-city children, advised biotech startup companies and worked as a healthcare investor.

“It was a huge surprise to even be considered for the award,” Guo said. “Off Their Plate was built by a community of volunteers who have worked tirelessly to distribute 800,000 meals across the country in the last nine months. Volunteers and friends like Alexis Harrison, who nominated me for the award, have sprung into action in every direction. This award is really theirs. I’m so honored to accept this grant which will help us continue to do this important work.”

The Eagle Rare Life Award honors individuals whose efforts stand out as those who live a Rare Life and Reach Higher to achieve levels of excellence for themselves and their communities. Past winners include individuals who spearheaded efforts to fight childhood cancer, recognize fallen heroes of military service, lead environmental projects and create opportunities for those with disabilities. The individual or individuals are honored with the award while a $50,000 donation is made to the charity of their choice by Eagle Rare Bourbon.