Farm Stand Philosophy

One of the many joys of growing up in the verdant foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains was the seasonal availability of the freshest corn, squash, tomatoes, peaches, and apples. My family often bought produce directly from the grower at produce stands, roadside stalls, or orchards. They knew these small business owners by name, asked after their families, traded recipes. There was something deeply personal about buying food this way, having an apple, let’s say, pass from the hand that grew it to the one that would consume it. I didn’t realize how much I valued the intangible but very present magic in this exchange until I was an adult. Those long ago childhood visits to farm stands or orchard sheds instilled in me the deep understanding that service is not just about offering something of value, but also about really knowing and being part of the community you serve.

Throughout my work in the social sector, I have seen the power of relationships to bring about meaningful change, improve lives, and bolster communities. I believe that nothing of value is produced without respectful, reciprocal relationships. Those are the kinds of connections I seek with my clients. I listen closely for what their work means to them, for what their dreams hold, and for whom or for what purpose they invest their time, treasure, and talent each day. And I strive to make sure the work I produce for my clients lives up to the trust they place in me to help them move their mission another step forward.