On July 30, 10 Girlfriends carpooled to Hillsboro for a tour of Working Theory Farm, a 2024 Impact Partner. They were treated to a lengthy 90-minute tour of the beautiful 24- acre property that grows vegetables, fruit trees, chickens (for eggs), and pigs (being raised to sell by fall). A small pond surrounded by trees creates a quiet space for staff, youth, and visiting seniors from Centro Cultural.
A centerpiece of this farm’s model is that high-school-aged youth (from alternative schools and Harkins House, an alternative to detention) participate in paid summer work to learn about and participate in all aspects of organic farming. Produce is offered for purchase through community-supported agriculture shares* (sold out this year), and through collaboration with Centro Cultural for distribution through their Free Food Mercado.
Bagel, a spunky mixed breed with a zest for fetching, followed behind her bosses David Altuzar (communications manager) and Henney Sullivan (development director).
David Altuzar was recently hired (partially funded through our Impact Award). He summed up the experience as follows:
“As if on cue, clouds rolled in to soften the summer sun during the ninety-nine girlfriends visit. As we strolled through the fields, we paused to meet the pigs and chickens and to share how our no-till, regenerative, organic practices are both a commitment to the land and a vehicle for transformation. Along the way, the Girlfriends saw youth actively working and heard how vital it is for young people to have spaces like this, where they can find purpose, connect with the earth, and redefine their relationship to food and community.
One of our youth, Maverick (15), captured it best: ‘Working here makes me more appreciative of everything I have — in knowing the process, the love, the energy, the hard work that goes into growing food.’ ”
All who participated felt grateful for the Working Theory Farm staff taking time to treat the Girlfriends to this tour during their busiest time of the year. When it works for our Impact Partners, a visit to experience the mission of their organization enriches our knowledge and appreciation of all the pieces that our partners manage. Beyond vegetables…it was food for the soul!