Sweet Stories 2023

My favorite part of the day is arriving at the farm early in the morning. I step out of my car and take in the serene and peaceful landscape. I hear the farm team laughing in the barn, and geese fly over my head as the sun starts to rise. The farm has a magic running through it that pulls you back into the present moment. I feel lucky to have coworkers who stop to watch the sunrise together and intentionally gather for lunch. The farm’s commitment to community, kindness, and responsible stewardship shines through every action and every person contributing to the vision. It is a truly remarkable place to work, and an amazing community resource. ~Mace Clinkenbeard, Operations Coordinator

While walking out to harvest pluots in the creek orchard I spooked a jack rabbit which also spooked me; as the jack rabbit ran through the orchard I noticed a coyote slowly stalking the rabbit. Behind the coyote a doe and her fawn bounced into the brush to safety. This small experience which was about 10 seconds exemplifies what Soil Born Farms has done for the ecology on the American River Parkway. Im proud to be a part of this organization and look to grow it and with it to our full potential. ~Tom Efstratis, Farmer/Event Liaison

Last Winter, while working in the fields by myself, I was feeling the effects of the cold, gray weather and was doing some very physical work. The combination of the weather, work and loneliness was beginning to hit me. Just when I began to recognize this feeling, a Great blue heron landed at the end of the bed I was working in to remind me that I was not alone. That I was surrounded by life, and it reminded me how interconnected we all are. This heron then visited me every day that week and made his presence known for several months. Just last month, I noticed a Great blue heron has begun to visit the farm daily and I can all but hope it is my friend from last Winter checking in on me. ~Thomas Lyons, Farmer Manager

As I approach the end of year 3 of my time here at the farm, I’m reminded more and more that it’s the little things that seem to matter the most. The simple, everyday moments of magic that are realized when we take the time to slow down — Pulling into the parking lot on chilly, Fall Saturday mornings to see the moon greeting me over the frosty fields. Our resident rooster, Tiny (the smallest and friendliest of any rooster I’ve known), putting his whole heart into those morning crows and every one of them bringing a little smile to my face. The pure joy of the adorable little kiddos, in their colorful rain boots, jumping in every little puddle they can find. -– So many treasured moments that could have been so easily overlooked with the fast pace of the world around us, but I’m forever grateful that the farm creates a sense of calm and serenity that encourages us all to hit pause and just be. here. now. ~Jessica Pollock, Financial Manager

Nature speaks to the people who hear the silence. People involved in activities of sowing seeds in the soil are the real worshippers of nature and God. From the day they prepare the soil for seeding to the day they harvest the produce from the seed they planted, they recite the word “God” either to ask for good weather and produce or to appreciate the good weather and produce. This connection with nature and God at the same time gives me the best satisfaction for the soul, along with organic and healthy food in daily life. Nature is therapy for the mind. It was a culture shock moving from the east part of the planet to the west, but I found a comfort zone in Soil Born with the nicest friends with a great attitude in a short time. It has been fun working here as I continue learning. I am very thankful to Soil Born and everyone here. Happiness is a magnet that attracts more happy faces. It is true because I find every single person who works here is very happy and satisfied. ~Shobha Giri-Thomas, Saturday Crew

Every so often I will walk the farm in the deepest time of the night. Whether deliberate or simply when sleep can’t find me, these walks always end up being very therapeutic. Recently, on December 8 I found myself on one of these adventures. Despite a waning moon, visibility was good enough to walk without a flashlight and still clearly observe most of the landscape. This particular evening had just followed a day of rain and as often happens, this resulted in a blanket of low misty fog hanging over the fields. When these conditions are present it feels like the land is breathing to me and overall has a quiet, protected and mystical aura. Bundled up to hold off a little of the chill, I wandered around and felt an intense aliveness to the place that I have not felt so strongly before. I am certainly more attuned to the rhythms of the place now that we have been here working the land for 16 years, but in that particular moment I felt with certitude that our intention of dedicated and thoughtful stewardship has helped awaken this ecosystem. The conditions for life to thrive are more present than ever before as a result of us being in a conscious and active relationship with this land. What an amazing gift of deeply felt feedback and inspiration! With great appreciation and humility, I will treasure that moment and use it to help fuel and inspire our continued work into the coming seasons. ~Shawn Harrison, Founder & Co-Director

Soil Born Farms Teen Empowerment program is the first step of employment for many youth in our community. This past year I’ve had the privilege of mentoring a diverse group of teens in the Farmhouse Kitchen. I recall the first time I met the crew, it was their orientation day, and we gathered together in Sacred Circle. They found as much distance from each other as possible, with a couple obvious friends glued together – there was an overall tentative energy, as this was a brand new experience for all of them.
Within just a couple weeks of working together, this awesome crew started showing up eager to work and learn, and stoked to see one another. Watching this seemingly shy group of teens break out of their shells, cultivating relationships, and learning to use their voices confidently and effectively has been truly inspiring.
They are given first hand experience with customer service, leadership skills through peer training, practice using their voice in a busy kitchen, food service skills, cooking & so much more. One of the more rewarding moments was when a parent shared that this job has fueled their kids love for cooking and they spend time practicing new kitchen skills, making healthier food choices and excited to make dinner for their families.
It’s no doubt this crew is growing into a group of young leaders ready to make change. They have taught me invaluable lessons on inclusivity and how to feel more confident in my own self. I can’t wait to see what this next year has in store for our teen crew. Your support helps Soil Born continue to be a safe and nurturing place for young minds to grow, learn & discover new versions of themselves. ~Gina Marraccini, Chef Educator

Every now and then something will happen that feels like a sign from the universe, that all is well. Many years ago when we were dreaming about how Soil Born Farms would evolve; I envisioned a learning center and gathering place for people of all ages with opportunities to interact, have fun and learn from each other. Ever since my own turbulent teenage years, I made a commitment to do something to support, mentor and empower young teens, if I managed to survive my own teen years. Phoebe’s Tea & Snack Bar came out of this commitment. It’s part of our Teen Empowerment & Job Training Program. We hire and train young teens to work with us on Saturday in the kitchen, on the farm, helping with our drive thru farmstand and running our snack bar. We give the teen crew an opportunity to cross train in several positions. We emphasize customer service, teamwork, good communication and skill building. It’s super satisfying to watch them grow in confidence. One day I was talking with one of our teens, a team lead in Phoebe’s. I asked if she wanted to move to a new area for a change of pace. She previously mentioned an interest in learning a new position. After thinking about it, she said that she had become friends with a few of our older customers who stopped by Phoebe’s every week. She really enjoyed their conversations and wished to continue to work as a cashier so she could see them. At that moment, tears formed in my eyes and I realized this was a sign from the universe letting me know that we are on the right track. Let’s bridge generation gaps and benefit from multi-generational wisdom. Your support helps us mentor more teens. ~Janet Zeller, Founder & Co-Director

Soil Born Farms – a place that has been my workplace and home away from home for over a decade. This year, however, marked a turning point as I brought my three-year-old son, Parker, to experience the magic that had shaped so much of my life. With his tiny hand in mine, we ventured into the Youth Garden. Parker’s eyes widened with wonder as he encountered his first feathery friend in the chicken coop. The delighted clucking of hens became the soundtrack to our adventure, and Parker’s infectious laughter echoed through the Youth Garden. His eyes sparkled as he discovered the joy of plucking ripe cherry tomatoes straight from the vine. It was a moment of pure connection, a passing of the torch from one generation to the next. The bean tunnel became our enchanted passageway, with vines creating a leafy canopy overhead. Parker ran through the arches, yelling “Chase me mom,” his laughter blending with the rustling leaves. In that simple act of play, I witnessed the beauty of Soil Born Farms – a place where nature and joy intertwined seamlessly. As we said goodbye to the chickens and the Youth Garden, I couldn’t help but feel a profound sense of gratitude for the role Soil Born Farms had played in shaping my life and now, my son’s. Parker, his cheeks flushed with the day’s adventures, looked up at me and asked, “Mom, can we come back tomorrow?” His innocent question echoed in my heart, and I realized that Soil Born Farms was more than a farm – it was a living, breathing testament to the power of community, growth, and love. It is a legacy that deserves to be nurtured, not just for me and Parker but for every family that could find joy and connection with this beautiful land. And so, I invite you to be a part of this story – to help Soil Born Farms continue its mission of sowing seeds of hope, one generation at a time. Your donation isn’t just a contribution; it’s a promise to preserve the magic that makes Soil Born Farms a haven for families like mine. Together, let’s cultivate a future where every child can run through bean tunnels, meet their first chicken, and create cherished memories in the embrace of Soil Born Farms. ~Michelle Sikora, Nutrition Coordinator

Everyday I eat lunch, I do so in Bird Tea Garden and Sanctuary. Underneath the trees I find myself in impactful moments of solitude. This I believe, is one of the most powerful things the farm offers to everyone. By allowing nature to consume us, we create opportunities for self reflection and healing. ~Caitlin Amburgey, Community Education & Events Coordinator

While we were hosting a group of young volunteers they found so much life while removing crops from the field. Worms, frogs, caterpillars, and even a few spiders. Their reactions ranged from excitement, wonder, and maybe a dash of fear (Spiders, you know). This experience wouldn’t be possible if Soil Born used synthetic fertilizers, herbicides, or pesticides. Creating a healthy ecosystem while farming takes understanding, patience, and sacrifice, but it creates an environment where kids can come to the farm, get their hands dirty, and learn from the wonders that mother nature provides. ~Stuart Burke-Jones, Gardens & Volunteer Coordinator

Soil Born Farms is a very special place. The vision this organization has for its local community and ecosystem is truly inspiring. It has been a privilege to watch Soil Born grow and see the impact that growth has had on the community. When you set foot on the farm you really get a sense of the collective hard work of a team that believes in what they are doing. All these things make Soil Born Farms a magical organization to be a part of. I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for this place! ~Steven Marraccini, Operations Coordinator

Upon my retirement from corporate life, I went from a volunteer to a part time employee, drawn by not only a desire to learn organic farming but also by the dedication and commitment to quality of every member of the staff. I have learned to inspect produce for the best quality with no insect bites or sunburn and the right size and firmness for the best taste. The produce is inspected when harvesting and again when packing to ensure that only the best is sold. The high quality of the produce is the result of the sustainable agriculture practiced at the farm without resorting to any harmful chemicals. It is gratifying to see the community show their appreciation and trust by repeatedly ordering their food from the farm week after week. This in turn energizes everyone at Soil Born Farms to give their best to earn and maintain that trust. ~George Abraham, Greenhouse Assistant

One pillar of Soil Born’s mission is to provide our community the resources and the knowledge to grow fresh produce at home. This is no small feat. However, this Fall, I had the opportunity to play a central role in an event that did just this. In partnership with the city’s Explore Rancho Cordova program that welcomes and orients new residents, Soil Born gave away 100 fruit trees to new members of the community. Not only that, these participants had the opportunity to come to the farm and take a free class on how to plant and care for their new tree. It’s one thing to give away the resource, it’s another to share the knowledge. To provide both leads to the greatest success. I am grateful to the support this program gave to our neighbors and the introduction it fostered between these new residents and Soil Born Farms. I am grateful for the connections I made on a personal level with these new community members and the friendship with Explore Rancho Cordova’s Program Manager Bee Lopez. I am grateful for the consistency of fresh produce a fruit tree provides when planted in a home garden.
~Emily Hain, Greenhouse & Fruit Tree Nursery Manager

My favorite memory at Soil Born Farms was during our summer day camp. On the 3rd day of camp, we went on a hike to the American River. On the way there, we tried to keep the children quiet to not scare the wildlife. While sometimes we did not see anything amazing, on this occasion, we came across a buck and a doe. To the left of the trail, the young buck was serene and grazing. A few yards ahead, the doe laid in between the tall grasses and rested. All 30 children plus the counselors observed quietly as we continued down the trail. The 30 seconds walking by gave me a sensation of peace and gave us an experience to observe deer at a short range. For many, it was the first time having an experience like this. For the rest of the hike, the image of the deer kept a smile on my face. ~Yvette Espinoza, Youth Educator

When I taught in the public school system there was nothing more calming than the flick of the classroom light switch in the morning and the peace of an empty room with only the gentle hum of the fluorescent lights above as I physically and mentally prepared for a new day of learning. Upon retirement from the classroom I was fortunate enough to find a place in the education wing of Soil Born where there is a new stillness to my early morning, one that includes gorgeous sunrises and the ever present sounds of farm work joyfully done by my fellow coworkers with such great care for this land that they are stewarding. And then there is the punctuating sound of laughter from the hundreds of students we serve in our homeschool programs, field trips, and summer camps that breaks the stillness, and drifts from different parts of the farm as we engage and explore with our hearts and minds this magical place. It is from this place of laughter that I see the children grow in community, where they see the inherent goodness of a fellow being’s heart. It is from this place of laughter that I see new connections forming as they learn about their natural world and the cultural significance of Soil Born Farms. It is from this place of laughter that I see them form ideas about what resource conservation and land regeneration might mean on a small scale in their lives at the present but lend themselves to more developed ways as they grow and continue their life’s journey. And it is from a place of laughter that I remain grateful for my place here at Soil Born Farms. ~Amy Tackett, Youth Educator

There I was in the middle of the Youth Garden on a late summer evening chasing a chicken named Betty. Running around with extended arms reaching and attempting to pick her up as gently and nicely as possible. I started to get nervous because my shift was coming to an end. I thought to myself, “ I do not want to be the new guy who let the chicken get eaten on his second week”. As I followed Betty around I came up with my first strategy, to walk up to her slowly and then quickly bend over and grab her. Didn’t work, she was too quick. Next I tried to get her to come to the coop by holding dirt in my hand like food. Didn’t work as upon closer inspection she could tell it was not food. She kept waddling away from me. At this point I was frustrated and thought to myself, “I am faster, bigger and stronger, she’s a tiny little chicken, I could out run her”. Poor little Betty didn’t see it coming and started running and flapping for her life. I chased her through the bean tunnel, through the garden beds, and then towards the chicken coop. The sheer birdness of this chicken’s get away, she was flapping, ducking under plants, going through chicken wire, it was like she was trying to go in every direction all at once. In spite of that I made sure to follow her and chase her down. After about a minute she started to slow down and give up. I reached down and quickly picked her up with no trouble. As she and I both caught our breath I put her on the chicken tractor in the coop, locked the gate, took a deep breath, and thought to myself, “I like that, that was fun.”

Soil Born Farm gave me the opportunity to see if I would like to have chickens of my own one day. Turns out the chickens have proven to be one of my favorite parts of the day. Every morning when I get to their coop to check on them, they can’t contain their excitement, they run to me, wait for me, surround me and give me love pecks. Everyone should have chickens at home. They are such a joy. ~Nolan Kirby, Youth Educator

It has always been my deepest desire to inspire youth to become changemakers, that they might champion the needs of our earth and lead others to steward our environment. This is not always easy and at times it can be very discouraging, but what has impacted me most this year at Soil Born are the small revelations that students, young and old, make when they are touched by the work of our organization. In a recent reflection with our college interns I was struck by some of the lessons they had learned while working at our school garden programs. One intern shared that she never realized how challenging it is to work with a large group of kids outside, but that she also felt moved by the curiosity, passion, and attitude of wonder the students demonstrated. She expressed having felt very nervous to lead a class, but that the risk was ultimately worth it. She has realized that you don’t learn unless you are out of your comfort zone. In the end, she reflected on the fact that she is now able to see education as a possible career pathway. It is my hope that these students and many others will be impacted by this land and the programs of Soil Born so deeply that their future careers and life choices will be impacted and in turn they will impact others. ~Shannon Hardwicke, Education Programs Manager

Year after year, I continue to be inspired by the American River Ranch and the community it attracts. This special piece of land brings me joy and awe each time I am on it. From dawn to dusk, there is always something that takes my breath away. Foggy and dewey mornings, bright middays and afternoons, amazing sunsets, all give me the chance to pause and reflect on my day, week, year, and life. The work that has been done to improve the ecology on the land in just the 7 years since I first visited it, is beyond impressive. Tunnels in the main production field that grow greens and other produce while reducing water usage and increasing soil health, bird boxes and hawk poles that support a variety of aves who pollinate crops and reduce pests, and intentional outdoor classrooms and thoughtful demonstration gardens that provide endless learning opportunities for our community all bring me tremendous joy and make me proud to be apart of such a special project. This land and the people who steward it, come to enjoy it or learn from it all give me a sense of belonging and a stage for personal growth and healing. This year in particular, I have found much joy in the community who come out to participate in the beauty of this land. During my pregnancy and recovery from birth, I felt comforted, loved and supported by the community. The land and people continue to heal me as I journey into a new role of motherhood. I am grateful for the land which allows me to heal within nature and the people who support and lift me up. I cannot think of a better place to raise my daughter than the American River Ranch. ~Vanessa Forwood, Operations Manager