Jim Sanders, an environmentalist and farmer, is the owner of Wildflower Lane Farm in North Carolina. Jim has some great stories about how he came into farming and his fun and not so fun experiences with trying to build a farming business. All along, Jim knew and was reminded by some friends, that there had to be a better way, a more sustainable way.
Jim decided to take another approach to feeding local people. The existing system made small scale farming frustrating and difficult. But what if the money factor were removed from the business model? Jim came up with an idea that would enable him to do what he loved – growing food for people – while removing it from the business cycle that was proving to be unsatisfying. He would do this by shifting non profit funds used to pay for fresh produce from wholesalers and retailers to local farmers who would grow for them.
He walked into the office of a local non profit called Table, explained his concept, and asked them to try it out with him. The Executive Director of TABLE, who you will hear from directly in an upcoming episode, after a little due diligence, was open to Jim’s idea, shifted some funds his way, and took the leap of faith.
Ultimately, this decision reaped so many positive benefits for Jim, Table, and, most critically, the community members that TABLE serves. Every year, TABLE has shifted more funds to growing with local farmers vs. purchasing produce, demonstrating the strength and impact of Jim’s concept. In addition, other organizations have also adopted a similar approach by shifting their funds to work with farmers and local producers like Jim.
I am grateful that farmers and creative thinkers like Jim who are willing to walk through that door and put their ideas out there. Jim’s idea has had a direct impact on food security in North Carolina and beyond. This is also a testament that existing local organizations can and should collaborate and join forces, shift funds to local sourcing, and ultimately increase access to nutritious food for everyone.
Enjoy my inspiring conversation with Jim Sanders.
Wildflower Lane Farm - Growing food for local kids
TABLE - feeding local kids
PORCH - setting out to fight hunger
Chocolate Tastings @ Berkshire Farm Sanctuary - Register Now
Thank you for taking the time to listen to The Agri-Tourist Podcast, for supporting our inspirational guests, and for sharing my personal journey back to agriculture.
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