“Spring is proof that there is beauty in new beginnings.”
Matshona Dhliwayo
Dear Growing Veterans Community,
As spring takes hold, Growing Veterans is entering the 2026 growing season with tremendous momentum. Over the past two months, we have planted a wide variety of crops, donated more than 200 pounds of organic broccoli to the Ferndale Food Bank, and prepared thousands of seedlings that will help us expand fresh food production throughout the summer. Our programs continue to thrive through partnerships such as Warriors on the Water, weekly beekeeping classes, and volunteer support from local businesses and community members.
We are also expanding our community capacity through strategic outreach and education. This spring, we connected with new supporters by tabling and participating in events at Texas Roadhouse, the Western Washington University Community Partners Event, and Otherlands Beer, and by speaking to students and faculty at an assembly at Seattle Preparatory School. We are grateful to welcome four interns from Western Washington University and one intern from Whatcom Community College, whose energy and talent are strengthening our work.
We also want to recognize Chantelle Jordinelli from University of Puget Sound, who recently completed her doctoral capstone in occupational therapy. Chantelle developed a therapeutic gardening protocol for Growing Veterans, grounded in peer-reviewed research and evidence-based techniques. Her work will help us further refine the healing aspects of our programming for years to come, and she will be greatly missed on the farm.
At the same time, we have strengthened our foundation through media outreach, fundraising events, and significant grant opportunities that will help sustain and grow our impact. With every seed planted and every connection made, we are reminded that growth happens both in the soil and in the lives of the veterans and community members we serve.
The growing season is starting strong, and the only thing we are missing is you. All are welcome on the farm, and we would love to have you join us for a farm tour, some Dirt Therapy, or to build community at one of our Friday Coffee Check-Ins. No farming experience is necessary just come as you are
Yours in Community,
GV Staff
