Dear Supporters and Friends,

 

Nearly 30 years ago, I had an idea and an opportunity: to create a new kind of community where adults with disabilities could thrive and engage in meaningful work. I didn’t have any background in agriculture, but a small family farm gave me the space and support to plant the seeds of my vision. I named the little farm Red Wiggler as a metaphor – earthworms do important work but often go unnoticed, as do adults with disabilities – and with very little farming experience and even less experience running a nonprofit, I broke ground on Red Wiggler’s first season in 1996 with one tractor, five Growers, and twelve CSA shares. 

 

It is so heartening to see that same mission being served every day, now on twelve acres, with three times as many Growers, and our food being distributed throughout our Montgomery County community. We’ve hired Growers with disabilities who are now seasoned farmers and leaders. We’ve welcomed thousands of students to experience firsthand where their food comes from, and summer interns who’ve gone on to run their own farms. And we’ve distributed enormous amounts of fresh, organic produce to those who need it most. Today, Red Wiggler is seen as a true leader and example of what is possible for Care Farms, and we’re sharing what we have learned with other farms around the world through our Care Farming Network. 

 

I have long considered what succession would look like at Red Wiggler, and I’m grateful to our Board of Directors for supporting me as I transition into the role of Founder. It is humbling for me to reach this important milestone. I’ll still be very present on the farm and will be working to support Red Wiggler with vision, mentorship, and stewardship of our core values. But the daily leadership will be in the hands of someone I trust deeply and admire, Kara McCall. 

 

Kara has been a steadfast presence at Red Wiggler for more than 15 years. She knows our programs, our staff and our stories, and she brings heart, experience and clarity to the path ahead. I couldn’t be more confident or excited to see her step into the Executive Director role.

 

All of our success has been made possible by our dedicated staff, donors, board, volunteers, program participants, and community as a whole. Every day at the farm is meaningful for all of us as we learn and work together.

 

I am sincerely grateful for the support you have shown me and this organization, and I look forward to being part of Red Wiggler’s continued success. 

 

With heartfelt gratitude,

 

Woody Woodroof