When I think of well run, visionary organizations, I think of GRUB. Ever evolving in thoughful and impactful ways, this organization helps youth better understand how they can make a difference in their own lives and in the community, and helps low income families access fresh, healthy food through their kitchen garden project. They have figured out ways to engage the community in their vision, which is one aspect of their success.
As a former staff at GRuB I had the privilege to work within the organization as it grew and evolved over the years. The quality of the organization that stands out most for me is the emphasis on making GRuB a place where everyone is welcome. And the staff don't just say this, they actively work to make it real everyday. If you want to be inspired, welcomed and amazed by stellar community work definitely check them out!
About six years ago, I read a notice that GRuB was looking for people to help stuff envelopes for a few hours. I had been curious about GRuB, so I went. I found a group of staff and youth crew employees who were friendly, open and giving from their hearts. Over the years I've volunteered for a number of duties. Certainly what is at the basis of GRuB is growing good food (and I've eaten my share), but what I enjoy most is watching young people venture into GRuB and come to understand the integral role they play in the health and well-being of our community, particularly in building kitchen gardens for people with low incomes, helping them to better nutrition and self-sufficiency. I see how the staff at GRuB genuinely care for the youth who come to work at the farm and marvel at how quickly the youth begin to express themselves in positive terms. I find that I have grown tremendously in my understanding of myself, not only my own relevance in the community but everyone's, in the years I've spent with GRuB, its staff and its youth crews. This year marks a period of expansion and risk taking at GRuB as they extend into new educational and community opportunities. They will need additional funding and supporters. But they belong to a strong network of community advocates and I've heard many times people say, "If it can be done, GRuB can do it."
