I have had the pleasure of working with James Helliwell on his most recent on-going project. James is unique in that he allows the project to develop according to the needs of the people who will benefit from the services provided instead of following a personal agenda. He is passionate and compassionate, yet at the same time, his mission always includes the aspect of empowering the clients to help themselves. For example, giving children the responsibility of tending a garden or developing a homeless project that combines job training and development with cooperative living skills. He looks at the whole person and never sees limits within them. The respect he has for his clients - from youth to the aged - can only result in an increase in self-respect and a desire for a better life. I look forward to this latest plan coming to fruition.
The green team helped children who were neglect or forgotten to feel good about themselves. People like James Helliwell have made a difference demonstrating the passion they feel about changing these children's lives and giving of themselves to improve the life and perspective of the next generation.
I was very impressed with the dedication and motivation of the Green team staff, and especially Mr. Helliwell.
Sincerely,
(Ms.) Nair M. Orioli
I have known James Helliwell both as a business professional and friend for over 20 years. I have worked with James in the "early days" when the organization was known as the Home Agriculture Foundation, creating sustainable agriculture in the Greater Los Angeles area for inner city families.
I have witnessed James work with both young individuals as well as the elderly. James is an extremely compassionalte "down-to-earth" role model, who possesses the experience and knowledge to associate in a positive manner with a diverse level of individuals. He possesses the ability to relate with at-risk youth, the elderly in need of assistance, and in general individuals who are in need of care to nurture, encourage, and educate these individuals.
The Green Team is an organization that nurtures our environment as well as our people. Their talent in working with out of school youth, prison reentry and the public, combined with their expertise in sustainability, home agriculture and organic farming is a winning combination. Their programs make our world a better place, give youth and others a way to be productive members of society and help build a sustainable world. James Helliwell's depth of expertise in agriculture and his commitment to youth and those at risk makes The Green Team an organization that can make a huge difference in our communities.