Nina Marcinowski
Letter in support of the Many Hands Sustainability Center
July 13th, 2008
The Many Hands Organic Farm has meant a great deal to my family for many years. I have been a working shareholder in the CSA for 13 years. I think it is very important to eat healthy natural foods, and we are fortunate to have this source of organic, locally grown, vegetables, fruit, and meat. I am happy to be able to support a local farm where people are treated well and encouraged to work hard and enjoy the fruits of their labors.
This work has been an important part of my life not only for the healthy food it provides but also for the life experience it has given me. My family is always glad when Mom has been working on the farm. The work and the interaction with all of the people who work on the farm are emotionally therapeutic. Being outside in the fresh air and doing physical activity is not only good for our children; it is also good for us as adults. I get a sense of accomplishment when I see all of the vegetables growing from seeds and seedlings I helped plant. There is nothing like looking back at a bed that has just been weeded.
In the last two years I have worked with former prisoners on the farm. I was skeptical about the value these men would provide, and about working with former prisoners. I had never known anyone who had been in jail, and was a little nervous about working with them. Their tattoos and way of speaking were not what I was used to. Some of these men hardly knew how vegetables grew, had spent little time outside, or done any outdoor gardening work.
My opinion has changed dramatically. These men are people just like the rest of us. They are friendly, personable and hard workers. The farm has never looked better or produced as much food. They have started eating vegetables they had never even heard of, and cooking the share of vegetables they take home every week. I think by the way they talk and act that their farm experience has made a big difference in their lives. They are physically and emotionally healthier.
Julie Rawson and Jack Kittredge have opened their home to these former prisoners. They have provided a supportive atmosphere where these men are encouraged to do important work. Julie and Jack are providing a valuable service not only to these former prisoners but also to the local community these men have come from. One of the former prisoners now works full time on the farm and lives with his family in neighboring town. Last month, when attending a fund raising event for Dismas House, I was pleased to hear how much the staff appreciated the opportunities offered to the members of the program by Julie and Jack. This type of program needs to continue to rehabilitate former prisoners and give them alternative view of life.
Nina Marcinowski