Why

Purpose of Community Engagement

I have had numerous and consistent success in my life and career. Whenever I can I support giving back to my community in whatever way I am able. Sometimes that may be monetary donations, but most often it is giving back the most precious commodity, time. I love sharing my time and energy with children.

There can be no keener revelation of a society’s soul than the way in which it treats its children.” — Nelson Mandela, Former President of South Africa

Community Engagement with Children

Mission of Rogue Valley Farm to School Program:

Education Programs: Educates children about our food system through hands-on farm and garden programs, and by increasing local foods in school meals. We inspire an appreciation of local agriculture that improves the economy and environment of our community and the health of its members.

Students learn about local organic agriculture and nutrition through hands on activities that incorporate math, science, art and writing as well as practical life skills such as cooking, gardening, problem solving, and working together.

Volunteer at Rogue Valley Farm to School

Judy introduces children to how plants grow and encourages them to taste fruits and vegetable from the garden. Judy educates children at the harvest meal education programs where students learn about the source of their food and harvest food directly from the garden. She leads them in cooking classes, as they prepare their own lunch at the farm, from what they harvested from the garden. The farm education program includes a variety of age-students and Judy facilities lessons and activities in the field and kitchen. Judy works with the tasting tables where samples of a local, seasonal fruit or vegetable are prepared and are offered to elementary school students in their own cafeteria. Students taste the samples and get to vote on their favorite. Judy inspires children at preschool to first grade pumpkin tours. Some even take home a pumpkin!

Testimonials

"Judy has volunteered with Rogue Valley Farm to School for over 7 years. She has taught preschool-8th grade students about growing food, eating healthy, and respecting the natural world. On-farm Harvest Meal programs allow students to engage in all aspects of food production from the seed to the table. Judy has led groups of children harvesting food, preparing lunch in the outdoor kitchens, and exploring the different farms that partner with RVF2S.

Judy has a special way with children. She is kind, patient and full of love and compassion. Judy meets students wherever they are and finds a way to connect and really appreciate each individual.

Judy has an exceptional gift with the children that have visited who have had more challenges in their lives. She quickly establishes trust with even the most timid child and draws them out to really participate in the experience. Judy has also assisted in training other volunteers to work with our program. She is a natural teacher. Judy has been one of the best volunteers we have ever had the privilege of working with, she is dependable, encouraging, creative and supportive."

Melina Barker

Program Director, Rogue Valley Farm to School

"Oh Judy. We are so grateful for you-thank you over and over! Your contributions-and they are many-are helping us to build a healthier community. Thank you so much"

Tracy Harding,

Executive Director, Rogue Valley Farm to School

Inspiration

Every week hundreds of children are diagnosed with cancer. At the time of diagnosis, the children and their families feel overwhelmed with the news. It is important for children and families to know that the community cares for them. Basket of Hope brings hope and joy during difficult times.

Judy loves children

Judy volunteers her time with the Basket of Hope, Greater New Orleans chapter. Judy loves working with children in any type of capacity and feels it is an honor to be able to bring "hope" and inspiration to pediatric patients in need. During the COVID-19 pandemic, many in the hospital need our support, to include patients, families, and health care workers. We are most grateful to all healthcare workers! You all are true heroes!

BOH Mission

Basket of Hope's mission is to give hope to children diagnosed with cancer or other serious illness through the delivery of a Basket of Hope filled with toys, games, craft items, stuffed animals, gift cards, and other items. Hope Totes are optional for the parents and contain gifts to nourish them physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

High School Mentoring Program for Students Pursuing Careers in Medicine

"Ms. Judy, It was so great to meet and work with you! I honestly learned so much more about the Hemolytic Disease of the Fetus and Newborn from you, and understood it so well from your explanations. I went home and told my mom everything I learned and she told me that my brother was born 3 weeks early and he started to turn yellow! I thought it was so interesting. Thank you so much for all of your help!"

M. Bosco

High School Student,

Anatomy and Physiology Class

Archbishop Chapelle High School

Fundraising

Avon Breast Cancer walk to raise money for breast cancer awareness. Walked over 40 miles in San Francisco in 2 days. Raised over $ 2500.00. Walked in memory and celebration of those people I love with breast cancer.