Category: Opal’s Farm

Autumn, Community, Down On the Farm, Farmers Markets, Food Deserts, Food Insecurity, Food Justice, Gratitude, Hope, Marginalized, Neighbors, Non-Profits, Nutrition, Opal's Farm, Regeneration, Service to Others, Social Justice, Summer, Thoughts From the Porch, Volunteers

What a Year It’s Been

gregoryjoel

September is finally here, and meteorological autumn has begun. I’d like to think that truly means the end of summer, but I live in Texas, so I know better. We’ll still see some hot days but hopefully no more triple-digit-temperatures. All-all we’ve had a mild summer compared to the last three or four years. We even had rain in July and August, which is rare indeed. Opal’s Farm, with the new fall seed, loves it.

Today is one of the one-in-seven instances that the Labor Day holiday falls on the first day of September. Those who get the day off will be spending time barbequing with family and friends or simply catching up some sorely needed rest. Thanks to the rain this morning I get to spend some time at the desk and reflect on what Labor Day truly means. Labor Day isn’t always a holiday for farmers, so I thought I’d take advantage of the weather to play catch up on the recent farm news.

Most of you all are aware of the cutbacks that led to staff layoffs at the first of the year. Add to that an April knee injury and I’ve been working a bit slower than usual this year. I also had to scale back the amount of land we were cultivating to our original one acre. The good news is that we were still able to surpass last year’s total in pounds of produce grown. That’s what happens as the soil becomes healthier with each passing season. That’s why farming regeneratively is one of our core values.

Stacey Harwood, our Volunteer Coordinator, has remained on staff although paychecks have been a bit erratic this spring and summer. She’s been with Opal’s for six years now and has become a loved member of Opal’s family (we may be a non-profit but we’re really a family farm!). She’s done an excellent job of working with our volunteers and we’ve had some great groups and individuals come out to work on the farm. If you have volunteered with us, please know there’s no way to adequately tell you how much you mean to us. We’ve been able to get so much more completed with your help. Your impact has reached far beyond just the farm to the tables and people across the communities we serve.

Help is treasured, but the reality is that most days it’s just me at the farm. That’s not always so bad though. I’ve really thought about how we can serve our community better. One way we have done that is to open Opal’s Farm Stand every Saturday from 1 PM to 3 PM at the “Doc” Sessions Community Center Parking lot (201 S. Sylvania – the corner of 4th and Sylvania).

Opal’s Farm Stand offers more affordable prices for our quality organic produce to our neighbors. We are also a SNAP/EBT retailer and began offering Double Up Bucks two weeks ago with the help of Texas Health Resources Community Hope and Double Up Texas. SNAP participants can redeem up to thirty dollars in SNAP benefits to purchase fresh produce. Those thirty dollars then becomes sixty dollars, doubling their purchasing power.

We’re still at Cowtown Farmers Market most Saturday mornings, but our emphasis is switching from so much being sold at retail to lower pricing for our community. To be honest, it’s a bit of a financial risk. It takes time to build a market location. Farmers live on slim profit margins. People fail to realize the work that goes into growing good heathy food. That’s why Cowtown offers great food at a fair price.

Unfortunately, farmers markets are not always accessible to marginalized neighborhoods: either in location or pricing. We’re so grateful to be a part of the WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program at Cowtown. The market and our regular customers are a blessing to us. They’ve helped sustain Opal’s financially and we wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for them. However, we will be taking less produce to Cowtown so that more is available to the neighborhoods we serve through Opal’s Farm Stand.

We also want to extend a heartfelt thanks to Jesse Herrera of CoAct and the Funkytown Mindful Market. Their market is held on the first Saturday of every month at Texas Wesleyan University (1201 Wesleyan in Polytechnic Heights). They’ve been purchasing Opal’s Farm produce to sell to the Eastside neighborhoods they serve. The next market will be held on September 6th from 11 AM to 2 PM.

I would be remiss if I didn’t give a shout-out to the Dallas Wings WNBA and the Texas Fence Association. In January, they built a chain link fence around our bio-intensive third of an acre. The Dallas Wings front office spent a volunteer day at the farm and got so much done that I am in awe of them. They’ll be returning in September and the Texas Fence Association will return to fence another third of an acre (you all are amazing!).

Our first cohort of Taste the C.U.R.E., in partnership with Tarleton State University, graduated on June 28th. The students did a great job of learning and using bio-intensive farming methods. Several have kept their farm plots while others have chosen to take the knowledge they learned and apply it to their own backyards and neighborhoods. The next cohort starts in February and more details will be forthcoming.

Finally, I want to remind our readers of the importance of today, Labor Day. It was signed into law June 28th, 1894, by President Grover Cleveland following the Pullman strike and decades of struggle by the US labor movement as industrialization grew throughout the end of the nineteenth century. Labor Day is a day to remember and celebrate the sacrifices of the US labor movement and honor their achievements and the prosperity we enjoy today.

Have a great holiday. Enjoy your family and your neighbors. Stop by and see us at Opal’s Farm. We’d love to have you join the family!

Activism, Community, Down On the Farm, Education, Emotional Health, Food Equality, Food Insecurity, Food Justice, Gardening, Gratitude, Marginalized, Neighbors, Non-Profits, Opal's Farm, Relationships, Respect, Service Organizations, Service to Others, Thoughts From the Porch, Unity Unlimited, Inc., Urban Farming, Volunteers, What Can I Do

Volunteer for Opal’s Farm: Making a Difference

gregoryjoel

Volunteering for Opal’s Farm is a noble pursuit, offering the chance to give back to your community, learn new skills, and make meaningful connections. However, to maximize your impact—not just for the organization, but for yourself as well—it’s important to approach volunteering with intention, preparation, and a spirit of collaboration. This comprehensive guide explores the steps and mindset that can help you become an effective, valued volunteer for Opal’s Farm and Unity Unlimited, Inc.

Is Opal’s Right for You?

One of the cornerstones of effective volunteering is choosing the right organization. To do this, reflect on the causes or issues that resonate most deeply with you. Are you passionate about education, healthcare, the arts, social justice, or environmental sustainability? When your personal interests align with Opal’s mission, you are far more likely to remain committed and enthusiastic.

  • Research: Please visit our website http://www.unityunlimited.org/opalsfarm
  • Assess Needs: Consider the type of work Opal’s Farm does and the roles available for volunteers. Some people say that not everyone is cut out for farming. That may be true to some extent -farming is not always easy, especially in North Texas. July and August may not be the best time to volunteer because of the heat: although we have a wonderful group from KPMG that comes on August 6th (their Founder’s Day) and works all day in the summer sun (Please know how much you’re appreciated KPMG!).

If the field isn’t the place for you there’s other opportunities in both administration and marketing.

  • Contact and Inquire: Don’t hesitate to reach out to our Volunteer Coordinator, Stacey Harwood. Stacey can be reached by phone or text at 817.819.7770 and by email at opalsfarm@unityunlimited.org. Stacey can fill you in on the volunteer days, hours, and special events such as our Volunteer Appreciation Cookout every 4th of July!

Setting Realistic Expectations

Volunteering is rewarding, but it can also be challenging. To avoid burnout or disappointment, set clear, realistic expectations for your involvement.

  • Time Commitment: Some of our regular volunteers come every week, especially on harvest days, some have monthly commitments, while others simply come when they have time. We don’t require a commitment as much as we would just like you to come out and find the joy of “dirt therapy” and serving the community.
  • Skills and Contributions: Reflect on what you bring to the table. Are you offering professional expertise (such as accounting, graphic design, or event planning) or general support (like distributing food or mentoring youth)?
  • Learning and Growth: Be open to learning but also communicate if there are skills or experiences you hope to gain through volunteering. We love to help volunteers expand their farming / gardening skills. Our hope is that our volunteers carry the skills they’ve learned at the farm to their own homes and neighborhoods.

Building Relationships and Collaborating

Effective volunteering is about more than just the work you do—it’s about the relationships you build. Cultivate strong, respectful relationships with staff, fellow volunteers, and the people or communities you serve. The farm doesn’t just grow and distribute healthy, fresh produce. We strive for a community of service and fellowship, bringing all our neighbors together in unity.

  • Be Professional and Respectful: Treat everyone with kindness and consideration, regardless of position or background.
  • Communicate Clearly: If issues arise or you are unable to fulfill a commitment, let Stacey know as soon as possible. Stacey will communicate when must shift or cancel volunteer times due to special events and staffing issues as well.
  • Embrace Teamwork: Opal’s loves collaboration. Is there something we can do better or are there positive partnerships we may be missing out on.

Staying Engaged and Motivated

Sustaining motivation in a volunteer role may require effort, especially over the long term. Here are some strategies:

  • Connect with the Mission: Regularly remind yourself why you chose to volunteer. Attend organizational events, read newsletters, and celebrate successes.
  • Seek Feedback: Constructive feedback helps you improve and demonstrates that your contributions are valued.
  • Reflect on Impact: Take time to notice and appreciate the difference your efforts make, whether it’s a smile, a thank-you note, or a tangible change in your community.

Demonstrating Flexibility and Adaptability

Non-profit work can be unpredictable. Program needs may shift, funding may fluctuate, or emergencies may arise. The most effective volunteers are those who can adapt gracefully to change.

  • Be Open-Minded: Embrace new tasks or responsibilities as they come up. Versatility is a valuable asset.
  • Problem-Solve Creatively: When challenges arise, seek solutions proactively rather than focusing solely on obstacles.
  • Support Others: Offer help to fellow volunteers or staff who may be struggling, and ask for assistance when you need it.

Understanding Boundaries and Self-Care

Helping others is rewarding, but it should not come at the expense of your own well-being. Recognize your boundaries and practice self-care.

  • Know Your Limits: Don’t overextend yourself. We don’t want anyone to have issues with the weather – especially the Texas summers. Stay hydrated and take breaks when you need to. We want everyone to have a great day at the farm. Let us know if problems arise or another task is more oriented to your skills and abilities.

Measuring and Celebrating Your Impact

Regularly assessing your contributions can be highly motivating and ensures that your efforts are aligned with the organization’s goals.

  • Track Outcomes: Ask how your work fits into these larger outcomes.
  • Share Stories: Celebrate milestones—both big and small. Sharing stories of impact can inspire others and reaffirm your commitment.
  • Solicit Recognition: Don’t be shy about sharing your accomplishments with your supervisor or team, especially if you believe it may help the farm or enhance your future volunteer roles.

Continuing Your Volunteer Journey

As you grow in your role, you may discover new interests or skills. Consider taking on additional responsibilities, mentoring new volunteers, or even serving on a board or committee. Ongoing learning and engagement deepen your impact and foster a richer, more fulfilling experience.

Remember, the most effective volunteers aren’t just those who give the most time—they are the ones who give with heart, purpose, and adaptability. By approaching your volunteer work thoughtfully and proactively, you help create stronger, more resilient organizations and, ultimately, a more compassionate world.

Conclusion

Volunteering at Opal’s Farm is a powerful way to contribute to the greater good and enrich your own life. Opal’s volunteers often tell us how much it affects their physical, mental, and spiritual heath in amazingly positive ways. Whether you are volunteering for the first time or are a seasoned community member, your efforts truly matter. The journey of service is a continuous learning process, filled with opportunities for growth, connection, and real change.

Activism, Choices, Citizenship, Community, Democracy, Events, Faith, Hope, Juneteenth, Neighbors, Opal's Farm, Responsibility, Revival, Social Justice, Thoughts From the Porch, Unity Unlimited, Inc.

What a Nice Surprise

gregoryjoel

(Side Note – I just saw that my last post was on June 1st. June is always busy with all the Juneteenth activities hosted by Unity Unlimited, Inc. and Opal’s Farm. Just as a side note to all those I follow regularly – I have fallen so far behind your posts and emails that I’ve had to send them to the archives in the hope that someday I may time to read them. That’s one of the most difficult parts of this month as it deepens the sense of disconnection from the people I most enjoy. Please know that I think of you all often and hope to stay current going forward into July.)

June may be busy but it has also been full of hope and joy during a time when so many folks are struggling under the onus of grief, anger, and depression caused by the chaos, hatefulness, and uncertainty coming from Washington D.C. on a daily, sometimes hourly, basis. In response to this madness, large rallies and protests were held around the country, from small villages and towns to major cities, on June 14th called “No Kings Day”. Even here in Fort Worth, a crowd of around 7500 people met at Burkburnett Park and marched through downtown Fort Worth in a peaceful, non-violent protest. The turnout was quite unexpected in this extremely conservative, deeply red, city. Moreover, it was a widely diverse crowd including moderates, progressives, and even some conservatives who stand against the heavy-handed authoritarianism coming from the current administration.

This may not sound like a big deal compared to other crowds around the country, but even during the height of the protests when George Floyd was brutally murdered in 2020, the crowd size never grew over two thousand. Perhaps more folks are beginning to see behind the MAGA curtain and becoming willing to act. I can only hope.

I was asked to speak at the rally (which was advertised as non-partisan, mind you) about the importance of changing our local food system in light of all the events we struggle with today and the importance of being able to grow our own food. I’ve always believed that planting a garden is a revolutionary act. It changes the perception of both the grower and the food system itself. Local food is a threat to the old ways of the distribution of ultra-processed, unhealthy, food void of proper nutrients, particularly in vulnerable urban neighborhoods.

Juneteenth was only a few days later and there was no shortage of Juneteenth activities this year even though many other cities cancelled or cutback their celebrations this year. Ms. Opal Lee’s annual “Walk for Freedom” was supported by over 2600 walkers this year in Fort Worth; not the mention those that participated in our host cities – New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Tokyo, Japan – or walked virtually in their own towns across the country and the world. I got a post from New Zealand about a young lady whose family joined in the walk despite the twenty-hour time difference!

We finished the week on Sunday with Sen. Bernie Sanders and the “Fighting Oligarchy” tour at Dickies Arena here in Fort Worth. His commitment to speaking to truth in deeply red states is sorely needed and appreciated in times like these. I’m a firm believer that had the DNC party apparatus not blocked him from of the 2016 Presidential nomination in favor of Hillary Clinton, things would be much different today. Just saying…

The events of this June here in conservative Tarrant County, Texas have given me a glimmer of hope. These days I will take hope wherever and however I find it. I think we all should. The constant onslaught of chaos and immoral policies (note that these are immoral, not simple political policies and choices – I’m not speaking from a political framework) drives us all to a state of hopelessness. That’s exactly where the powers that be want us to be. It’s easier to control and hurt quiet people. Thanks Fort Worth for making your voice louder this month. Now let’s get louder…

Community, Down On the Farm, Environment, Faith, Food Justice, Giving, Gratitude, Neighbors, Non-Profits, Opal's Farm, Persistence, Service Organizations, Service to Others, Simplicity, Spring, Texas, Thoughts From the Porch, Unity Unlimited, Inc., Urban Farming

Tiny Heads of Blue

gregoryjoel

I was driving home on I-30 from the farm last Tuesday. Tiny spots of blue caught my attention as I sat in the rush-hour traffic. They were the first Bluebonnets I’ve seen this year. The frustration from the slow-moving traffic vanished; replaced by a sudden desire to pull off to the side of the interstate and take a picture.

Bluebonnets are the state flower of Texas and rightly so. They announce that Spring is finally here and will soon blanket the side of roadways and highways in a carpet of blue. The other wildflowers – Indian Paintbrush, Winecup, Mexican Hat, Indian Blanket, Evening Primrose, etc. – will soon paint the roadsides of the highways and country roads in vibrant reds, oranges, yellows, and of course, blues. Bluebonnets always lay the foundation for nature’s paintbrush.

Families will soon be pulling off the road to take pictures of the family amidst the field of color. This is a annual Texas tradition. I often wonder if photographers consider this one of their busy seasons. The only sad part is that family photographs often leave matted-down holes in the blue-hued fields.

Photo by Janice Carriger on Pexels.com

 I really needed the Bluebonnets this year. The experts at the Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center predicted a mixed wildflower season this year because of the drought facing West Texas. Winter was relatively mild. Even a muted wildflower season reminds me why resilience is one of our core values at Opal’s Farm.

The craziness and in both Austin (our state legislature is in session) and Washington D.C. makes for an uncertain future for many non-profits like ours and small farmers everywhere. I’ve had to take a break from the news lately except for local news stations and that’s mostly for the weather reports. It doesn’t mean that I plan to bury my head in the sand. It simply means there is more time to see the Bluebonnets, to enjoy Spring, and get lots of food out to folks. Opal’s Farm, like the Bluebonnets, will keep growing food, loving people, and building community.

Climate Change, Community, Down On the Farm, Environment, Neighbors, Opal's Farm, Service Organizations, Service to Others, Texas, Thoughts From the Porch, Unity Unlimited, Inc., Urban Farming

West Texas Winds

gregoryjoel

Good morning to our Opal’s Farm family. We’ve had a great week down at the farm. We been busy with Spring planting and most of the farm didn’t even blow away! Some empty rain barrels were blown about a quarter-mile down the farm but other than that we suffered little wind damage. I hope you all (and all your patio furniture) stayed grounded during this March outburst.

Folks may place Fort Worth in north central Texas but it is where the west begins. We got a reminder when the wind brought West Texas to us in the form of a major dust cloud. The haze in the air reminded us of old sepia-toned photographs of Fort Worth. When I took my wife to her son’s house in Haslet Friday it was scenes from the Dust Bowl. Given the looming threat of higher prices and possible recession we might be reliving the thirties. History may not repeat itself but it’s definitely circular.

It all reminded me of a song I thought I’d share this Sunday morning. I think of it on windy west Texas days like we’ve had this week…