Category: Urban Farming

Activism, Citizenship, Community, Equal Rights, Events, Faith, Gratitude, Hope, Love, Non-Profits, Opal's Farm, Revival, Service to Others, Social Justice, Thoughts From the Porch, Unity Unlimited, Inc., Urban Farming, Volunteers, What Can I Do

Protests and Service

gregoryjoel

This year has been rough. I had to lay off my help in January due to funding cuts. My own paycheck has been infrequent this year making it difficult financially. Many of my friends in the farming and in the non-profit communities find themselves in similar situations. I blew my left knee out in April and the knee replacement surgery I was looking forward to this November has been delayed due to post-op infection risks discovered in my surgical clearance appointments – probably until next Fall. Listening to the news gets more depressing each day. Authoritarian rule and economic crisis are a black cloud that constantly hovers overhead. Honestly, it gets a bit overwhelming.

Fortunately, I get constant reminders of God’s grace and providence on those days when it all seems to be a bit too much. I had a couple of those this week. The first one came in the form of two great volunteer groups that came out to the farm. First Financial Bank came to the farm on Monday. This was their tenth anniversary of their “Day of Service” they do each year to give back to their local community. We are so grateful for choosing us for the second year to be the recipient of their service day. We all had a great time together and an incredible amount of work got done. We want to give a shout-out to Sandra Martinez, who organized the day for First Financial Bank. We appreciate you so much.

Wednesday brought another amazing group of volunteers from JP Morgan Chase. JPMC has come to the farm several times over the last five years with various groups from their many banks and departments to help at the farm. The Wednesday group completed so many of the things that would have taken me several weeks to accomplish by myself. We are always so glad to see them and exceedingly grateful for all their help.

The overall reminder came yesterday in the form of “No Kings Day”, a nationwide protest opposing authoritarian rule, divisiveness, and threats to the freedom we so joyously celebrate and hold onto. I sat down this morning to read the news from across the country about millions of people standing and marching together peacefully for unity and freedom. N(No arrests related to the protests were reported I might add). Here in Fort Worth, thousands gathered at Burk Burnett Park and marched through downtown. Sometimes I need to know I’m not alone. Seeing so many others choosing love and justice warms my heart and renews my strength to keep on the path of love and service in pursuit of unity.

Unity, service, empathy, equity, and justice are not simply political ideas. They are core values for Opal’s Farm and Unity Unlimited, Inc. We are so grateful for all of our supporters and our volunteers that come to put those values into action. We are grateful to all of those who stood together yesterday in support of those values.

Birthdays, Community, Down On the Farm, Events, Faith, Family, Gratitude, Heroes, Honor, Role Models, Service to Others, Thoughts From the Porch, Unity Unlimited, Inc., Urban Farming

Happy Birthday Ms. Opal

gregoryjoel

Happy 99th Birthday to Dr. Opal Lee!!!! I am so honored and privileged to know and work for Ms. Opal.  I’ve learned more about loving and serving others in the last seven years than I ever could have imagined. I’m even one of the official “Grandkids” (she told me so). Being in the presence of a true civil rights icon leaves me so humbled and grateful. God has been good to me and to all that Opal’s Farm and Unity Unlimited do each day.

If you had told me when I entered recovery almost twenty years ago that I would be living the life I have today I would’ve told you there was no way. Today I get to go to work each day knowing that Opal’s Farm is making a difference for our community.

Photo by Pavel Danilyuk on Pexels.com
Business, Communication, Community, Down On the Farm, Events, Fall, Farmers Markets, Food Equality, Food Justice, Gratitude, Neighbors, Non-Profits, Nutrition, Opal's Farm, Service Organizations, Service to Others, Unity Unlimited, Inc., Urban Farming, Volunteers

Finally Fall

gregoryjoel

It’s officially Fall and I hope you’re enjoying the somewhat cooler weather. We’re busy at Opal’s planting for Fall and our Winter crops. We’ve also had some changes to our Opal’s Farm Stand schedule in order to serve more of our neighborhood customers.

I’d love to say we’re on schedule for Fall/Winter planting, but I’ve fallen behind this year. The first frost date according to The Old Farmer’s Almanac will be on November 13th this year. Even though the lack of staffing and the knee injury have slowed me down, we should be on track to have a great Fall.

I don’t want to cop to the fact that I’m another year older this year, but age probably has something to do with it. The average age of a farmer/rancher in Texas is sixty-two. I’m finally above average at something! I’m so grateful for our regular volunteers that come each week to help with harvest and general maintenance of the farm. They’re a blessing to me.

Our farm stand business is growing, but we want to reach more of our neighbors. We’ve always offered SNAP/EBT benefits, but thanks to Texas Health Community Hope we now offer Double-Up Bucks as well. That’s half-price to SNAP recipients who visit the farm stand, and we’re so pleased to be a part of the Double-Up Bucks network.

Opal’s Farm Stand will continue to be at 201 N. Sylvania (“Doc” Sessions Community Center, 76111) from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM each Saturday except for the first Saturday of the month. On the first Saturday of the month Opal’s Farm Stand will be at the Funkytown Mindful Market (1201 Wesleyan, 76105) so we can serve our Polytechnic and eastside neighbors better. Come out and see us there.

I’d also like to remind you that the Cowtown Farmers Market will be having their Fall Festival on October 11th from 8:00 AM until Noon. They’ll have extra vendors, music, and food trucks to celebrate the Fall. We’ll be there and hope to see you all then.

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, Citizenship, Community, Down On the Farm, Education, Equal Rights, Events, Faith, Freedom, Gratitude, Heroes, Hope, Prayer, Quotes, Thoughts From the Porch, Unity Unlimited, Inc., Urban Farming, Volunteers, What Can I Do

A Celebration of Freedom

gregoryjoel

It’s hard to believe that June is already here. I haven’t written much this Spring due to how busy it’s been at the farm. I beat myself up pretty good for not keeping up with our social media and my writing, but I’ve finally given myself a break and returned to “it gets done when it gets done”. Do the best you can each day and go to bed knowing that you did everything that needed to be done today. The farm, and life really, moves at its own pace and we do the best we can do and learn to let go…

Opal’s Farm has had some great volunteer groups this Spring as well as our wonderful regular volunteers. I’m not going to mention you by name simply because I don’t have space to list you all. I want to let you know how appreciated you are. I’m not confused. I know for certain that without you Opal’s Farm wouldn’t be there to provide food and access to healthy food for so many of our neighbors. Please know that every task you help with is another healthy meal served for those that need it most.

I’m always surprised when our corporate volunteers, who often come from some very conservative businesses, talk about the craziness we are all experiencing on a daily basis if one listens to even a small portion of the daily news. The chaos of the last four months has reached each one of us in some way and the thing I hear the most is “What can I do?” Sometimes it’s asked with a genuine desire to find a course of action that really says something to the powers that be but mostly it comes with a deep sense of helplessness, powerlessness, and quiet resignation.

I certainly don’t have the answers. Fortunately, I have the honor and privilege of working with my grandmother (I know she’s everyone’s grandmother, but she told me I’ve been adopted), Dr. Opal Lee; nationally known as “The Grandmother of Juneteenth”. In addition to the farm, and perhaps most importantly, is my annual Juneteenth work and celebration. Juneteenth and Opal’s Farm are about bringing all people, regardless of race, religion, sexual identity, culture, or political beliefs to the table together. As Dr. Opal has told me any times, “It’s not a Texas thing, it’s not a Black thing, it’s a unifier.” There is a way for everyone to show our support for freedom and unity. Celebrate Juneteenth together!

Juneteenth celebrations are more important than ever this year. According to Dr. Charles M Blow, “many cities have cancelled Juneteenth (celebrations)”: mostly out of fear of being considered “DEI” and the current erasure of anything having to do with Black culture and history. ( https://www.cbsnews.com/news/from-celebrating-juneteenth-to-the-erasure-of-black-history-charles-m-blow-on-america-today/ ).

Juneteenth is not a “DEI” initiative. It’s a national holiday that passed with bipartisan support. Even the man currently in the White House (I still can’t say his name aloud or in print) tried to appeal to Black voters in 2020 by making Juneteenth a federal holiday in the last days of his previous administration.

Juneteenth is a day for all of us to remember that freedom is for everyone especially those had had been enslaved. We haven’t cancelled our Juneteenth Celebration here in Fort Worth. We still started our month-long celebration with the Ecumenical Breakfast of Prayer last Friday. The Miss Juneteenth Scholarship Pageant was on Saturday. This coming Saturday will be the stage play, Timmy’s Dance, followed by the “Walk for Freedom” on the 19th, the 1K Women Strong Legacy Awards Breakfast on the 20th,” Empowering You”, a job, health, and education fair on the 21st. The month of activities closes with “Your Voice Unleashed” – a week-long program for our young people including the culinary arts, music, and the choir concert.

We will be walking 2.5 miles (to symbolize the 2.5 years it took for the enslaved people in Texas to discover they were freed) with Dr. Opal on the 19th at 9:00 AM. The walk is timed with our sponsor cities across time zones – New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, and Tokyo, Japan – so that everyone will be walking at the same time.

We also have a virtual walk for those too far away from Fort Worth or our sponsor cities. We encourage everyone to get their “2.5” on and walk with your friends wherever you are. It’s a beautiful show of unity to demonstrate our love for freedom, especially in these difficult times.

I invite everyone to join us in the “Walk for Freedom”. We’d love to hear from those who walk in their own cities and towns. The Walk will be held next year in Washington D.C. in conjunction with the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. We’d love to have 1.5 million people walking together across the country to symbolize the 1.5 million signatures on the petition Dr. Opal delivered to Congress that led to the Juneteenth holiday in 2021.