The backbone of our farm is. . .
One of the goals that Jeremy and I have at the Farm is to create an inclusive workspace for all individuals. Throughout our history it’s been easier to do that in the summer thanks to the season and the opportunities we have to plant in our 67 grow beds. All of that is about to change. This week we harvested 35 rafts (980 heads of lettuce) out of our system. That wasn’t what we anticipate to be a normal week. A normal week should be closer to 55-60 rafts (1,500-1,600 heads of lettuce) coming out. This will allow us to hire at least one more employee year round if not 2. I (Jamey) am the only Full Time employee at the farm and Jeremy is typically there 2-3 days per week depending upon the schedule of his other company.
Last summer we hired 4 high school students. 2 were typical and 2 were individuals living their lives with a variety of challenges. We are excited about the summer months that are quickly approaching and are excited to have some more individuals at the farm week in and week out.
The backbone of our farm is Jay. Jay started out with us last summer and has been able to work with us throughout the year. He currently works 2 days/week and will begin working 3 days/week in June. Jay runs the place.
Over the course of his employment with us we’ve taught Jay how to plant, transplant, harvest and deliver lettuce. He’s mastered it! When Jeremy and I had to spend a few days tying the new greenhouse into the old greenhouse: Jay did everything without our help or oversight. He’s got it figured out!
Jay has also learned how to plant and harvest a variety of outside vegetables depending on the season. Jay loves carrots. In fact, while I was cutting grass today Jay was watering some of our freshly planted cucumbers, beans, and zucchini squash. I happen to watch him pick a carrot or two and eat them as a snack while he watered. Nothing better than being on the farm and being able to snack when you’re hungry.
Jay loves to act. You can find him in most Showtime Theatre performances. In fact, he recently performed in one of the acts at Come See Me in Rock Hill. He’s active in his church and his youth group. He loves to eat anything - and a lot of it! Jeremy and I aren’t sure how his parents keep the shelves stocked.
Jay has learned how to cut grass, pressure wash, change a flat tire, and jump off a battery. He loves the farm and we love him.
Jeremy and I are thankful for Jay. And we’re also thankful for the opportunity to bring some other guys in to work alongside of Jay. Jay keeps us straight for sure; but it’s fun to watch Jay interact with guys his own age as they work together to make the farm the best it can be!
Thanks for keeping up with us! Have a great weekend!
J&J
