Schuyler Coonse

I had a wonderful time volunteering with Rise Up Community Farm. I spent time with other volunteers weeding asparagus and wildflower beds, trimming overgrown areas, and laying weed fabric in between beds. This work was very rewarding, and it felt great to see the visual progress we made after clearing all of the weeds from the beds we worked on. Working alongside the other volunteers made the experience fun and collaborative. There were five other volunteers alongside me, and together we were able to efficiently complete each task we started while chatting and getting to know each other. Working at the community farm felt particularly rewarding for me because I grew up gardening with my mother and now keep a garden of my own. Working outside to produce food has always been something I have enjoyed, and I was especially happy to be doing so to support Rise Up Community Farm’s mission. While working, I learned that the community farm grows produce to serve House of Mercy Food Pantry and to combat food insecurity in New Hanover County more broadly. The farm also provides a space for community members to learn about cultivating food crops, which I really appreciate because of my own passion for gardening. I think that volunteering is an important part of professional development that builds skills that support people throughout their lives. It was a privilege to serve the community while doing something that I love. Thank you, Rise Up Community Farm!