Hello my name is Mia. I have grown up in the garden helping my mom plant a garden my whole life, but it wasn’t until high school that I truly understood the value of growing your own food. Fresh produce is much more than just vegetables—it is fuel for the body and a foundation for overall well-being.As an active student involved in cross country, soccer, and numerous extracurricular activities, I began to recognize how fortunate I was to have access to nutritious foods that supported my busy lifestyle. At the same time, I realized that not everyone has the same access to fresh produce or the education needed to understand the connection between nutrition and health.
Through my own experiences, I learned that growing food represents far more than simply having vegetables available. It is a privilege, a way of life, and a powerful tool for supporting physical and mental health. My journey began at local farmers markets, where I sold homemade sourdough bread, but it soon developed into a deeper passion for making fresh, healthy food more accessible to others.
Over the past two summers, I have volunteered with Perdita Butler, gaining firsthand knowledge about sustainable food production and the many benefits of fresh produce. This experience strengthened my belief that access to nutritious food is essential for every community.
Inspired by what I have learned, I am committed to sharing this knowledge with younger generations. By educating youth about the power of food and its connection to the body, I hope to encourage healthier lifestyles and greater appreciation for where our food comes from. I believe that everyone deserves the opportunity to feel their best and fuel their lives through nutritious, fresh food.”



