February 5, 2020

Dear Friends of VGI,

On behalf of the board of directors, committed staff and all the dedicated volunteers, we want to thank you all for helping us reach our Annual Giving goal of over $30,000 for 2019!! We are all deeply grateful for your generosity and continued belief in the impact we make in our community.  For all the people-children, parents, schools, churches that will benefit from these generous financial contributions-we say THANK YOU!

I am so excited to be starting another year as the Chairwoman of the Board.  It is such a gift to me to be able to serve in this capacity for an amazing organization. I am continuously reminded of the all the ways VGI weaves its mission into our lives.  So often, while going about my regular day, I meet people that talk about their experience with VGI. From across Milwaukee and especially in Harambee I hear how people appreciate being a part of   VGI’s growing community of neighbors, children and volunteers.

Victory Garden Initiative’s mission to help people grow their own food seems to permeate the community in every corner of Milwaukee.  When I learn of people’s interest and their passion to help the world become a better place through growing their own food, I understand, even more deeply, how important the work we are doing is to build community. VGI’s mission to improve our health and our food system is so important and the passion for our mission is spreading quickly. A good thing for us all!

If you too want to be more involved, here are some ways you can ‘get your hands in the dirt’:

• Volunteer: We have group volunteer days, on-going office opportunities, internships, farming positions, composting operations, and higher-level committee work.
• Enroll in our Food Leader Program. This program is a life-changing experience for its participants and will soon be offered free to Harambee residents.  More information on this program is coming soon.
• Bring yourself and all your friends to our upcoming Open House for our new community kitchen/room on Friday, March 6 from 4-7 pm.
• Get or give a garden – or do both! – during our 12th Annual Great Milwaukee Victory Garden BLITZ. It is an inspiring way to begin growing your own food.

2020 is going to be a year filled with building gardens, growing food, and fostering community. Don’t miss it!

Susie Ralston, Chairwoman of the Board, Victory Garden Initiative