Cultivating Community At Freetown Farm!

With the community's support, in 2019 CEI purchased the last working farm in our hometown of Columbia, Maryland and protected it from ever being developed! Since then, we have been working diligently to transform this 6.4 acre organic farm, now known as Freetown Farm, into a place where people can learn through hands-on experiences about how they can lead happier, healthier, more connected and sustainable lives. Small, local, community-based ecology centers such as this have the power to transform communities, heal the environment, and bring people together with a sense of hope and purpose for the future. This endeavor will be of special interest for those who want to support and engage in experiential education related to: environmental sustainability and climate action; naturalist and ecological knowledge; regenerative agriculture and permaculture design; health, nutrition and wellness; and cultural land heritage. This fundraising campaign is focused on helping the Community Ecology Institute have the operational resources needed to transform Freetown Farm into an innovative and inspiring community asset.

Monthly sustaining donations are especially helpful as we seek to develop a steady operating budget. Please consider making a pledge today to support CEI monthly for the next year. Members of CEI provide the renewing rain that makes our gardens grow.  Sustaining contributions matter deeply, watering the roots of all we do.  By becoming a sustaining member, you will help us:   

• Staff our community-uplifting work, including internships!
• Offer dynamic in-person and virtual events and programs! 
• Develop and maintain Freetown Farm and demonstration gardens throughout the community! 
• Mentor youth and adults in skills needed to cultivate communities where people and nature thrive together 

Monthly Membership levels:

Pollinate: $10 a month - You will receive a Freetown Farm bumper sticker; an invitation to a quarterly online Member's guest speaker and/or Executive Director Q&A; listing in annual report as a CEI member.

Seed: $25 a month - You will receive the above plus, a CEI hat or t-shirt; an invitation to a seasonal fireside evening at Freetown Farm. 

Plant: $50 a month - You will receive the above plus, a 10% discount on all purchases at the Freetown Farm nursery; recognition (if desired) as a supporter on CEI website for a year.

Harvest: $100 a month - You will receive the above plus, a large garden stake with your name will be displayed at the farm; and you can schedule a free one-hour consultation with CEI farm & garden experts.