My first visit to Angelic Organics Learning Center was in the Spring of 2021. From the moment I turned off my car and stepped outside to hear (and smell) chickens, goats, and the surrounding nature, I was hooked. For the next two hours I absorbed everything there was to learn about having chicken.

Over the next nine months, my wife and I would escape Chicago and venture out to Caledonia to visit the farm. In the Fall of 2021, we had the pleasure of touring the Roots & Wings Urban Farm and saw all of the important work Tedd, Yatte, and Ken are doing - namely providing organic produce to their community at Blackhawk Courts. Later that same season we attended a brunch fundraiser for Roots & Wings at The Learning Center Lodge and were touched to learn more about the urban farm and public garden, but more importantly the people, the community, and the impact of their presence.

Starting in January 2022 I had the privilege of attending our Stateline Farm Beginnings classes. As an active participant, I spent three days a week completing homework, hearing from knowledgeable speakers, and dreaming about my own future farm. However, my biggest takeaway was meeting my fellow cohorts and colleagues. Watching each of them blossom as individuals and their farm dreams grow from a small seed of an idea to a well-thought-out achievable future was incredible and truly inspirational.

Lastly, I became President of the Board this year and am beyond excited for the future of Angelic Organics Learning Center. Having seen our impact firsthand, I can confidently say that our future is bright and I am thrilled to be a part of it! With gratitude and joy,

Brad