Dec 11, 20245 min read

Backyard Farming: How S.O.W. Collective is Cultivating Community in the San Fernando Valley

“If you knew what I know about the power of giving, you would not let a single meal pass without sharing it in some way.”-Buddha

Founders: Stephanie Gomez, Madison Jaschke, and Haley Feng

In a world increasingly challenged by environmental issues, S.O.W. (Shift Our Ways) Collective is a beacon of hope and empowerment. Based in the heart of Arleta, California, this women-led regenerative nonprofit is dedicated to nurturing sustainable communities while championing eco-conscious lifestyles where they are needed most. S.O.W. offers a unique blend of programs, including free organic produce, equitable access to low-waste solutions, educational workshops, and the creation of safe green spaces. Their mission is not just about sustainability; it's about building connections, fostering community, and ensuring everyone has the tools and resources to live greener lives.

Founders of the Farm

Five years ago, in 2020, founder Stephanie Gomez, who was planting trees in Inglewood, CA, with her boss Haley Feng, an urban planner, came up with the idea of turning vacant lots into productive spaces for local communities.

Gomez recounts her meeting with Madison Jaschke (a friend of Haley Feng's) and Haley during the dinner where the three young women met to sow the seeds of the S.O.W. Collective. "Haley introduced me to Maddie, who is now the CEO of S.O.W. Collective. The three of us met regularly from January to March to discuss our ideas and values. One evening, we came together for dinner at six o'clock and ended up leaving the restaurant at midnight when they were closing. We felt a strong connection regarding our shared values and what we wanted to achieve.."

Gomez, born and raised in Los Angeles, comes from immigrant parents from Mexico; she grew up learning the value and connection to land from her grandparents. Her first job was in a taqueria; she has always had a profound connection with food and culture. Maddie Jaschke grew up on a traditional farm in Minnesota and spent her time studying water quality. Haley Feng is from China and grew up hyper-aware of pollutants and small spaces and the need and importance of green spaces in small communities. These personal stories, filled with passion and dedication, are the driving force behind the S.O.W. Collective's mission.

Three women aspired to create a space that supports circular food systems, focusing on growing food with zero waste. Their goal was to provide nutrient-dense organic produce to residents in the San Fernando Valley, an area recognized as a food desert. Although the San Fernando Valley boasts a rich cultural landscape and numerous restaurants, it lacks community gardens and farms. Therefore, local residents must take the initiative to grow their own organic produce, empowering them to take control of their health and minimize their environmental impact.

The Arleta Farm

Nestled within a modest expanse of approximately 5,000 square feet, the Arleta farm has emerged as a vital community cornerstone, weaving sustainable practices into the fabric of local life. The farm cultivates around 3,000 to 3,500 square feet of land, where a vibrant tapestry of herbs, vegetables, and fruits flourishes alongside sweet sugar cane and a diverse array of fruit trees. This thriving farm is a testament to the power of community and sustainable practices in transforming local landscapes and lives.

S.O.W. Collective acquired a newer and smaller plot in Northridge, CA, around two and a half years ago, which they use for growing organic produce. This plot is roughly 1,000 square feet.

As the region's designated compost hub, the farm has forged a successful partnership with LA Compost, playing a critical role in environmental stewardship. Together, they've diverted over 10,000 pounds of food waste from local landfills, demonstrating the transformative power of community action while emphasizing their unwavering commitment to sustainability. This remarkable achievement highlights the farm's environmental impact and reinforces the importance of collaboration in fostering a healthier planet.

Partnerships Connecting to the Larger LA Community

Simone volunteering with the compost section of the farm

The collaboration with LA Compost has notably enhanced the volunteer efforts within the community. One of the dedicated volunteers, Simone, is a student at Pierce College, part of the Los Angeles Community College District (LACCD). As part of her environmental course project, she has been actively volunteering at the farm, engaging in various activities that promote sustainability and environmental stewardship. Through her hands-on experience, Simone has cultivated a deep appreciation for the mission of S.O.W. Collective . Her commitment exemplifies the positive influence that community partnerships can have on individual growth and environmental advocacy, inspiring others to join the cause.

Community Events

S.O.W. Collective deeply understands the vital role that free events play in fostering community engagement and connection. To this end, they proudly host many complimentary events to bring people together, from cultural celebrations to educational workshops. These events not only provide valuable information and experiences but also create a sense of belonging and unity among community members. They also hold special gatherings to express their gratitude to volunteers and recognize their invaluable contributions to the S.O.W. Collective mission.

Furthermore, their versatile space is open to organizations and businesses looking to host their own events. Whether it's an intimate table dinner, a vibrant community gathering, or any other occasion, they are happy to accommodate and collaborate to create memorable experiences. Their commitment is ensuring everyone has a place to come together and share their stories.

During my visit to the vibrant S.O.W. Collective in Arleta, CA, I had the delightful opportunity to meet Raul Martin Jr., a passionate advocate for financial literacy. He graciously offered a free presentation to empower community members with essential financial knowledge. Collaborating with Gomez, Martin utilized the lush farm as a dynamic teaching tool, providing attendees with relatable insights into their finances.

As we meandered through the verdant garden, bustling with various plants, Martin paused at various points to elaborate on key financial concepts. He cleverly connected the dots between the flourishing vegetation around us and financial management principles, making complex ideas more accessible and engaging. The juxtaposition of nature and finance created an enriching learning experience that resonated deeply with all who joined that day.

Highlights of Martin's Financial Literacy Tour

Strawberries and the Rule of 72
Investing-Diversification
Budgeting
Harvesting-Reaping the Rewards of Your Investment

What S.O.W. Collective Offers

Community Event Space
Free Events for the Community
Free Organic Produce for the Community
Free Composting Drop off for Community

S.O.W. welcomes and motivates the community to engage in gardening, composting, and harvesting produce. They anticipate supplying organic produce to local chefs in the coming year, and hope the community will be part of this journey towards a more sustainable and interconnected future.