#USA #Farmhand Foundation #Whitney Clapper #Patagonia #Ojai

Whitney Clapper Appointed Executive Director of Farmhand Foundation

The Farmhand Foundation has proudly welcomed Whitney Clapper as its new Executive Director, a significant appointment that promises to advance the organization’s mission toward sustainable agriculture. With a strong background in community impact and sustainability from her tenure at Patagonia, Clapper is set to play a crucial role in the Foundation's initiatives aimed at promoting organic farming practices.

A New Chapter for Farmhand Foundation

Founded in 2024 by Tractor Beverage Company, the Farmhand Foundation is dedicated to helping farmers transition to organic farming. The organization is committed to providing growers with the necessary resources to overcome the challenges associated with soil health, certification, and market access. By making organic farming the norm rather than the exception, the Foundation aims to foster a healthier, more sustainable food system.

Clapper's expertise from her past roles at Patagonia, where she led global community relations and initiatives like the Footprint Chronicles, will be invaluable as she guides the Foundation's strategies. Her professional journey demonstrates a profound commitment to connecting diverse voices and building community-driven solutions, aligning perfectly with Farmhand’s overarching objectives.

Whitney's Vision

Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Clapper stated, "Farmhand has already given me a sense of returning home. The opportunity to work with growers, the local Chumash, and the greater community while honoring the land and contributing to a more sustainable and just food system feels like a natural extension of my life's work. I look forward to building on the incredible foundation that's been laid and creating lasting change for growers and the land."

Justin Herber, co-founder of the Farmhand Foundation, shared his confidence in Clapper’s leadership, stating that her deep experience and passion for impactful solutions make her the ideal choice to lead this initiative. "Whitney is exactly the leader we envisioned when creating the Farmhand Foundation. I couldn't be more confident in her ability to lead and amplify our mission," he remarked.

Supporting Organic Farming Transition

A pivotal part of the Farmhand Foundation’s plan is the launch of the flagship Organic Transition Program in 2025, which will provide critical financial, technical, and educational support to farmers as they navigate the three-year certification process. This initiative emphasizes the Foundation's commitment to ensuring that farmers have access to the tools and knowledge necessary for success in transitioning to organic methods.

The Foundation also intends to facilitate workshops, provide mentorship opportunities, and develop market-based solutions to further enhance the capabilities of aspiring organic farmers. Clapper's leadership is expected to inspire innovative approaches to engage local growers and stakeholders effectively.

Farmhand Foundation, under Clapper’s stewardship, aims to empower farmers to embrace regenerative practices that not only benefit their livelihoods but also contribute to the wellbeing of the land. This endeavor aligns with Tractor Beverage Company's dedication to supporting environmental causes, as a proud member of 1% for the Planet.

For those interested in learning more about the Farmhand Foundation’s mission and upcoming programs, further information can be found on their website: FarmhandFoundation.org.

Conclusion

With Whitney Clapper at the helm, the Farmhand Foundation is poised to make significant strides in its mission to support organic farming and create a sustainable food future. Her extensive experience and passion for community engagement will undoubtedly shape the Foundation’s efforts in meaningful ways. As the organization embarks on this new chapter, it continues to inspire hope for a healthier planet driven by regenerative agriculture practices.