BIG GREEN DAO Committee Member ELECTION 2025 Join the DAO Committee

DAO Committee 2025 Election Get to Know the Nominees

Read through each candidate's bio and watch their video to learn more about them.

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  Raymond Bryant

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  Raymond Bryant

  San Antonio Million Garden Project

  I am Raymond Bryant, Presiding Elder of the San Antonio District of the AME Church. We build Community Gardens through out the communities that suffer from food apartheid. We are building gardens at churches, day care centers, after school learning centers and on public/private property where community members are welcome and can come learn to grow, harvest and cook the food we are producing.

  Could you share a specific story where you led a community toward a positive change?
  We believe food is medicine and we continue to teach people how to prepare food in healthy ways. We have persons that have changed their eating habits and it corrected their medical condition. They no longer need insulin!!

  What is one specific way you think we can create a more robust and engaged Big Green DAO Community?
  Do a major project in each major city where we have presence and participation.

  What do you think Big Green DAO’s greatest untapped opportunity is?
  Combining the collective talent and skills to have major impact in multiple areas

  Let's imagine for a moment. In an ideal world, what would the Big Green DAO look like in 5 years?
  Continue to expand and implement programs in every major city

  Based on your experience, what's the biggest challenge the Big Green DAO needs to overcome?
  Maintaining a funding level that meets the needs of all the intended impact areas on a continuous basis.

  What do you bring forward as a candidate that will set the DAO up for success?
  Energy, experience and lots of good relationships!!

  How would you define yourself in just three words?
  Make It Happen!!!

  What makes you a great candidate to join the Big Green DAO Committee in 2025?
  I have direct access to many communities across the country and know the right people to get things done and expand the work of Big Green successfully.

  There are four areas of focus in 2025: federal funding, land access and stewardship, earned revenue/value-added strategies, and data/technology infrastructure for the DAO. How will you be able to add value and leadership to these areas of focus?
  I have direct access to people in the Department Of Agriculture and the person to lead it I have worked with for over 30 years.

  What is the future you see for the DAO? Where will we be after your three year term of service?
  Funded to do greater work through out the Country!!

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  Julius Buzzard

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  Julius Buzzard

  Growing Hope

  At Growing Hope, we believe food is a right, not a privilege, and a just food system is essential to liberation. Based in Ypsilanti, Michigan, we cultivate urban agriculture, farmers markets, and educational programs to empower our community to reclaim food sovereignty. As Executive Director, I lead a team working to dismantle systemic barriers to food access and economic opportunity. We transform how we feed ourselves while nurturing justice, connection, and self-determination.

  Could you share a specific story where you led a community toward a positive change?
  When I took on leadership at Growing Hope, launching the Washtenaw County Black Farmers Fund became a defining moment in advancing food justice in our region. Launching the Washtenaw County Black Farmers Fund was a pivotal step toward food justice. Black farmers face systemic barriers to land, capital, and support. Partnering with local farmers and leaders, we created a fund providing resources, technical assistance, and advocacy. The first grants helped expand operations, purchase equipment, and adopt sustainable practices. This fund reclaims agency, uplifts Black agrarian traditions, and plants seeds for a more equitable food system in Washtenaw County.

  What is one specific way you think we can create a more robust and engaged Big Green DAO Community?
  To build a more robust and engaged Big Green DAO Community, we must focus on engaging communities in meaningful ways to create active, connected networks across the country. By organizing regional and topical gatherings that foster collaboration, shared learning, and collective action around food sovereignty, we can equip members to be ambassadors for the Big Green DAO. This will empower individuals to lead initiatives, connect with others locally, and amplify the impact of grassroots projects. By showcasing the value of these efforts, we can also attract more funders who are interested in supporting community-driven solutions, cultivating networks that inspire national momentum for a more equitable and sustainable food system.

  What do you think Big Green DAO’s greatest untapped opportunity is?
  Big Green DAO’s greatest untapped opportunity lies in leveraging its members as ambassadors to build regional networks that connect local food sovereignty efforts with a larger, national movement. By empowering members to take ownership of initiatives in their own communities and facilitating regional collaborations, Big Green DAO can create a web of engaged, active networks that amplify collective impact. This decentralized approach not only strengthens the DAO’s reach but also builds a deeper sense of community ownership and involvement, encouraging sustained participation and attracting new funders interested in supporting regionally focused, community-driven change.

  Let's imagine for a moment. In an ideal world, what would the Big Green DAO look like in 5 years?
  In an ideal world, Big Green DAO in five years would be a dynamic, decentralized network of empowered communities driving food sovereignty both nationally and globally. Regional networks would be closely connected, sharing resources, knowledge, and strategies to build sustainable, equitable food systems. Local leaders would serve as ambassadors, guiding grassroots initiatives and advocating for policy changes that prioritize food justice and sustainability. Through collective action and influence, Big Green DAO would have a direct impact on policy, advocating for transformative changes at the local, national, and global levels.

  Based on your experience, what's the biggest challenge the Big Green DAO needs to overcome?
  The biggest challenge Big Green DAO needs to overcome is ensuring consistent and meaningful member engagement, particularly during orientation and early involvement. Without a strong sense of connection to the DAO’s mission and a clear understanding of how members can contribute, it’s easy for participants to disengage or feel uncertain about their role.

  What do you bring forward as a candidate that will set the DAO up for success?
  As a candidate, I bring a deep commitment to community-driven solutions, a proven track record in food sovereignty initiatives, and experience leading innovative projects that center equity and collaboration. My leadership at Growing Hope has taught me how to build and sustain networks, engage diverse stakeholders, and amplify grassroots voices to drive systemic change. I am dedicated to fostering member engagement and equipping individuals to lead with purpose within their communities. With a vision for regional and topical connections, I bring strategic insight to help the DAO grow its impact, attract new funders, and transform philanthropy to center those most affected by inequities.

  How would you define yourself in just three words?
  Visionary, Collaborative, Resilient.

  What makes you a great candidate to join the Big Green DAO Committee in 2025?
  I am a strong candidate for the Big Green DAO Committee in 2025 because of my deep-rooted experience in food sovereignty, community service, and food policy at local, state, and international levels. As Executive Director of Growing Hope, I’ve led initiatives to transform food systems by creating accessible farmers markets, launching the Washtenaw County Black Farmers Fund, and empowering local leaders through education and resources. I actively engage in building networks, including regional collaborations and intergenerational programs, to foster community resilience.

  My leadership style centers on equity, inclusivity, and amplifying marginalized voices, ensuring that solutions are community-driven and impactful. Having participated in DAO-related efforts, I understand the importance of decentralized giving and how to navigate its complexities. With a background in collaborative leadership, I bring strategic vision, hands-on experience, and a passion for systems change, all of which would strengthen the Committee and its mission.

  There are four areas of focus in 2025: federal funding, land access and stewardship, earned revenue/value-added strategies, and data/technology infrastructure for the DAO. How will you be able to add value and leadership to these areas of focus?
  I bring value and leadership to the Big Green DAO's 2025 focus areas through a blend of practical experience and strategic vision:

  Federal Funding: I’ve secured significant grants for Growing Hope by aligning local needs with federal priorities, including USDA programs and community development initiatives. I can contribute strategies for accessing federal funds that prioritize equity and food sovereignty while building capacity among DAO members to navigate funding processes.

  Land Access and Stewardship: Through initiatives like the Washtenaw County Black Farmers Fund, I’ve worked to address systemic barriers to land ownership and support sustainable practices. I can help the DAO develop frameworks that prioritize equitable land access and promote stewardship models grounded in Indigenous and regenerative practices.

  Earned Revenue/Value-Added Strategies: With Growing Hope’s farmers markets and partnerships for value-added products, I understand how to build community-driven earned revenue streams. I can guide DAO members in scaling these strategies, fostering entrepreneurship, and enhancing local economies.

  Data/Technology Infrastructure: I’ve led the implementation of technology to track impact and communicate outcomes effectively to stakeholders. I can assist the DAO in developing user-friendly systems to manage data transparently, enabling better decision-making, storytelling, and engagement.

  What is the future you see for the DAO? Where will we be after your three year term of service?
  After my three-year term, I envision the Big Green DAO as a deeply engaged network of communities and leaders collectively driving strategic initiatives transforming food systems and philanthropy. The DAO will have developed a comprehensive plan for reshaping philanthropy, including practical guides to equip members as active participants in the movement for equity, sustainability, and food sovereignty. Thriving regional networks will foster collaboration and innovation, linking grassroots efforts to larger-scale impact. Strategic initiatives, such as securing federal funding and advancing land access and stewardship, will be well-established and generate transformative results. The DAO will stand as a model for trust-based philanthropy, empowering communities with the tools and support to lead systemic change.

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  Larry Franklin

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  Larry Franklin

  Black Lives Veggies The Nonprofit

  Black Lives Veggies is a nonprofit organization in Austin, Texas, with a mission statement based on empowerment through experience, equity, and innovation. Founded in 2022 by Larry Franklin, we have introduced numerous innovative projects across various platforms. In 2024, we finally established what we consider our permanent home. That same year, we partnered with the only historically Black university in Austin, Texas, to create a green jobs program, producing over 900 veggies.

  Could you share a specific story where you led a community toward a positive change?
  As a commissioner in Austin, Texas, for the Food Policy Board, I have gained significant experience in food policy and community development. In 2024, we successfully had the Austin/Travis County Food Plan adopted by both the City Council and Travis County. Committed to serving Austin residents, I partnered with the University of Texas at Austin to create a map that identifies access to land for communities that traditionally lack such opportunities. Today, we are asking the City of Austin to use this map as a principal guide to understand our most at-risk communities and identify existing resources that can be leveraged for their benefit.

  What is one specific way you think we can create a more robust and engaged Big Green DAO Community?
  providing resources that stimulate the builder and creator within us all is essential. Empowering individuals with the tools and opportunities they need can indeed lead to remarkable innovation and development within the community. It's through these efforts that we can foster growth, creativity, and sustainability, ensuring a brighter future for everyone involved.

  What do you think Big Green DAO’s greatest untapped opportunity is?
  Harnessing the value of analytics, the power of a strong name, and the immense talent within the community can create a tremendous impact. Analytics can uncover insights that help us understand community needs, measure success, and identify growth opportunities. The value of the name brings recognition and credibility, drawing attention to the community's achievements, mission, and team. The value of the talent showcases the skills and creativity of community members, demonstrating the potential for innovation, progress, and impact.

  Let's imagine for a moment. In an ideal world, what would the Big Green DAO look like in 5 years?
  Simply and with conviction, the DAO could be a platform that defines empowerment, freedom, and forward-thinking/action in the atmosphere of growing food to change the lives of individuals and communities.

  Based on your experience, what's the biggest challenge the Big Green DAO needs to overcome?
  The DAO holds significant value. However, I believe that the personnel lack the innovative mindset required to support its evolution.

  What do you bring forward as a candidate that will set the DAO up for success?
  I bring extensive experience and a dynamic personality marked by innovation, grit, passion, and determination.

  How would you define yourself in just three words?
  intelligent, innovation and understanding

  What makes you a great candidate to join the Big Green DAO Committee in 2025?
  Throughout my experience, I have made significant progress over the past two years with a fragile board, which is now being replaced to meet evolving demands, and limited resources. I am confident that one of the new positions (value-adding/earned revenue), combined with the talent within the DAO, will be an ideal fit for me. My passion for empowerment aligns perfectly with the new direction in which the DAO is moving, and I am eager to contribute to the evolution of the DAO and our member organizations.

  There are four areas of focus in 2025: federal funding, land access and stewardship, earned revenue/value-added strategies, and data/technology infrastructure for the DAO. How will you be able to add value and leadership to these areas of focus?
  Earned Revenue / Value-Added Strategies: I have focused on implementing strategies and tactics that generate earned revenue for the past two years. I have been fortunate to establish contacts with experts across every category of economics related to food growing and selling, giving me a comprehensive understanding of the industry.

  I would add value to the DAO in a meaningful and immediate way by understanding all of our member organizations, their current situations, and their goals. By analyzing this data, I can create a comprehensive, customized roadmap designed specifically for each organization, rather than a one-size-fits-all approach.

  What is the future you see for the DAO? Where will we be after your three year term of service?
  The DAO will have the capability to review business plans and make loans in a way that banks or credit unions cannot. I envision all members having healthy earned revenue streams and strong collaboration, resulting in new opportunities for greater earned revenue. This, in turn, will lead to greater community impact and healthier organizations that can sustain themselves through their means.

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  Derravia K. Rich

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  Derravia K. Rich

  Black Seeds

  Black Seeds is a non-profit based in Memphis, TN, dedicated to advancing food justice, environmental sustainability, and community empowerment. Founded by Derravia, Black Seeds focuses on transforming underutilized urban spaces into thriving agricultural hubs that provide fresh, locally grown produce to underserved neighborhoods. Derravia leads initiatives that address food insecurity, sustainable farm practices, and educate the community on the importance of fresh food access.

  Could you share a specific story where you led a community toward a positive change?
  At Black Seeds, we take pride in being catalysts for transformative change in our community. One of our most impactful initiatives involved addressing food insecurity in an underserved Memphis neighborhood. By repurposing a vacant lot into a thriving urban garden, we provided residents with access to fresh produce while creating a space for education and engagement. Through workshops on sustainable farming, nutrition, and cooking, we empowered families to grow their own food and make healthier lifestyle choices. This initiative didn’t just address immediate hunger; it cultivated long-term resilience by teaching self-sufficiency and environmental stewardship. We collaborate w/ local schools & organizations to extend our reach in Memphis.

  What is one specific way you think we can create a more robust and engaged Big Green DAO Community?
  Foster Collaborative Initiatives: We believe establishing cross-organizational projects within the Big Green DAO Community, such as joint educational programs, shared gardening challenges/projects, or collaborative community events will allow members to pool resources and amplify our impact collectively.

  What do you think Big Green DAO’s greatest untapped opportunity is?
  The DAO’s greatest untapped opportunity lies in leveraging its network to create a nationwide mentorship program. By connecting seasoned organizations with emerging community leaders, the DAO can foster knowledge sharing, build capacity, and amplify impact across diverse regions. This mentorship could include guidance on sustainable farming techniques, effective community engagement, and innovative ways to address food insecurity, unlocking the potential of newer members and strengthening the collective as a whole.

  Let's imagine for a moment. In an ideal world, what would the Big Green DAO look like in 5 years?
  In an ideal world, the Big Green DAO in 5 years would be a transformative force in reshaping how communities address food systems, sustainability, and equity. It would operate as a thriving, interconnected network of grassroots organizations, each empowered by shared resources, mentorship, and collaborative opportunities.

  Based on your experience, what's the biggest challenge the Big Green DAO needs to overcome?
  The biggest challenge the Big Green DAO needs to overcome is sustaining active engagement and collaboration across its diverse network. While the DAO has fostered incredible innovation and community impact, maintaining consistent communication, shared vision, and active participation among all members can be difficult in a decentralized structure.

  What do you bring forward as a candidate that will set the DAO up for success?
  As a passionate community advocate and a dedicated proponent of quality in all endeavors, I bring a unique blend of vision, action, and commitment to the Big Green DAO. My experience leading initiatives like Black Seeds has taught me the power of cultivating relationships, fostering inclusivity, and creating impactful programs that directly address community needs. I bring an unwavering focus on excellence, ensuring that every project I touch is thoughtful, meaningful, and sustainable. My ability to connect with diverse stakeholders—from grassroots organizations to policy leaders—positions me to bridge gaps, amplify voices, and drive collaborative solutions. As a candidate, I am committed to leveraging my experience and values to assist.

  How would you define yourself in just three words?
  Driven, Empathetic, Visionary

  What makes you a great candidate to join the Big Green DAO Committee in 2025?
  I am an ideal candidate for the Big Green DAO Committee in 2025 because of my deep-rooted commitment to both food systems and community advocacy. As the founder of Black Seeds, I have a hands-on understanding of sustainable food growth, from developing urban farms to educating underserved communities on growing their own food. My experience in serving the community goes beyond gardening—I've led initiatives that address food insecurity, environmental justice, and community engagement, building trust and collaboration across diverse groups. I have actively engaged with the DAO, learning from its collective knowledge and sharing insights from my own work. My leadership in transforming neglected spaces into productive urban farms exemplifies my ability to turn vision into action. By bringing my experience in leadership, community-building, and sustainable agriculture to the Committee, I can help strengthen the DAO's mission, ensuring it thrives and continues to have a meaningful impact.

  There are four areas of focus in 2025: federal funding, land access and stewardship, earned revenue/value-added strategies, and data/technology infrastructure for the DAO. How will you be able to add value and leadership to these areas of focus?
  I can contribute to the DAO’s success by leveraging my expertise in securing federal funding through successful grant applications, improving land access by developing community-driven urban farming models, creating sustainable revenue streams through value-added products and programs, and integrating technology to enhance farm productivity and track outcomes for long-term impact.

  What is the future you see for the DAO? Where will we be after your three year term of service?
  After my three-year term of service, I see the DAO as a thriving, cohesive network that has significantly expanded its reach and impact. The DAO will be a well-established leader in sustainable agriculture, with stronger federal funding partnerships and diverse revenue streams that ensure long-term financial stability. Most importantly, the DAO will have cultivated a united, empowered community of organizations and individuals working together to create lasting change, with a shared commitment to food equity and environmental sustainability. Our collective efforts will continue to drive positive change, fostering resilience and innovation for future generations.

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  Jonathan Rodrigues

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  Jonathan Rodrigues

  Frontline Farming

  FrontLine Farming is a BIPOC- and women-led nonprofit that is creating an equitable food systems through farming, education, advocacy, and research. We are farmers, seed savers, foodway protectors, and advocates for agricultural workers’ rights. We aim to amplify marginalized voices and preserve cultural traditions. As Special Programs Coordinator, I manage seed-saving, foodways, and mushroom cultivation. Additionally, I serve as VP for the Mile High chapter of Natl Young Farmers Coalition.

  Could you share a specific story where you led a community toward a positive change?
  When I was in undergraduate, I studied business and found myself frustrated with the American-centric approach to business. I was interested in the Grameen Bank in Bangladesh and organized an immersion trip to Bangladesh for students from the university to visit a unique and beautiful country, observe operations of the bank throughout the country, meet some of its borrowers and learn about their lives, and visit some larger investments in agribusiness and communications. It was a transformative experience for us as participants that was shared with school community upon return. The university now offers immersion experiences throughout the “developing world”. I'd like to think that I helped this movement.

  What is one specific way you think we can create a more robust and engaged Big Green DAO Community?
  For Big Green DAO to create a more robust and engaged community it must focus on creating structures that empower grassroots organizations and agricultural worker advocates to engage meaningfully in its processes. This means implementing strategies to ensure equitable participation, such as providing technical assistance and capacity-building support to smaller organizations and BIPOC-led groups. It also requires designing inclusive decision-making frameworks that amplify the perspectives of those who are often sidelined, particularly BIPOC farmers who navigate complex systemic barriers.

  What do you think Big Green DAO’s greatest untapped opportunity is?
  Decentralized, democratic decision-making reflecting those most impacted by systemic inequities, particularly BIPOC farmers and agricultural workers. The Big Green DAO model for grant giving and financial decision promises to democratize grantmaking. However, asymmetries in technology literacy and access need to be overcome. BIPOC farmers have limited access to land, capital, and resources, and are often excluded from key decision-making processes. As a result, solutions often fail to address the systemic inequities that impact communities, especially agricultural workers: the backbone of our food system. The Big Green DAO biggest challenge is to fill these gaps toward worker-led solutions, fair labor, and systemic change.

  Let's imagine for a moment. In an ideal world, what would the Big Green DAO look like in 5 years?
  I see the Big Green DAO amplifying marginalized voices and providing variable funding to vetted individuals and organizations. We envision youth and children’s education programs, direct advocacy for agricultural workers, and fostering equity in food systems. We believe that the DAO will be a global model for democratic processes that are inclusive, impactful, aligned with community realities, as well access to capital for growth and greater impact in building a more equitable food systems.

  Based on your experience, what's the biggest challenge the Big Green DAO needs to overcome?
  We believe that the DAO is well-positioned to be a model for decentralized, community-driven philanthropy that addresses food insecurity and promotes sustainable agriculture. We believe that it can have a significant impact on 1) empowering grassroots organizations; 2) enhancing land access and stewardship; 3) securing federal funding and developing value-added strategies; 4) fostering a collaborative and inclusive community.

  What do you bring forward as a candidate that will set the DAO up for success?
  I bring a unique blend of personal commitment, practical experience, and innovative thinking that can strengthen the Big Green DAO Committee. Born and raised in Denver with experience in global and local agriculture for over a decade. I grow food for my community regardless of the challenges or financial rewards. I believe that food systems should reflect the needs and strengths of the communities they serve. I manage seed saving, cultural foodways, and mushroom cultivation—these are mission critical areas for FLF related to fostering biodiversity and addressing climate resilience. I am a long time advocate for hyper-local food systems and empowering residents to grow and share food within their communities.

  How would you define yourself in just three words?
  Empathetic, Pragmatic, Irreverent

  What makes you a great candidate to join the Big Green DAO Committee in 2025?
  I bring hands-on farming experience, business management, and local and regional food system relationships. I am in my 9th season with a practical understanding of operational best practices, challenges, and opportunities faced by farmers and food systems workers. As Special Programs Coordinator at FrontLine Farming, I lead seed saving, foodways, and mushroom cultivation efforts. I am committed to preservation of agricultural biodiversity, honoring cultural traditions, and advancing sustainable farming practices. I can offer the DAO a grounded perspective on equity in food systems, a strong commitment to fostering collaboration, and a proven ability to manage programs that prioritize sustainability and inclusion.

  There are four areas of focus in 2025: federal funding, land access and stewardship, earned revenue/value-added strategies, and data/technology infrastructure for the DAO. How will you be able to add value and leadership to these areas of focus?
  I am uniquely qualified to advance the areas of focus for the 2025 DAO. I am a leader in the Mile High chapter of the National Young Farmers Coalition. Founded in 2010, we build and maintain relationships with stakeholders in our local food system and work to amplify the work of our farmer members to federal funders. As the Special Programs Coordinator at Frontline Farming, I am focused on seed saving, foodways, and fungus. My goal is for each of these focus areas to be value-added strategies the result in earned revenue. I have a background as a business and financial analyst with familiarity and eager interest in data/technology infrastructure including distributed autonomous organizations and the blockchain.

  What is the future you see for the DAO? Where will we be after your three year term of service?
  In 3 years, I see the DAO creating equitable pathways for BIPOC farmers to access and steward land. It makes funding available for sustainable, regenerative agricultural practices to enhance food production, promote soil health, and honor cultural foodways. The DAO gives participants the opportunity to be both researchers and subjects, ensuring that data collection and analysis are ethical, community-centered, and actionable. Uncovering critical insights into the experiences of farms and agricultural workers will help us shape advocacy efforts and sustainable business models that influence systemic change. This will require cultivating and growing a connected and engaged network of members, fostering collaboration, shared learning, and mutual support. This community-driven approach will enable the DAO to remain responsive to the evolving challenges of the food system.

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  Falon Tabares

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  Falon Tabares

  The Healthy Earth Organization

  I am the co-founder and CEO of The Healthy Earth Organization. Our mission is to empower young people by providing accessible avenues to contribute to Southwest Florida's community, become stewards of our environment, and generate positive change. We have 14 early learning food gardens and 2 community gardens and one more community garden being added in mid 2025 in Fort Myers, Florida.

  Could you share a specific story where you led a community toward a positive change?
  As co-founders of The Healthy Earth Organization, my husband and I adapted to our community's needs following three major hurricanes by transitioning from traditional in-ground to hydroponic gardens, enhancing sustainability and resilience. We also started a collaboration with Lee Health our local hospital system in Fort Myers to provide healthy cooking presentations, educating families on nutrition using our gardens' produce and providing the surplus to over 500 local residents through a local food pantry.

  What is one specific way you think we can create a more robust and engaged Big Green DAO Community?
  One specific way to create a more robust and engaged Big Green DAO Community is by initiating a mentorship program. This program would connect former committee members with current DAO community members to offer support in preventing burnout and to facilitate knowledge sharing. Additionally, introducing a recognition system with grants can reward outstanding contributions and encourage greater community involvement. To further boost visibility and growth, expanding social media takeovers for DAO organizations on Big Green’s socials.

  What do you think Big Green DAO’s greatest untapped opportunity is?
  I believe Big Green DAO’s greatest untapped opportunity lies in offering even more tailored training programs designed to enhance financial sustainability within each organization in the DAO. By equipping our members with essential skills and knowledge, we can significantly reduce our reliance on external donors and grants. This shift toward self-sufficiency will empower our organizations to thrive independently for generations, ensuring long-term impact and stability across the DAO community.

  Let's imagine for a moment. In an ideal world, what would the Big Green DAO look like in 5 years?
  In five years, the DAO will be a beacon of self-sufficiency and agricultural innovation, significantly impacting how communities engage with and benefit from growing their own foods on their own land.

  Based on your experience, what's the biggest challenge the Big Green DAO needs to overcome?
  Maintaining community engagement throughout the year and not just during the annual.

  What do you bring forward as a candidate that will set the DAO up for success?
  I bring a detailed oriented approach and a commitment to continuous improvement. I am an advocate for the needs of everyone in the DAO, making sure all voices are heard. My approach helps bring everyone together and moves our mission forward effectively.

  How would you define yourself in just three words?
  Resourceful, proactive, positive

  What makes you a great candidate to join the Big Green DAO Committee in 2025?
  The Healthy Earth Organization was selected in the third round of the DAO, giving me an opportunity to contribute to its growth and success. As a resourceful leader deeply committed to community engagement, I have navigated numerous challenges, from securing funding to adapting our operations in the aftermath of three major hurricanes that impacted our community. These experiences have sharpened my focus on steering our initiatives towards financial sustainability. I am eager to continue building on the legacy we are creating together as part of the Big Green DAO committee. My dedication to our collective mission— growing food changes lives — has driven The Healthy Earth to establish 14 early learning center gardens for at-risk families and youth, along with two community gardens that provide fresh produce to those in need helping over 500 families. We are excited to expand our impact with the addition of a new community garden in mid-2025.

  There are four areas of focus in 2025: federal funding, land access and stewardship, earned revenue/value-added strategies, and data/technology infrastructure for the DAO. How will you be able to add value and leadership to these areas of focus?
  I aim to leverage my expertise in strategic growth and building meaningful relationships to secure federal funding and improve land access and stewardship. I am deeply passionate about guiding all of our organizations within the DAO towards financial sustainability through innovative earned revenue and value-added strategies. As someone who is data-driven, I excited to utilize analytics to enhance our decision-making processes and ensure our initiatives are both effective and impactful.

  What is the future you see for the DAO? Where will we be after your three year term of service?
  In three years, I envision the DAO experiencing a profound transformation in operational effectiveness, which will enhance the financial health of each of its organizations and significantly boost our own community impact.