A Week of Gardens and Growth
This past week, members of our board, Melissa Bové, Kennith Watts Jr., Shady Mohamed, and Andrew Febre, embarked on market research across North Carolina to deepen our understanding of how mission-driven farms and community programs are building sustainable, inclusive spaces. The goal was to connect with models that align with Verdant Valor Sanctuary’s long-term vision:
To be North Carolina’s leading nature therapy center for Veterans and Adults with IDD.
Peacehaven Community Farm – Inspiration in Action
Whitsett, NC – Sunday, October 19
The week began with Peacehaven’s Harvest Celebration, an event that truly set the tone for our learning. Peacehaven operates on 8 acres of its 89-acre property, having grown steadily for over 15 years before expanding into full residential living just 18 months ago. From building a community barn to developing residential homes and planning a Phase 2 expansion (including an event space, café, and additional housing;) they provided a valuable perspective on how gradual, intentional growth sustains long-term success.
Peacehaven’s success in raising over $15 million toward an $18.5 million goal shows what’s possible when a community invests deeply in inclusion and sustainability.
On Wednesday, October 22, Andrew was invited back for a private tour of the farm with Cory Phillips, Director of Advancement. During the visit, Andrew observed the strong sense of positivity and peace that continues to drive Peacehaven’s executive leadership. Cory later followed up with a message that underscored their openness to collaboration and shared mission, writing:
“Howdy! So glad we could connect at the Groundbreaking; what a day!
Andrew and I just parted ways after a great start to the day on the farm. As I shared with him, our farm is always open to you as you build out your vision. Looking forward to future visits and conversations…”
This gesture of partnership and transparency reflects the type of collaborative spirit that strengthens community-based innovation across the state.
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AgCarolina Farm Credit – Financing the Vision
Raleigh, NC – Tuesday, October 21
At AgCarolina Farm Credit, our team learned the nuances of land valuation and agricultural lending, including the “land in transition” framework—helping buyers access better loan-to-value ratios depending on per-acre pricing. The discussion opened opportunities for a line of credit structure that rewards farms for increasing their property’s value through sustainable improvements.
This meeting also confirmed that fresh produce and cut flowers are among the region’s strongest commodities, which is a fitting note for our floral program. The AgCarolina team expressed strong interest in supporting Verdant Valor Sanctuary’s innovative approach, providing both financial guidance and realtor connections across the region.
North Carolina Mental Health Licensure Training – Building the Clinical Framework
Raleigh, NC – Tuesday, October 21
The Mental Health Licensure Training was a 4 hour training that outlined how to align our physical development timeline with the clinical and operational licensing process. The training reinforced that we must establish structures, staffing, and programs before activating our clinical services—ensuring readiness within a six-month approval window.
Shady and Kennith’s proposed timeline emphasized a balanced flow: land acquisition, farm buildout, structural approvals, grant reassessments, and finally, program licensing. This roadmap now guides our internal development calendar.
N.C. State Fair – Finding Creative Incentives
Raleigh, NC – Wednesday, October 22
The North Carolina State Fair trip provided both inspiration and practical opportunities. The NC Forestry Service introduced us to cost-sharing programs for land clearing and reforestation, offering financial efficiency for trail and woodland development. Seeing the floral design and produce contests also sparked ideas for vocational programming—envisioning Verdant Valor Sanctuary participants competing or exhibiting their work as part of our therapeutic and entrepreneurial activities.
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12:03AM Farm – Partnership Potential
Faison, NC – Thursday, October 23
The week concluded with a visit to 12:03AM Farm. Shady, Melissa and Kennith experienced an energizing meeting with Farmer Darius McKoy. He served and retired from the Air Force after 22 years. He reported that he does not come from a farming family but he is part of a farming apprenticeship where he and his wife continue to learn and teach others how to start farming. Darius explained that he enjoys experimental farming methods by combining traditional, raised bed, and vertical systems. His dedication to serving underrepresented markets and using farming as a problem-solving tool makes him a natural future partner.
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Looking Ahead
I’d like to personally thank everyone that took the initiative to come out and investigate what North Carolina has to offer. From financing and licensing to inclusive farming designs and partnerships, every stop reinforced that our mission is not only essential but very much achievable. We now move forward into the next phase: refining our land acquisition strategy, deepening partnerships, and expanding grant development.
Together, we’re cultivating a future where growth, both personal and agricultural, is deeply rooted in purpose.
Developing growth from the ground up
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