“If war has an opposite, gardens might sometime be it, and people have found a particular kind of peace in forests, meadows, parks, and gardens”- Rebecca Solnit, Orwell’s Roses
Meet Kendall, a Colorado native who has defied the odds and transformed her life through resilience and determination. Growing up in foster care, she faced poverty, uncertainty, and a lot of instability. Struggling to emancipate from the system with no support system, she later struggled with addiction and homelessness. However, with determination and resilience, she refused to let the herself fall to the statistics of those who emancipate from the system. Kendall found a path to sobriety and a fresh start in Spokane, Washington. There, Kendall discovered a new sense of purpose and belonging. She met a supportive partner, and together they're raising a bright and curious child. Inspired by her experiences, Kendall founded Community Grows Land Works, a nonprofit that harnesses the power of urban farming and community to heal and bridge food gaps. Through this work, Boots’ has unlocked the transformative power of nurturing life and growth. In the garden, she finds solace and peace, and in the lives of others, she sees the impact of kindness and support. Her story is a testament to the human spirit's capacity for redemption and hope, along with its ability to overcome adversity. With a heart full of love and a commitment to helping others, Kendall is dedicated to building a stronger, more nourishing community, one seed at a time.