Martha’s Community Farm: Through the Perspective of a Villanova University Intern
Emily Barber, M. Louis Fitzpatrick College of Nursing Class of 2028
As an ambitious first-year college student, I have become involved with numerous organizations, one being Martha’s Community Farm through Villanova’s Philadelphia Area Social Justice Internship. Initially, working on a farm may not seem related to my pursuits in healthcare, but Martha’s mission is deeply ingrained in this field. In 2024 alone, 7,924 pounds of freshly harvested food were collected and distributed to the farm’s partnered food pantry, Martha’s Choice Marketplace, which is the largest and most visited food pantry in Montgomery County. Combating food insecurity is a crucial step in combating illness. This astonishing number of nutritional servings is grown without the use of herbicides or pesticides; Martha’s prioritizes cultivating healthy, high-quality food for consumers in need.
A Therapeutical Journey
Upon starting my internship, I was particularly enthusiastic about contributing to such an essential cause; however, I had not realized how beneficial it would soon become for my personal growth. Whether it be via nature, connection, exercise, or service, I have found myself extremely joyful on the days I spend on the farm. According to a systematic review, nature was identified as a core therapeutic theme, as stated, “Recent studies suggest that exposure to green and blue spaces can significantly reduce stress levels and improve psychological well-being, making nature an essential element in mental health” (Troughton et al. 2024). Additionally, I could not agree more with the participants who, “emphasized the value of supportive and authentic connections with mentors and peers in enhancing therapy outcomes and personal growth. The informal, open environment provided by nature-based settings allowed for more genuine interactions and a breakdown of conventional power dynamics often present in more clinical settings” (Troughton et al. 2024). At Martha’s, I have had the opportunity to engage with volunteers, lead groupwork, and be part of an all-equal team. Having such pleasant conversations while doing tasks like harvesting strawberries and herbs or planting watermelon and peas truly uplifted my spirit, and I am sure that of others. I am grateful to have been welcomed to an atmosphere that facilitates connection and personal growth.
Finding Meaning through Work
In an age where one’s work life tends to steadily become a main priority, one must understand why they are contributing to their specific job. As an intern at Martha’s, I have never had to reflect deeply on why I was there─the farm’s mission and indispensable impact have been explicit since day one. In Roman Krznaric’s How to Find Fulfilling Work, it’s stated regarding one’s work life that, “They want something more: to make a positive contribution to people and planet, and to put their values into practice…We want to be able to look back in old age and feel that we have left our mark” (Krznaric, 2014). When I think about my passions, I dream of making positive impacts in healthcare, and at Martha’s, I have been able to begin this vision. I have provided food for those with scarce access on a full-circle scale; from a seed I planted, to a distribution I harvested, to then in the hands of those in need. Without the community at Martha’s, I would not have been able to experience such a holistic and sustainable approach to non-profit work. Again, as Krznaric states, “it seems that the prize of meaningful work goes to those who pursue intrinsically rewarding jobs that make a difference, use their talents or reflect their passions” (Krznaric, 2014). As I wrap up my internship, I could not be more thankful for the contributions that Matha’s guided me in making; working for a non-profit organization is something that I believe everyone should strive to pursue. My time at Martha’s Community Farm has been both special and rewarding.
Purpose Connection Learning
Martha’s Community Farm is located in Audubon, PA, for more information visit www.marthascommunityfarm.org.
Martha’s Community Farm is always receptive and open to capstone projects, research, and internship opportunities.
Work Cited
Krznaric, R. (2014). How to find fulfilling work. Picador.
Troughton, A., Chin, M., & Amankwaa, I. (2024). Nature as a therapeutic place and tool for enhancing service users’ engagement in Mental Health Services: A comprehensive synthesis of evidence. Health & Place, 89, 103344. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.healthplace.2024.103344