When Emily Gandara was growing up, she felt she never had a clear vision of what career path she wanted to take. She has a degree in Web Development and Design, but said the passion wasn’t there. She had never felt like she knew what she wanted to be when she grew up. Facing this dilemma Emily, and her husband, Emmanuel, decided to start a new beginning.
“We purchased our farm in 2023 and with no farming experience, we dove right in,” Emily said. They started off that first year renovating their 1880 farmhouse, growing a cut flower garden and a fruit and vegetable garden, and raising pigs and chickens. All the produce was either sold at their farm stand or the local farmer's market.
Wrapping up their first-year farming, the Gandaras’ had many goals to continue building, learning, and providing for their family and community.
“This first year on the farm is the first time that I feel like I’m right where I’m meant to be. Working on the farm centers me and sets my soul on fire all at the same time. So, at 35 years old and with 4 kids, I decided to head back to school.” Emily shared how fulfilled she is to have started this journey. To stick to her goals, she applied and received GreenStone’s CultivateGrowth Grant!
She used the grant to enroll in a program through Fox Valley Technical College on Agricultural Entrepreneurship. This program detailed the ins and outs of owning a farm operation. Emily noted she learned about business finances, farm equipment, crops, and animals. This course provided her with new knowledge as Harvest Moon Farm continues to grow and expand throughout the years.
In the coming years the Gandaras hope to dive deeper in their operation. “We want to provide our family and community with healthy, fresh food and beautiful flowers.” They also want to add more animals like turkeys, goats, and cows, as well as expand their flower garden and host pick-your-own flower events in 2025!
As the Harvest Moon Farm flourishes, GreenStone is proud to support agriculturalists like them. From the beginning we work to provide the educational and financial resources needed to help grow your passion for your operation. To apply for a grant, visit CultivateGrowth Grant | GreenStone FCS.
