Our First Youth Alumni Dinner
On the last bright day of fall, youth from five generations of farm alumni gathered back at a place many still call the safest in their lives — this farm.
The event wasn’t a fundraiser or a public gala. It was a gift — a night of joy, community, and good farm-sourced food created entirely for youth who’ve been part of the farm.
With this gathering we wanted to create a safe, celebratory space where alumni could share their journeys, reinforce their sense of belonging and enjoy a farm feast together.
Reconnecting Through Seasons
Since its founding, the farm has employed over 60 youth, many now working or studying beyond Hillsboro. Those who could join us gathered again to reconnect with old friends — and meet new generations carrying the work forward.
“Through the years I’ve heard from youth that the farm gives what’s hardest to find — a job, but also a safe place, a welcoming space, and a connection to nature and others.”
— Henney (Development Director), before the start of the banquet
There was a general feeling of joy. It was a special moment for the youth to see the farm in a new way – with the tool tunnel transformed into a glowing dining hall.
There were moments that felt like a sweet class reunion — laughter, hugs, and promises to keep in touch. One of Monica’s (Youth Program Manager) favorite parts was seeing youth run to grab the old reliable Valentina hot sauce from the break space, passing it around as ceremoniously as during snack breaks.
A Feast Rooted in the Land
In partnership with our friends Comida Kin — a farm-to-fork collective blending culinary creativity with cultural storytelling and rooted in local and regenerative agriculture – we delivered a menu made almost entirely with farm ingredients.
The feast began with Chileajo (vegetables in morita chile sauce) tostadas with black beans and queso fresco, alongside an Amuse-bouche of potato-leek soup.
Dinner continued with a choice of roast chicken or pork in verde sauce (using farm-raised chicken and pigs); quinoa and bean-filled chile rellenos; North Georgia Candy Roaster squash mash; roasted carrots and beets with Red Russian kale, dill, and cilantro; mashed pinto beans; spicy pickled vegetables; and corn tortillas and tostadas.
“This is bussin – I don’t usually eat vegetables/pork/chicken, but this goes crazy”
– Youth attendee
Dessert brought tres leches cake topped with yarrow and marigold petals. Drinks included hibiscus (jamaica) water and other soft drinks.
El altar y sus ofrendas
The evening also honored loved ones who are no longer with us. Our Day of the Dead Altar glowed behind the tables, covered in flowers, LED candles, and photos — including staff’s grandparents, a youth alum who left us too soon, and Pop Bill, a former steward of this land.
Everyone was invited to add a photo of their loved ones. David (Comms Manager) wanted everyone to feel included as he brought his most cherished tradition to the farm – one that paired beautifully with the gathering: a celebration of life and death, of food and harvest.
Long Gone, Never Forgotten
Typically, the Altar honors the elders of a family, or historical figures. Ours is dedicated to Larry Itliong, Filipino American civil rights activist who played a central role in the 1965-1966 California grape strike, and advocated on behalf of farm and cannery workers, immigrants, and Asian Americans.
Altars also traditionally include a religious figure at the center. Ours stands the presence of Pitao Cozobi – the Zapotec deity of corn, harvest, and abundance; patron of food and agriculture.
“I’ve never seen an Altar before. I feel moved, like I just want to spend time in front of it – like they are here.”
– Youth attendee
The Closure of a Season Is Never an End
At its core, WTF’s Transitional Employment Program helps youth use this job as a stepping stone into a larger world. Events like this help reconnect those who’ve passed through these fields, inviting them to see the farm in a different light.
“I’ve never seen the farm at night – it feels so much bigger”
“It’s cool to see everyone outside of their farm clothes – everybody’s personalities are out way more”
– Youth attendees
Thank You for Believing in the Power of Belonging
We are deeply grateful to our sponsors and donors who made this night possible. Your generosity turned an idea into an evening filled with laughter, warmth, and remembrance. Together, we created lasting impact for the young people we serve.
We hope to make this gathering a recurring tradition. If you’re interested in being one of our sponsors next year, we’d love to hear from you and create a special fund just for it.
To the volunteers that gave their time and creativity in return – we are deeply grateful.
When the harvest season arrives, so do our loved ones — and together, we remember, celebrate, and say thank you to the world that nourishes us.
