Pammy Dyer Stewart has been recognized by Camden National Banks with its Leaders & Luminaries Award. This award celebrates the importance of effective nonprofit board leaders in our community. WHRL has been awarded $5,000, which Pammy has asked to go towards Incredible Edible Milbridge education efforts.
In 2013, Pam led WHRL in establishing Incredible Edible Milbridge (IEM). IEM is a series of public vegetable gardens and education initiatives designed to create a community that is stronger, healthier, and more food independent .
Now in its ninth year, IEM is WHRL’s most successful project. Initially just raised beds in front of local businesses, IEM has grown to include ten raised beds, a 14,000 square-foot pick-your-own garden next to the Red Barn Motel and a 19,000 square-foot vegetable garden at Milbridge Commons Wellness Park. All these gardens are free, public pick-your-own vegetable gardens and are open to everyone. In addition, free hands-on community workshops teach people how to grow, care for, harvest, preserve, and cook fresh vegetables. The gardens at the heart of IEM feed people but they also provoke conversations about food, nutrition, and the benefits of going organic.
Thank you for your passion, your caring, and your dedication to Women for Healthy Rural Living, Pammy. And a huge thanks to Camden National Bank for recognizing the amazing woman that Pammy is—and for valuing her leadership and commitment to WHRL.