DIRECTOR OF GARDEN JOY

a mother of two, Maxine and Harvey, and a wife to Aaron lives on a ranch just outside of town and is part of a farming family. She initiated Garden Joy in 2016 to teach local kids, like her own, about where food comes from and the importance of gardening and spending time outside. It started as a way to give back and include her children in community service. Sarah finds joy in seeing children enjoy the experience of being outside and trying new things.

RIPON FARMERS MARKET DIRECTOR

GARDEN JOY BOARD MEMBER

founded Studio Joy in 2016 as a way to practice Pilates for all ages, bodies, and levels. To her, community is life. Community gives her purpose. When Sarah Darpinian approached her with the creation of Garden Joy, it was a dream come true to add another space for people to belong, discover, and connect. Jolene believes "beautiful things happen when nurturing and healing together."

GARDEN JOY BOARD MEMBER

introduces herself as a passionate gardener. Alongside her husband, Michael, they raise three children: Lila, Maxwell, and Juliet. Lacee's love for growing flowers began as a small girl in her Oma's garden. Cultivating living things brings her joy and appreciation for life unlike anything else. She's grateful to be a part of Garden Joy, where they can share this amazing experience with children in the community. "Seeing kids' eyes light up as they begin to discover the world of gardening is exciting!"

GARDEN JOY BOARD MEMBER

was born and raised in a big family in Fresno. She graduated from Fresno State University. She met her husband, Connor, in San Luis Obispo. After getting married, they planted their roots in Ripon to be close to Connor's family/farm in Escalon. Tara's background in sales and marketing led to her career in Real Estate. She is a top-producing realtor with PMZ Real Estate. Her pride and joy are her three little girls. Tara is honored to be a part of the Garden Joy board, and she appreciates being a part of a nonprofit that gives back to the community by helping feed local food pantries. Tara believes that teaching children about gardening and farming is important to upbringing. She believes getting their hands dirty and showing them the process of watching something grow and nourishing their bodies is a beautiful gift. Faith, family, and friends are the three most important things in Tara's life.

GARDEN JOY BOARD MEMBER

has served as the CEO of the Ripon Chamber of Commerce for the past five years. As a dedicated community connector, she tirelessly advocates for local businesses and spearheads engaging events that bring the community together. Her enthusiasm, love for gardening, and passion for collaboration drive her efforts to showcase all the wonderful things Garden Joy has to offer. Kelly is also an active member of the Ripon Lions Club and a monthly collaborator with Greet Ripon magazine.

GARDEN JOY BOARD MEMBER

feels fortunate to have called Ripon "home" her entire life. Giving back is essential to her, and the vision behind Garden Joy is inspiring. Growing up in a farming family, Tanya has a love for all things agriculture. Teaching kids and adults about growing their own food and being a part of the many wonderful things Garden Joy does for their community is very special to her, and she's honored to be a part of it!

GARDEN JOY BOARD MEMBER

expresses her gratitude for being a part of the Garden Joy community. She finds the endless love and altruism that embodies all things Garden Joy nothing short of inspiring. Kristin is excited to support the Garden Joy team in their vision to expand their reach and hold a warm spot in many hearts to come.

DIRECTOR OF EDUCATION

FARM MANAGER

RECIPE KIT LEADERS