OUR GARDENS
THE CREW
Without the time and dedication of our wonderful gardeners, coordinators, managers, and volunteers, our Community FaRM Garden wouldn’t be where it is today – thriving gardens at MACS and Newnham providing education, community, friendship, and food.
Our gardens have been shaped by many community members and both past and present gardeners. We thank everyone who has contributed to our gardens and helped bring them to where they are today.
Jay Dunn
Gardener
With a background in architecture and a passion for creating social spaces, Jay joined MACS FaRM Garden as a volunteer in 2020, eager to learn how to grow food on a larger scale and connect with the local community. Initially volunteering two days a week alongside Pete, Jay quickly embraced the challenge of growing food beyond the backyard and was inspired by Pete’s mostly organic approach and innovative techniques.
Now a Gardener, Jay’s focus is on making the community garden a thriving social hub—a safe and inclusive space where people can come together, be present, and form meaningful connections. Jay believes that a community garden is more than just a place to grow food; it’s a space where volunteers bring invaluable knowledge, and people step up to support one another, helping to balance the load.
For Jay, the true power of the garden lies in its ability to engage and unite the community, creating a space where everyone feels welcome and can contribute in their own way.
Pete Richards
Volunteer Coordinator
Pete is the heart and soul behind MACS FaRM Garden’s volunteer program. As our Volunteer Coordinator, he dedicates his time and energy to multiple community gardens, sharing his love for gardening and ensuring each space flourishes in the best condition possible.
For Pete, working outdoors among the birds, flowers, and greenery is a form of therapy. But it’s not just about the gardening—it’s about building connections. He believes in the power of community, where friendships are formed, people check in on each other, and knowledge about growing food is shared.
Since the MACS garden officially began in 2019 after years of planning, Pete has been instrumental in helping it become the thriving hub it is today. With 14 large garden beds, a BBQ space, trees planted, and plenty of room for children to play, the garden continues to grow—just like the community of volunteers who bring it to life.
Pete finds great joy in being part of something that not only supports the local community but also brings people together and fosters learning.
