After more than 15 years of dedicated service, last year David Outerbridge stepped down from his volunteering in support of Gaining Ground. 

David—who turned his retirement into a period of keen effort caring for the land and structures on the farm—was a regular and beloved presence among the farmers and volunteers. Last summer, as he concluded his service, David shared with us the following:

“It’s a funny thing about Gaining Ground, it gets into your blood, becomes part of your identity. When asked what I’m doing, I say I’m working at a farm in Concord, even though I’ve never planted a seed, pulled a weed, or harvested a vegetable. Yet for the past several years I have felt that I have been part of a community. You have given me friendship, a sense of purpose by being part of an important shared endeavor, and work, which for someone my age is a very good thing. So it is I who owe you a debt of gratitude, something I have felt every day I have been here.”

David has always been a problem-solver and his support helped to ensure the farmers could dedicate themselves fully to growing the highest quality produce for our hunger-relief efforts. We are forever grateful for the time, effort, and kindness he shared with us.