ALMA Backyard Farms

ALMA Backyard Farms is a U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to urban farming, restorative justice, and community empowerment. The organization operates at the intersection of social justice and environmental sustainability, providing job opportunities and reintegrating individuals formerly incarcerated into society through agriculture.

Mission and Objectives

ALMA's mission revolves around three core objectives: reclaiming the lives of those formerly incarcerated, repurposing land into productive urban farms, and reimagining community as a thriving space for people and plants. By transforming vacant urban spaces into productive agricultural land, ALMA addresses food insecurity while offering holistic job training and mentorship programs.

Programs and Services

ALMA offers several programs designed to achieve its goals:

• Urban Agriculture Job Training: Provides individuals with skills in agriculture, carpentry, landscaping, and entrepreneurship. Since its inception, ALMA has trained over 500 individuals, focusing not only on vocational skills but also on personal development and mentorship.

• Peas-in-a-Pod Youth Education: Offers hands-on environmental stewardship and agricultural education to over 100 youth annually, with a Summer Farm Camp available at low to no cost.

• Farm Stand Social Enterprise: Acts as a hub for the community, distributing approximately 125,000 pounds of high-quality vegetables annually and serving over 500 families with access to affordable organic produce.

History and Milestones

Founded in the early 2010s, ALMA began operations with its first East LA Backyard Farm in 2015. Key milestones include expanding to South LA and launching its Urban Ag Job Training Program in 2016, breaking ground in Compton in 2017, and opening a Farm Stand in Compton in 2018. The organization celebrated its tenth anniversary in 2023 with the launch of a brunch service and initiated a capital campaign to expand its operations.

Financial Overview

As a 501(c)(3) organization, ALMA relies heavily on charitable contributions for its operations. Financial data indicates that contributions form the primary source of income, while the organization also generates revenue through the sale of its agricultural products. Executive and operational expenses are significant components of its budget, reflecting the organization's commitment to both staff development and program delivery.

Leadership

Key figures in ALMA include Richard D. Garcia, Co-Founder and Executive Director, who has been instrumental in guiding the organization's vision and growth. The board of directors includes members from diverse professional backgrounds, contributing to the organization's strategic planning and governance.

Impact and Vision

ALMA's vision is to create a sustainable model for urban agriculture that not only provides food security but also fosters a sense of community and connection. By transforming neglected urban spaces into vibrant farms and community hubs, ALMA aims to address systemic issues of incarceration, poverty, and environmental degradation while promoting a culture of healing and growth.