Check Out Rodney Smith’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Rodney Smith.

Hi Rodney, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself. 
After serving a 9-year, 9-month prison sentence, I felt like a disappointment to myself and my family and was determined to be a better human being. Honestly, I didn’t know what that would look like.; or where I could go as a 2-time felon, I knew I felt my options were limited. I got a job as a dish washer, but I knew there was something greater out there for me… a friend of mine suggested to me that I try going vegan based on the story of Shedrach Meshach and Abednego from the Bible. In this story, these 3 men ate plant-based for 10 days, and when they came before the king, they had a more glowing countenance than all other men, even those who ate from the king’s table. My friend told me there was a spiritual principle of actualization there and that I should try 10 days of fasting vegan. After switching to plant-based, I immediately felt brighter and more energized. On the ninth day, I was trying to describe this to someone in a line when a woman turned around and told me about this garden in south Phoenix. When I showed up to the garden, I was struck by the beauty of the landscape and the genuineness of the people there. I felt connected and at ease… 

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has been a smooth and amazing journey ever since I started first volunteering with TMF. Everyone there was so helpful, loving, and supportive. I was always thirsty for more and couldn’t get enough of the things I was learning in the garden. In about 4 months, I had transitioned from a volunteer to a part-time paid position, then moved to a community outreach supervisor, Then a garden manager. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Currently, I’m a garden manager that oversees all garden operations… I’m humbled by that title because I’ve only been in the garden for two years. I wake up every day thinking about how I can make a positive impact on my community. Whether it’s planting seeds that will turn into healthy food for members of the community. Or it’s connecting someone in need of assistance with resources that will change their lives. TMF has equipped me with the tools and skills to be a force for positive growth. 

Any big plans?
Since starting with TMF and taking advantage of the mentorship here, I’ve been able to launch my plant-based eating and education Grow Space. I launched about a year ago, and my mission is to help people understand the life-changing nutritional benefits of the food that anyone can grow at home. Even if all they have is a windowsill, you can grow herbs that will have medicinal benefits… I’m looking to bring the total education from seed to plate. Eating more vegetables and fruits helped change my life and feel better and I’d like to share that with the world. Also, I’m currently enrolled in UNIVERSITY of Arizona Cooperative Extension’s agricultural class to become a master gardener. 

Contact Info:

• Website: https://tigermountainfoundation.org/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tigermountainfdn?igsh=c2F3ZnR1aGt4NGhj
• Other: https://growspacekitchenllc.squarespace.com/meet-the-founder-and-ceo