Intervale Center Summary

“Why not aim to grow much more of Vermont’s fresh food in Vermont?” That was Will Raap’s question. In 1983 Rapp, who blends Jerry Garcia’s values with Bill Gates’ business acumen, approached then-Mayor Sanders (now a U.S. Senator) with ideas for expanding Burlington’s local food system using “the Intervale” -- 350 acres that were historically important but had fallen into desuetude.

Remembers Rapp, “our goal was to be an economic development catalyst for the community with land-based enterprises that could help restore the Intervale and transform the local food system.”

Mayor Sander leased its land to Rapp, who launched a composting program and the state’s first CSA. Since, the Intervale Center has created a thriving web of for-profit enterprises and non-profit educational programs that have become the backbone of the northern Vermont’s food system, including a youth education program, a food-business incubator for established farmers, a land preservation initiative, community outreach programs, the state’s biggest CSA, and Burlington’s county composting program. Revenue from these businesses supports public education efforts, including job training to at risk youth, a gleaning project, and ways for kids to engage with local food producers.

Former Executive Director Kit Perkins says “the essence of the Intervale is sustainable development, and the vehicle is farms and food. Through land- and farm-based enterprises, we generate social and economic opportunities and protect environmental resources.”

Each program is evaluated against a triple bottom line of profitability, environmental sustainability, and social responsibility. “Take our Youth Farm,” continues Perksin. “We are mitigating poverty, getting fresh local foods to families in need, training kids in nutrition and entrepreneurship, breaking the cycle of the poverty they’ve been living in.”

The Intervale Center combines for-profit management, non-profit social enterprise, a deep sense of place and a commitment to the surrounding land.

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