Program is designed to support local veterans through indoor aeroponic agriculture and peer connection
Martinsville, Va. — Friends of Infinity Acres Ranch, an educational and therapeutic non-profit based in Henry County, will launch the Veterans Healing and Growing Greenhouse Initiative, funded in part by a $24,000 Pick Up the Pace (PUP) grant from The Harvest Foundation.
“This greenhouse initiative is a great example of innovation by addressing a critical need for support of our local veterans,” said India Brown, program officer at The Harvest Foundation. “This project opens sustainable pathways for healing and workforce development. We are also encouraged by the strong relationships and collaboration across area organizations with Infinity Acres to make this program even more successful.”
To celebrate this initiative, Infinity Acres will hold a formal greenhouse unveiling, a veterans bike ride, and a free “Concert on the Pond” on Saturday, June 13, at the ranch. The event is open to the public and centers on raising community awareness for veteran wellness and mental health resources.
“We are incredibly excited to see this project blossom,” said Laura Steere, co-founder and executive director of Infinity Acres, whose professional background as a psychiatric nurse deeply informs the program’s design. “This initiative integrates our existing animal-assisted therapies and music outreach with advanced sustainable growing systems, opening up a powerful new branch for healing. Our goal is to foster a compassionate space where veterans find a renewed sense of purpose, learn cutting-edge agricultural skills, and form lasting peer connections.”
The Harvest investment funds vertical aeroponic plant towers, growing mediums, shipping, system installation, and operational training. The physical greenhouse structure itself was constructed ahead of schedule through heavy community collaboration, including contributions from AMVETS Post 35, the Moose Lodge, the Elks Lodge, Virginia’s Neighborhood Assistance Program (NAP) tax credits, and individual local sponsors.
The project utilizes state-of-the-art vertical towers to produce high-quality, chemical-free leafy greens and herbs, such as arugula, butter lettuce, and basil, year-round without any herbicides or pesticides.
This farm-to-table model is built on local sustainability. Harvested crops will directly support regional veteran kitchens, local restaurants, and community resources like the Henry County Food Pantry. Any excess organic matter will be used to feed the ranch’s herbivore animals. Additionally, Infinity Acres plans to fill an open, part-time operational position for the greenhouse exclusively with a local veteran.
Infinity Acres continues to seek passionate volunteers of all abilities to assist across various branches, including greenhouse cultivation, animal care, landscaping, events, and educational programs. For more details regarding the greenhouse initiative, the June 13 event schedule, or volunteer opportunities, please visit www.InfinityAcres.org or call (276) 358-2378.
