This year has been full of twists and turns, coming so often that I've barely had time to right myself before the next. So, for the patchy communication I apologize. I would also like to take this moment to deeply thank each and everyone one of you who has supported Old Growth Alchemy thus far. OGA was truly a work of love and I am beyond thrilled that it has continued to putter along and gain momentum. Currently, I am in the works of some recalibration as we come upon the 1 year (!!) anniversary of its unveiling this Autumnal Equinox.
One of these large changes has come via wrestling with some personal frustrations that OGA is not a direct service or direct benefit to marginalized, underrepresented, and communities that suffer as a result of the systems in place in our world and culture that OGA is admittedly benefiting from (white supremacy, patriarchy--I'm looking at you). I understand that there are many privileges that I have had as a white, educated, and somewhere-in-the-middle-class-ish woman (yes, even as a woman within a patriarchal society) which enabled me to bring my dreams to life with minimal struggle. At its heart, OGA is a way I can share the sensuality of nature and wonders of the wild with you all. But I want it to do more than inspire and delight.
To that end I have decided that each month, 10%* of gross profits will be donated to varying non-profit and charitable organizations.
To kick off the first round, today I have donated to the Vermont Food Bank thanks to all of your support. The mission of the Vermont Foodbank is to gather and share quality food and nurture partnerships so that no one in Vermont will go hungry. Those of you that know me, know that food is near and dear to my heart (and not just because I enjoy it!) and as I am currently residing in the state of Vermont and my harvests have come from Vermont soil, I wanted this first one to be close to my land and my community. It also just so happens that September is Hunger Action Month, so while I may be a few hours early- I am happy that the Foodbank was the first organization!
If you have any suggestions on future nonprofits to donate to, I will gladly consider them! I'll be posting each month on social media where the donations go so you all can be kept in the loop and know where your monetary support is heading.
I am so delighted for the future of OGA and will make another post shortly as things crystallize further. For now, enjoy the cooling weather and stay curious, my friends.
Yours in gratitude,
Ashley
(*edit: Originally, the intent was to donate 20%, but after a few months of trial with this number and with unanticipated needs for sustainable growth, the number has been adjusted to 10% with the hope of once again being able to increase it.)