Today is Earth Day but VMRC practices sustainability all year long. Here are some of the ways we give back to our earth:

Solar and Renewable Energy
Since 2017, the majority of electric power for our Farm at Willow Run has been generated by a 9.9 K photovoltaic solar array installed on the barn roof. In 2020, solar panels were added to Village Hall and a grant program was established to provide $3000 to any Park Village resident who wishes to add a solar array to their home.

In 2022, all of the lights in Crestwood Assisted Living will be replaced with LED lighting thanks to a grant from the family endowment of resident Cal Redekop.

Composting
In 2019, a scalable, science-based composting program was started. More than 80 tons of on-site compost has been produced for soil building.

Food ProductionOur farm grows the majority of the produce served in Dining which means residents get nutritious freshly harvested food free of pesticides. Produce that doesn’t get used is donated to local food pantry, Patchwork Pantry. In 2021, nearly 4,000 pounds of food was donated.

Pollinators
In addition to vegetable production, the farm also grows perennial flowers and herbs, attracting pollinators and beneficial insects. Bees and a beekeeper are recent additions to the farm.

Recycled Building Materials
Surplus items from refurbishments are donated to Mercy House and Gift and Thrift and for the rebuilding of homes in West Virginia and Kentucky through the organization SWAP (Sharing with Appalachian People). We also work with local contractors who remodel homes for people in the need in the community.