Editors, Vineyard Gazette:

Before Meals in the Meadow this past Saturday night, I’m embarrassed to say I didn’t know all that much about the Farm Institute — mostly that a friend’s daughter was involved and loved it. But I left Saturday’s event with a sense of amazement and appreciation for all the Farm Institute does for the Island and, really, the world.

While enjoying appetizers and cocktails on Saturday, I had the opportunity to speak with a few of the people involved. One recent regional high school graduate described her post-college plans to develop a compost farm. Then a pair of young boys enthusiastically explained all the steps involved in creating compost. All around us was evidence of the institute’s significant and extensive educational efforts that both draw on Island traditions and shed light on contemporary concerns.

It was clear that the people who created and work at the Farm Institute change lives in profound ways, and deserve our support in whatever way we each can give it — whether through a financial donation, or a gift of needed equipment, or by purchasing Farm Institute products (now there’s a win-win). The website (farminstitute.org) offers an excellent overview of what is offered and what is needed, how we can all help and benefit from this amazing institution.

Brenda Horrigan

Falmouth and Vineyard Haven