A New Beginning—Rooted in Community
For nearly 18 years, I have had the privilege of working alongside international agricultural workers and the farming community.
As I step forward from my role as Manager of Community Development at CCSYR, I do so with deep gratitude for the partnerships, friendships, and experiences that have shaped this journey. Working alongside farmers, industry professionals, community organizations, and international workers has been both rewarding and inspiring.
The services and programs we have built together are important, and I remain committed to ensuring that this work continues to grow and thrive.
Last year was filled with meaningful moments. We brought together farm and community musicians for worship nights, celebrated the women who work on our farms through special events, and hosted sports days, pop-up game nights, and prayer and worship gatherings. Seeing farms come together in community was truly inspiring, and that same spirit will continue through The Chill Spot.
This year marks an exciting milestone as we launch our first online issue, reaching more than 40,000 farms across Ontario. Being rooted in Norfolk County has provided a strong foundation for building lasting relationships with farmers, organizations, and international agricultural workers, and we look forward to expanding those connections across the province.
On July 5, we will host our third annual Farm-to-Farm Tug of War and Soccer Match, where members of the OPP will once again take to the soccer field against international farm staff. Maybe this will be the year they finally win!
Be sure to register your farm’s tug-of-war and soccer teams for what promises to be another exciting day of community, friendly competition, and fun.
Thank you for being part of this journey. As we move forward, everything we do remains rooted in community—the heart of our farms, our relationships, and our shared future.
Looking forward to another wonderful year,
Leanne Arnal
Publisher
