Friends of Frog Tree Farm

Friends of Frog Tree Farm acts as a bridge between the farm and the community. By organizing events, workshops, artist residencies, educational programs, and volunteer opportunities, the nonprofit fosters community engagement and promotes awareness about the importance of sustainable agriculture, food justice, and Black-owned businesses. This engagement strengthens the farm's connection with the community and helps build a network of supporters and advocates. 

Friends of Frog Tree Farm is a non-profit 501(c)(3), and plays a vital role in providing financial, community, and advocacy support, contributing to the success, resilience, and cultural significance of Frog Tree Farm as Minnesota's oldest multigenerational black-owned farm.

Rebecca Augustine holds the position of board chair at Friends of Frog Tree Farm. A dedicated professional, Rebecca serves as a counselor at Northdale Middle School in Coon Rapids, Minnesota. In addition to her counseling role, she actively contributes to fostering equity within the school community by serving on the school's equity team. Rebecca further extends her commitment to social justice by advising the Social Justice Club, where she plays a crucial role in guiding and inspiring students.

Beyond her contributions to education, Rebecca volunteers extensive hours to ensure the success of Friends of Frog Tree Farm and actively supports the farm's endeavors. Her multifaceted involvement in both education and community initiatives showcases her passion for making a positive impact, not only in the lives of students but also in the broader context of community and environmental well-being.

Gerry Huerth serves as the vice chair of the board for Friends of Frog Tree Farm. Widely respected as a retired college professor, Gerry's influence is acknowledged by North Hennepin Community College, which has dedicated its LGBT Center in Gerry's honor. Beyond academia, Gerry has a notable history of community service, having worked as a nurse for the United Farm Workers Movement and collaborated with Dr. Elisabeth Kübler-Ross on Maine's Hospice Board of Directors. Moreover, Gerry played a pioneering role as a member of the first-ever LGBT Student Club in the country, situated at the University of Minnesota.

In her capacity as the treasurer for Friends of Frog Tree Farm, Janine DeCoster brings a wealth of experience and resilience to the role. Throughout her career, Janine has defied gender norms by pursuing a path as a carpenter, a field traditionally dominated by men. Her journey has been marked by overcoming obstacles, and she has emerged as a torch bearer, showcasing her determination and commitment.

Janine's dedication to breaking down barriers extends beyond her professional life. Throughout her years, she has actively engaged in supporting nonprofit organizations, with a particular focus on making significant contributions to Habitat for Humanity. Her involvement in philanthropy reflects a deep-seated commitment to community development and the well-being of others.

Within the realm of Friends of Frog Tree Farm, Janine's role as treasurer is underscored by her valuable contributions. Her story is not just one of professional accomplishment but also a testament to resilience, determination, and a strong sense of community. Her ongoing commitment to nonprofit work, coupled with her role as treasurer, ensures that Friends of Frog Tree Farm continues to thrive and make a positive impact on the community it serves.

Vincent Birchard's multifaceted role as a board member of Friends of Frog Tree Farm and Assistant Branch Manager at TopLine Federal Credit Union's Maple Grove Branch reflects his diverse talents and deep-rooted commitment to community and stewardship.

At TopLine, Vincent's exceptional ability to connect with members stands out as one of his greatest strengths. With a genuine dedication to helping each member achieve their financial goals, Vincent's approach is characterized by empathy, expertise, and a keen understanding of the importance of generational wealth and land ownership, particularly within communities of color. As a certified financial planner and a young Black man, Vincent recognizes the transformative power of financial literacy and equitable access to resources, striving to empower individuals and families to build a secure and prosperous future.

Vincent's journey to Frog Tree Farm is woven with memories that span a lifetime. From his carefree days as a child, exploring the farm's natural wonders—catching frogs, swimming in the waters of the Crow Wing River, and traversing the winding trails that crisscross the property—Vincent's connection to the land runs deep. As a young steward of the farm, Vincent played an active role in its growth, planting trees that now stand as towering sentinels, safeguarding the landscape for future generations.

As a third-generation member of the Mitchell family, Vincent's commitment to the success of Frog Tree Farm is both personal and profound. He understands the weight of his responsibility in preserving and nurturing the land for the benefit of future generations, embracing his role with a sense of duty and reverence. Vincent's vision for the farm extends beyond its physical boundaries; it encompasses a legacy of sustainability, inclusivity, and community empowerment—a vision he is dedicated to realizing through his unwavering leadership and advocacy.

In Vincent Birchard, Frog Tree Farm finds not only a passionate steward but also a visionary leader committed to fostering a legacy of prosperity, equity, and environmental stewardship for generations to come. 

As a valued board member of Friends of Frog Tree Farm, Sam Mitchell brings a unique blend of dedication, passion, and personal connection to the organization. Serving as a devoted social studies teacher within the Minneapolis Public Schools system, Sam's commitment extends beyond the classroom, as he actively supports students in their academic endeavors. Utilizing an equity lens in his work, Sam ensures that every student has the opportunity to thrive and succeed, regardless of background or circumstance.

Sam's connection to Frog Tree Farm runs deep, rooted in cherished memories from his upbringing. Growing up on the farm, Sam holds fond recollections of his time spent amidst its natural beauty. Further strengthening his bond with the land, Sam and his family have a cabin situated on the original location of the farmhouse, adding a layer of personal history and attachment to the farm's legacy.

Driven by his profound connection to Frog Tree Farm and its significance in his life, Sam is deeply invested in its success. His enthusiasm for the farm's mission and vision is palpable, reflecting a genuine desire to see it flourish and continue to make a positive impact on the community it serves.

Through his role as a board member, Sam leverages his expertise in education, his commitment to equity, and his personal connection to Frog Tree Farm to contribute meaningfully to the organization's endeavors. His unwavering support and dedication serve as a driving force behind the farm's ongoing success and its ability to nurture both land and community for generations to come.