Supporting local food systems by connecting community, food & place
Savory Thymes was a philanthropic initiative, co-founded by myself and Hans Schoepflin, Entrepreneur, Philanthropist and Founder of the Panta Rhea Foundation. Savory Thymes provided fully supported; thoughtfully designed events, for artists and grass-roots social and environmental justice organizations. At each event, activists, artists, enthusiasts, leaders and philanthropists convened within the inspirational landscape of Hillside Gardens and Apiary, and cross-pollinated ideas, built alliances and leveraged resources. Beauty, abundance, generosity, inclusivity and deep care for community, and the earth, were at the heart of our shared values.
For over 13 years, as Hans' chef and orchestrator of Savory Thymes, I immersed myself in the Bay Area food culture. Through my work, I cultivated relationships with the growers, producers and artisans that provided food for our events. Savory Thymes’ culinary success is due to the abundant varieties, breeds, and flavors of the food purchased from the farmers market.
My relationships with the farmers, producers and the communities that Savory Thymes supported, influenced my lasting advocacy for food justice and the importance of fostering regional foodsheds.
