Our Staff

Originally from Bucks County, Sam began his farming career in central Virginia in 2010. After two growing seasons, Sam became the Farm Manager for Project GROWS, a youth oriented, educational non-profit farm from 2012-2016. With hopes of getting back to his roots in Bucks County, Sam left VA to manage the River park Farm in New York City. There he cultivated a unique set of production skills involving high quality, chef inspired produce. Over the years he has not only matured into a strong farmer but has developed a passion for teaching and growing a vibrant, healthy, and sustainable generation of young farmers and community builders.

Kevin Corcoran grew up in Long Valley and Randolph, New Jersey, where he developed a love for the outdoors, animals, and creative expression. Active in sports, church, and music, he spent much of his time playing guitar and writing songs—interests that continue to shape his perspective today.

Kevin went on to study philosophy at the University of Dayton, where he explored questions of meaning, identity, and how to live with purpose. This led him to pursue work centered around education and personal development, with a focus on helping others grow in a holistic and grounded way.

Over the years, Kevin has worked across a wide range of experiences, including summer camps, private childcare, home renovation, managing a holistic martial arts program, teaching at a nature-based elementary school, and farming on organic, regenerative vegetable operations. In 2023, he worked full-time on a regenerative organic farm led by a medical doctor using food as a form of medicine—an experience that deepened his interest in the connection between agriculture, health, and community. Throughout it all, he has remained active as a musician, performing in bands and as a solo artist.

Looking to expand his experience into livestock farming, Kevin joined Carversville Farm Foundation for the 2026 season as a seasonal livestock farmer. He is excited to be part of a program rooted in regenerative practices and food equity, and hopes to one day apply what he’s learning to help shape educational models that reconnect future generations to the land, their communities, and a more sustainable way of living.

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Ben Crooke is from Bucks County. He grew up on a local dairy farm where he learned to love working with cows, equipment, other livestock and the land. Being raised in the barn, field, and farm shop by a supportive, loving family instilled in Ben a great passion for farming. Active in local and state 4-H programs, Ben showed and judged cows and attended leadership conferences. He graduated from Penn State University with a degree in Animal Science, then for seven years worked on his family’s dairy farm and with his own dairy herd. More recently Ben ran his own dairy supply business, supplying dairy farmers in a 10-county area. After selling the business, Ben joined Carversville Farm Foundation in 2022 as the crop farmer/mechanic. He grows hay and other crops and fixes equipment on the farm. Some of his favorite things to do on the farm are helping others solve problems and creatively plan for what’s next in crop and livestock production. His wife and four young, energetic children are a constant source of strong support and inspiration. Ben really enjoys working with an upbeat, positive team on the farm, to produce healthy food for people in need.

Brenna grew up in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania. She went to school for Equine science and found her love for working outdoors through working with horses. After graduating, she worked on a small, organic farm and that is when her love for farming began. She started at Carversville Farm Foundation in spring 2022 and enjoys everything that is done here in support of the farm`s mission. She has taken charge of the production of the shitake mushrooms, which has become one of her favorite things to grow and harvest. She hopes to have her own small, sustainable farm one day and use all of the knowledge that she is learning at Carversville Farm.

Matt's farming journey began over 15 years ago with what he thought would be just a few backyard egg-layers. Often referred to as “the gateway drug to farming,” those first chickens quickly led to the addition of two family milk cows, Leah and Naomi - and from there, his passion for sustainable agriculture only grew.

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In 2014, Matt turned that passion into a profession, becoming the assistant manager at a farm in Upstate NY. By 2018, he advanced to the role of Farm Manager, overseeing the production of high-quality, pasture-raised meats and organically certified eggs. In 2022, he moved to Bucks County to manage a neighboring CSA, where he expanded operations, and introduced pork, chicken, turkey, and lamb to the farm’s offerings.

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Beyond farming, Matt has always been driven by a deeper purpose - using agriculture to serve others. He has worked at two non-profit farms, one serving individuals with special needs and another assisting those overcoming addiction. These experiences reinforced his belief that farming is not just about growing food; it’s about cultivating relationships, fostering resilience, nurturing the land for future generations, and ensuring that fresh, nutritious food reaches those who need it most—values that align perfectly with Carversville Farm Foundation’s mission.

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Matt joined Carversville Farm Foundation in December 2024, eager to bring his experience and passion to a team that shares his commitment to food equity and sustainable farming. He looks forward to many years of growing not just food, but opportunity and impact for the farm’s partners and the communities they serve.

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Tony grew up in South Philadelphia and South Jersey. After college, he tried on many careers from being a librarian to working at one of the world’s largest consulting firms.  He soon discovered that he was an entrepreneur at heart.  He founded two successful companies in the human capital market (HCM) field that he manages to this day. Soon, the success of these companies allowed Tony and his wife Amy to financially support various non-profits focusing on inner city children and education.  

In 2013, feeling that just writing checks wasn’t enough, Tony and Amy decided to become social entrepreneurs and founded Carversville Farm Foundation (CFF), a not for profit 350 acre farm located in Bucks County, Pennsylvania.  They wanted to apply their skills, time, and money to take direct action to help alleviate hunger in the greater Philadelphia area.

Knowing that only the richest one percent of our country can afford to purchase the most expensive, best tasting and healthiest foods available, they thought, ‘Why shouldn’t the underserved experience the same thing?’ and CFF was born.  The farm produces the best organically certified vegetables, pasture-raised meats and eggs available anywhere.  Everything is custom-grown and predictably available for donation to community kitchens and free farmer’s markets.  In addition, CFF provides onsite food and nature-related education and tours.  All products and services are provided to our partners free of charge ,year-round.  

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Jeff Eckel’s connection to beekeeping began in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania, where he grew up in Abington before moving to Philadelphia in 2007. That same year, he started keeping bees—an interest that quickly grew into a lifelong passion and professional pursuit.

Jeff went on to become a founding member of the Philadelphia Beekeepers Guild and spent years selling honey and nucleus colonies under the We Bee Brothers and Instar Apiaries names. From 2016 to 2025, he also served as an apiary inspector with the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture, developing deep expertise in hive health, management, and best practices while supporting beekeepers across the region.

Now, as Apiary Manager at Carversville Farm Foundation, Jeff is spearheading the launch and long-term growth of the farm’s commercial apiary program. In response to growing demand for local honey, the apiary is designed to scale over time—producing thousands of pounds of high-quality, locally sourced honey to be shared with Carversville’s partners and the communities they serve.

Jeff is excited to use his experience and knowledge to help ensure this high-quality product reaches people who may not otherwise have access to it, further advancing Carversville’s mission of nourishing communities through sustainable agriculture.

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Kenny’s passion for the environment began along the Jersey shore, where he spent much of his childhood hiking, fishing, and exploring the outdoors. As an avid outdoorsman and competitive tennis player, he always knew he wanted a career that kept him active and connected to the land. During his senior year at Ramapo College, an internship as a farm crew member at M.E.V.O. in Mahwah, NJ sparked his interest in vegetable farming—and soon after, he realized this was the career path he wanted to pursue.

What excites Kenny most about Carversville Farm Foundation is being part of an experienced, motivated team dedicated to growing and giving the highest-quality food to those who need it most. His passion for fitness and nutrition ties directly to the mission—he believes that access to fresh, locally grown, organic food empowers people to thrive and become the best versions of themselves.

Outside of farming, Kenny enjoys staying active, whether it’s playing tennis, fishing along the beach, or wading through creeks and rivers.

Philip Harder’s path into agriculture began during the pandemic, when he started growing food as a way to connect with his neighbors and the wider community in West Philadelphia. He created two communal gardens, efforts that, despite challenges with land access, deepened his commitment to community-based growing and food access.

After spending time working on an agroforestry farm in Maui, Philip returned to Baltimore, where he became deeply involved in the city’s urban agriculture community. What began as volunteer work with the Baltimore Free Farm grew into co-leading the Harwood Community Garden and serving as a board member of the Harwood Community Association. He also helped lead efforts to preserve the garden’s land through collaboration with the Baltimore Green Space Land Trust, further strengthening his dedication to equitable access to growing spaces.

In 2025, Philip expanded his experience working on farms in Washington State’s San Juan Islands, where he focused on intensive organic vegetable production, composting systems, and rotational grazing. Following an injury at the end of the season, he returned to the East Coast in early 2026, eager to continue building his skills in livestock management.

Philip joined Carversville Farm Foundation in March 2026, where he is excited to contribute to a model that prioritizes growing at scale for community impact, helping produce nourishing food for those who need it most.

Nicole’s roots are  in Levittown, PA, where she developed a deep appreciation for creativity, hard work, and community. She initially pursued an Art degree at Bucks County Community College before her adventurous spirit led her to Philadelphia in search of new career experiences. There she managed a small sandwich shop, took on the fast-paced world of bike delivery, and broke barriers to become the first woman on a small, but rapidly growing, dispatch delivery team. While she found fulfillment in these roles, she longed to be outdoors, working with her hands and reconnecting with the land.

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That desire brought her back home, where she found her true calling in sustainable agriculture. She began farming at a small family-owned organic non-profit, where she honed her  skills in renewable farming, and deepened her connection to  the local community. With every season, she continues to grow - just like the crops she nurtures.

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Nicole is passionate about sustainability, regenerative agriculture, and making a meaningful impact through farming. As part of Carversville Farm Foundation, she is dedicated to ensuring that fresh, nutritious food reaches those who need it most, all while fostering a deeper respect for the land. Her commitment to giving back extends beyond the fields, as she strives to build a healthier, more sustainable future for the global community - one harvest at a time.

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Maggie has always felt at home in nature. Growing up in Allentown, Pennsylvania, she developed a deep love for animals and the outdoors, which led her to pursue a degree in Wildlife Conservation and Management at Delaware Valley University. She graduated in December 2024, eager to turn her passion into meaningful work.

In March 2025, Maggie joined Carversville Farm Foundation as a seasonal livestock farmer, excited to gain hands-on experience in sustainable farming. After the 2025 growing season, she officially came on board as a full-time member of the Carversville team — a transition that reflects both her dedication and her growing commitment to the farm’s mission. She’s particularly drawn to the connection between ethical animal care, conservation, and providing nourishing food to those in need.

Maggie is deeply grateful for the opportunity to work alongside experienced farmers, learn from their expertise, and contribute to a mission-driven team. She looks forward to growing her skills, making a difference, and exploring how conservation and regenerative, organic farming can work together to build a healthier, more sustainable food system.

Khaleel Jackson’s path to farming began with a deep curiosity about the world. He studied Classics at Rutgers University, where he explored ancient history, architecture, and mythology. After graduating, he shifted his focus from studying the past to working directly with the land.

Khaleel began his career in agriculture working with CSAs, nurseries, and research facilities, building a strong foundation in plant care and production. Over the past three years, he has also worked professionally in cannabis cultivation, gaining hands-on experience in controlled growing environments and crop management.

Despite that work, Khaleel felt a pull back to farming, missing the connection to nature and the rhythm of working outdoors. He joined Carversville Farm Foundation for the 2026 season, where he is excited to return to vegetable farming and be part of a team dedicated to growing fresh, organic food for our food insecure communities.

Khaleel hopes to one day own and operate his own farm. Outside of the fields, he has a deep love of music. He played the trumpet for 12 years, is currently learning bass, and draws inspiration from artists like his favorite, Prince.

Lillian “Lilly” Kleckner’s connection to agriculture runs deep. Growing up on her family’s multi-generational farm in Bedminster, Bucks County, she developed an early appreciation for working with nature and caring for the land. Her family has stewarded the farm for over 120 years, and she is proud to be part of its fourth generation.

Lilly has been beekeeping on her own for the past three years, driven by a fascination with bees, mycology, and their connection to holistic health. Her interest extends into alternative medicine, where she has spent the last several years educating others on plant-based approaches and exploring how natural systems can support healing and overall well-being.

Her passion for health, sustainability, and environmental stewardship shapes her approach to both farming and daily life. Lilly is committed to supporting local farms, advocating for animal welfare, and promoting regenerative practices that prioritize the health of the land, its ecosystems, and the communities they nourish. She believes deeply in understanding where food comes from and the impact it has on both personal and environmental health.

Lilly joined Carversville Farm Foundation for the 2026 season as a Seasonal Beekeeper Assistant, where she is excited to support the growth of the farm’s expanding apiary program. Through this work, she hopes to help Carversville increase access to locally produced honey, a product that isn’t always available in food relief settings, while continuing to learn, grow, and contribute to a mission rooted in sustainability, education, and community nourishment.

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Ian Little grew up along the Gulf Coast of Mississippi and has spent the past five years farming diversified vegetables across Pennsylvania. His path into agriculture took shape at Sankanac CSA at Camphill Kimberton Hills, where he developed a deep appreciation for growing vegetables and providing food for others.

Ian recently completed a PASA farm management apprenticeship with New Morning Farm, where he gained hands-on experience across all aspects of farm operations. During his time there, he managed markets in Washington, D.C., served as a crew leader for a team of growers, and helped oversee the production of a wide range of crops, including lettuce, okra, tomatoes, and winter squash.

He joined Carversville Farm Foundation for the 2026 season and is looking forward to being part of a team dedicated to growing fresh, organic food for neighbors facing food insecurity across Greater Philadelphia and Bucks County.

Outside of the fields, Ian enjoys creative pursuits including painting, playing piano, and crocheting.

Ken is a lifelong resident of Hilltown, Bucks County, and a proud graduate of Pennridge High School and Moravian University, where he earned a B.A. in History. His deep roots in the local farming community began at age 14, working on area farms harvesting hay and grain. Over the years, Ken has gained extensive experience in beef production, lamb and wool husbandry, sheep shearing, and feed manufacturing.

He spent over a decade managing a racing stable of 18 Standardbred trotting horses and later ran a historic farm museum where he practiced traditional, horse-powered farming. Whether working with livestock, restoring agricultural heritage, or supporting sustainable practices, Ken’s life has been devoted to the land and those who depend on it.

Outside of farming, Ken’s love for teamwork extended onto the soccer field, where he played and captained at the youth, high school, collegiate, and club levels, including international tournaments. He now enjoys time with his beautiful wife - his elementary school sweetheart - and their two daughters. Together, they attend Moravian Central Church in Bethlehem, a congregation rooted in social justice and equality.

Ken brings his lifelong dedication to agriculture and community to Carversville Farm Foundation, where he is proud to support its mission of growing fresh, organic food for those in need.

Ryan is an organic vegetable farmer at Carversville Farm Foundation, where he is committed to growing nutritious, sustainably produced food for communities in need. Growing up in New Jersey, Ryan developed a deep connection to nature and gardening, sparking a lifelong passion for regenerative agriculture and food equity.
With experience on market and CSA farms, as well as a background in organic horticulture, Ryan brings a wealth of knowledge and a dedication to farming practices that nourish both people and the planet. He believes in the power of plants and music to thrive together, transforming lives and finding inspiration in the natural rhythms of the land, blending his love of farming with a deep respect for the environment.

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At Carversville, Ryan is proud to be part of a team that works to ensure fresh, organic produce reaches underserved communities. By growing high-quality vegetables with care and intention, he helps advance the farm’s mission of making healthy, delicious food accessible to all.

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Zach has a passion for land management. A lifelong local and lover of the outdoors, he graduated from DelVal University with a degree in business administration. Zach enjoys managing extensive properties and his previous experience includes five years at Pleasant Valley Farm in Hopewell, NJ. Now at CFF he keeps the property ship-shape, with close attention to every detail. Zach says his favorite part of working at CFF is the positive work culture, which he himself embodies by always being willing to lend a hand. Zach simply cannot get enough of the outdoors, so after a day of working outside on the farm, his favorite pastime is hiking and exploring with his beloved yellow lab.

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Amy’s connection to the outdoors began after college, when she combined her love of nature and working with youth by leading backpacking and hiking trips for middle school students in Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons. That experience sparked a lasting appreciation for the land and led her to move to Denver, where she continued to explore her passion for travel, food, and the outdoors.

Her career path took her through the group travel industry and into brand strategy and product innovation, primarily working with food and beverage companies. While she gained valuable experience, Amy found herself increasingly drawn away from office work and toward more hands-on, purpose-driven experiences connected to the natural world.

That pull led her to join StoryCorps, where she spent a year traveling the country in a mobile recording studio, collecting and preserving stories from people across the United States. Through these conversations, many with farmers, ranchers, and climate advocates, she developed a deeper appreciation for the role of agriculture, land stewardship, and local food systems in shaping healthy communities.

Inspired to engage more directly with this work, Amy began pursuing organic vegetable farming and deepening her understanding of soil health and sustainable food systems. She was drawn to Carversville Farm Foundation’s mission to provide fresh, locally grown, organic food to neighbors in need, and joined the team for the 2026 season.

Though new to farming, Amy brings curiosity, intention, and a strong desire to learn. She is excited to contribute to the farm’s work, grow her skills, and be part of a community dedicated to nourishing both people and the land.

Mike Navarria’s path into farming began with a desire to better understand what it means to be human and to reconnect with the natural world. In 2022, he took his first step into agriculture by volunteering at Sanctuary Farm, where he discovered a deeper sense of purpose in working with the land.

Motivated to pursue that path more fully, Mike made the decision to leave his role selling phones for Google and commit to farming as a career. He went on to work at Red Hill Farm in 2023 and 2024, where he gained hands-on experience in vegetable production and continued to grow his skills as a farmer.

Mike joined Carversville Farm Foundation for the 2026 season and is excited to be part of a team dedicated to growing fresh, organic food for neighbors facing food insecurity across Greater Philadelphia and Bucks County.

Looking ahead, Mike hopes to one day start a small market garden with his wife. Outside of the farm, his hobbies have mostly taken a backseat since becoming a dad, but he’s happily traded them in for playing hide and seek with his one-year-old daughter, Stella.

Wendy’s passion for agriculture, conservation, and community runs deep. Growing up in a small New Jersey farming town, she spent summers picking vegetables on her uncle’s farm and winters helping in her family’s butcher shop. As the granddaughter of a wildlife conservationist, she learned early on the importance of stewarding the land and supporting local food systems.

Raised in a home where the door was always open to those in need, Wendy understands the power of a shared meal and a helping hand. That same spirit of generosity is what led her to join the Carversville Farm Foundation team in the Spring of 2025 as Digital Communications Specialist. In her role, Wendy is dedicated to telling the story of CFF and its partners–ensuring the mission of providing fresh, organic, sustainably grown food to those facing food insecurity reaches and resonates with more people.

With more than 25 years in marketing communications, Wendy brings a passion for strategic storytelling that informs, inspires, and connects. She’s honored to support the Carversville mission and to be part of a team working toward a more equitable, sustainable food system. Her work focuses on elevating voices, amplifying impact, and making the heart of CFF’s mission not only visible–but deeply felt.

Grateful to be part of such a meaningful mission, Wendy finds balance in time spent with her family, getting her hands in her garden, and running agility courses with her two Shih Tzus.

Paris Parker’s interest in plants began while working in local nurseries, including time spent at Bowman's Hill Wildflower Preserve. These experiences sparked a deeper appreciation for native plants and the role they play in supporting healthy ecosystems.

Paris continued that work closer to home in Trenton, New Jersey, where he was involved in urban agriculture initiatives with the nonprofit Isles. Through this work, he developed a strong connection to community-based growing and the importance of expanding access to fresh, locally grown food.

Paris graduated from Rutgers University with a degree in Agriculture and Food Systems, with a focus on environmental planning. His studies and hands-on experiences have shaped a growing interest in sustainable land use and the relationship between agriculture, ecology, and community health.

He joined Carversville Farm Foundation for the 2026 season and is excited to contribute to a team dedicated to growing fresh, organic food for neighbors facing food insecurity across Greater Philadelphia and Bucks County.

Outside of the farm, Paris enjoys working with native plants across the region and playing in bands in Philadelphia.

Owen grew up just a short drive away, in Abington, Pennsylvania. He majored in environmental studies at Towson University and competed on their NCAA swim team. After graduating, he began looking for a career in the environmental field and learned of CFF.

Since coming on as an apprentice in February 2022, Owen grew into a full-time livestock employee, gaining hands-on experience across the farm’s animal programs. As of December 2025, he stepped into the role of Assistant Livestock Manager — a reflection of his dedication, growing expertise, and leadership in animal care and farm operations. He has a particular interest in animal welfare and livestock production and enjoys the purpose-driven work to produce and donate as much as possible.

Owen says he is grateful for the opportunity to learn from all of the experienced people here, and excited to continue pursuing a career in livestock farming.

Matthew Tomlinson grew up in Bucks County with a deep appreciation for real, organic food and a strong commitment to giving back to the community. As Carversville Farm Foundation’s dedicated delivery driver, he plays a vital role in connecting the farm’s sustainably grown produce and pastured proteins with the people who need it most in the local Philadelphia area.

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Matthew takes pride in ensuring fresh, nutritious food reaches underserved communities, finding fulfillment in the. the gratitude of those who benefit from his deliveries. His work is more than just transportation - it’s about bridging the gap between sustainable farming and food access, making a tangible impact on people’s lives.

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With an educational background in English, Matthew values creativity and storytelling, which he expresses through his artistic pursuits as a musician and cartoonist. He is proud to be part of a mission-driven team working to create a healthier, more equitable food system for all.

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Steven Tomlinson is a farmer and designer dedicated to advancing organic and regenerative agriculture. With a degree in Industrial Design from Pratt Institute and a Permaculture Design certification, he blends creative problem-solving with ecological land stewardship.

Steven began his farming career in 2009 as an apprentice on several organic vegetable farms. From 2012 to 2016, he founded and managed Great Road Farm in Skillman, New Jersey, where he grew high-quality vegetables for Agricola restaurant in Princeton and co-authored the Agricola Cookbook.

As the Farm Director at Carversville Farm Foundation, Steven plays a vital role in developing and shaping the farm’s mission-driven model—growing nutrient-dense food using organic practices to supply community kitchens and food pantries across Greater Philadelphia and Bucks County. He’s proud to lead a team of passionate farmers dedicated to nourishing people, regenerating the land, and building a more equitable food system.

Rooted in both design and agriculture, Steven brings creativity and systems thinking to everything he does—cultivating farming systems that are resilient, productive, and deeply connected to community.

Callie is a 10-year-old dilute calico domestic short-hair cat who joined the Carversville Farm team in early 2017 after being adopted from the Bucks County SPCA in Lahaska. She may have had a rough start – over six months in the shelter, a failed adoption, and a reputation for being less than fond of other animals – but we saw something special in her: fierce independence, sharp instincts, and a whole lot of untapped potential.

Callie quickly proved herself as an exceptional mouser, but we knew she couldn’t handle the whole farm solo–though we’re pretty sure she would’ve tried. She needed a partner she’d tolerate (or at least not chase off the property). Enter Eli: a timid tabby with impeccable manners and no desire to start drama. Somehow, his quiet vibe won her over. They’ve been an unlikely formidable, pest control dream team ever since - keeping our barns rodent-free and running smoothly.

Though Callie carries herself with serious "business-cat" energy - running a tight ship with zero tolerance for rodent nonsense – she’s surprisingly friendly with people. She’s often the first to greet visitors in the driveway, especially if there's a chance of attention or admiration. Confident, capable, and unapologetically herself, Callie reminds us that every cat deserves a second chance–and maybe a job title worthy of her sass.

Eli is a brown and black domestic short-hair tabby adopted from the Bucks County SPCA in Lahaska, who joined the Carversville Farm Foundation team in early 2017. What began as a quiet arrival quickly turned into a lasting legacy. Though shy at first, Eli became a steady, behind-the-scenes force on the farm. Hand-picked to be Callie’s partner in pest control, he brought balance to the barn cat duo with his gentle demeanor and sharp hunting skills. Together, they formed an unlikely but formidable pest control dream team—keeping barns and feed supplies critter-free.

In the winter of 2019, Eli took his duties a bit too seriously when he chased an intruding cat 50 feet up a tree. While the trespasser made a clean getaway, Eli took a tumble. Thanks to the attentive care of our farm manager and successful surgery to repair his leg, he made a full recovery and returned to work with his signature quiet determination.

After eight years of faithful service as Carversville’s beloved Mouser-in-Chief, Eli officially retired in December 2025—complete with a full pension and benefits—into the loving home of one of our team members. He’s transitioned beautifully to indoor life, where his days are now filled with catnip toys, cozy beds, sun-spot naps, radio listening sessions, and vigilant bird (and squirrel) watching from the window. Always dignified and always adored, Eli remains a cherished part of the Carversville family—just with a softer schedule and a lot more lounging.

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