Sometimes it takes a stranger to direct your path. And if you're willing to listen and take action, the doors to your life fling wide open.
That's what happened to Gerardo Martinez, Founder of Wild Kid Acres LLC, a community farm in Edgewater.
Gerardo and his family purchased a five acre lot in Edgewater after a life-changing trip to Africa, where he and his wife stayed on a farm in the middle of the jungle. They were so moved by the sense of community and human interaction, that they bought land in Maryland. Their goal at the time was to have a different way of life for their family.
What they didn't know was how to move forward with such a drastic decision on their part. They wanted to become farmers in some aspect, but the land itself needed a lot of care, and so did the home that was currently built on it.
And then a stranger showed up in their driveway; crying. They went out to check on the woman, and she asked to pet their goats. Confused, but wanting to console her, they obliged.
As they spoke with her, and enjoyed her company, the stranger suggested they open their farm to the public. A spark was lit, a connection made - and the start to Wild Kid Acres LLC took off.
We are a biodynamic farm, focused on soil regeneration, so that everything else will grow easily."
- Gerardo Martinez
Wild Kid Acres LLC is an educational farm, petting zoo and community center. Gerardo, his wife and two children live in the home that Gerardo and friends rebuilt on the property.
Passion runs this place. Truly. When you speak with Gerardo, he lights up about where they've been and where they're going. He has big dreams for their little farm, and the community is right by their side.
They have interns that help run the operation. A friend of one made them a sign for out front. And people just keep showing up, wanting to get involved.
When they're not sure what step to take next, it presents itself to them.
Every animal on the farm is a rescue or donation, and each animal serves a purpose.
Soil regeneration is high priority at Wild Kid Acres LLC. The land was in dire need when Gerardo and his wife purchased it. They had no top soil and the farm continually flooded.
That didn't stop them though. They did their research and got to work. They connected with Annapolis Compost and accept food waste to generate a large compost pile. In addition, they accept wood chips from a local tree service that is used like a large sponge, absorbing the excess water.
Every detail of this farm is very well thought out. And it's goal is to serve the community at a higher level. Wild Kid Acres LLC started a foundation in hopes to raise money for a barn/community center.
They have received tremendous support and interest from all sorts of businesses and organizations. They host private and public events, and operate on a reservation only basis.
We're overwhelmed with demand, but we don't have a barn yet. So all the revenue goes to the barn. Everything."
- Gerardo Martinez
Wild Kid Acres LLC has a list of events and functions, and it's been like that from the start. My daughter and I visited the farm for goat yoga. And we had a blast!
And this is just one example of the incredible work that Wild Kid Acres LLC is doing. They have therapists bring their clients for private sessions, a farmer's market pop-up, educational classes and so much more.
Wild Kid Acres LLC is a community gem. They have a beautiful vision for it's future and need funding to make it happen. If you would like to attend an event at the farm, or donate to their cause, please visit www.wildkidacres.org.or find them on social media at wild kid acres.
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