Joe Smisko, Volunteer - The Giving Farm

Joe grew up in Pennsylvania, received an Environmental Engineering degree from Penn State University, and moved to Orange County for a job with the Los Angeles County Sanitation Districts.  Over my many years there, I designed and/or managed solid waste recycling and energy recovery facilities along with innovative designs for water recycling.  These projects ranged in size from $1,000,000 to $90,000,000.

The Road to Solutions for Urban Agriculture

After retiring in 2019, I felt my life had been so blessed, so I began volunteering at various non-profits to give back.  However, when Covid hit in spring of 2020, many shut down to volunteers, but the Giving Farm was allowing volunteers that I found through the CAPOC (Community Action Partnership of OC) volunteer website.

I don’t have a background in agriculture but when I was about 10, I thought I wanted to be a farmer since they work outdoors and grow food for people.  It seemed such a noble cause but later I learned how many hours they must work so I “settled” for engineering.  Since I was 10, I have always had a vegetable garden when I had access to any plot of land.  In my yard, I currently have 8 fruit trees and several raised beds for vegetables that I donate when there is extra.

Connecting with the Mission

Joe strongly agrees with Solutions for Urban Agriculture’s mission of growing nutritious food to sustain healthy communities.

For the last 3 years have volunteered 1 to 3 days per week at The Giving Farm.

“Besides helping the community, I enjoy volunteering at the Giving Farm for the interesting variety of projects, for the camaraderie of like-minded volunteers (you meet the nicest people), and of course to enjoy the outdoors and to stay in shape.”

“We so appreciate the tremendous effort from our dedicated volunteers! The individuals that come to our fields to support their community form the backbone of all SFUA is able to accomplish!”

- A.G. Kawamura