Lisanne Finston: Priscilla, it’s so good to connect with you. Let’s start at the beginning—what aspects of Gould Farm’s community and structure were most helpful to you in your recovery journey?
Priscilla: The all-inclusive community of guests, therapists, and staff really made me feel like I wasn’t alone. Even though we were all working on our individual recovery, we were doing it together. I had a support system. The structure of the day helped, too—I really looked forward to Morning Meeting and being part of the Garden Team.
Lisanne: It sounds like the combination of structure and community made a real difference. Did working on the farm at Gould inspire your current passion for farming?
Priscilla: Absolutely. I learned about the Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) model at Gould, and now I’ve implemented it at Priscilla’s Farm. Growing nutritious vegetables and contributing to my community gives me the same sense of purpose and meaning I first experienced at Gould.
Lisanne: That’s incredible. Were there any particular skills or experiences at Gould Farm that prepared you for running your own farm today?
Priscilla: Learning about seeding, transplanting, and harvesting gave me the foundation I needed. But more than that, working alongside guests and staff from different backgrounds taught me acceptance and patience. Now, I bring that same openness to working with my own employees and volunteers.
Lisanne: It’s amazing how those early lessons carry forward. Was there a particularly memorable or transformative moment from your time at Gould Farm that stands out?
Priscilla: The first harvest. I remember pulling radishes from the earth—feeling the sun, the dirt on my hands—it was beautiful. That feeling of possibility has stayed with me.
Lisanne: Farming seems to be more than just work for you. What role does it play in your overall well-being now?
Priscilla: Farming teaches me to move with the seasons, to accept loss, and to keep going. Developing daily routines is grounding—it helps me stay balanced through life’s ups and downs.
Lisanne: That’s such valuable wisdom. What advice would you give to current or future guests at Gould Farm who are on their own recovery journey?
Priscilla: Be kind to yourself. Recovery isn’t linear—it takes time, and you can’t do it alone. Reach out, build those connections, and let people support you. That’s what made the difference for me.
Lisanne: Thank you for sharing your story, Priscilla. It’s inspiring to see how the roots of your time at Gould Farm are growing in your life today.
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