Our Mission in Action

The Monocacy Farm Project seeks to use land and resources at Monocacy Manor, in the Franciscan Tradition, to model stewardship and care of the Earth, foster community involvement, provide educational opportunities, and serve the needs of the poor.

In the Franciscan tradition of caring for the earth, Monocacy Farms employs energy-efficient and sustainable practices in each aspect of its operations. In addition to modeling responsible stewardship, the farm provides visitors and workshop participants with practical examples of sustainable alternatives through its guided tours and educational programs.

In 2019, the farm initiated a Pick Your Own program for those wishing to harvest fresh organic produce for their families. Ongoing phases of the project — as well as day-to-day operations on the farm — are managed in consultation with Rodale Institute and the Pennsylvania State University Agricultural Extension Office.

What We Do

Monocacy Farm Project utilizes land and resources at Monocacy Manor in the Franciscan tradition to model stewardship and care of the earth, foster community involvement, provide educational opportunities and serve the needs of the poor. MFP’s primary goals are to:

  • Educate ourselves and others regarding integral ecology with focus on sustainability and the responsibility of humans to care for all creation; collaborate with secular and faith communities to advance transformative action and a just transition of resources for future generations.

  • Provide area residents affordable access to fresh, healthy produce

  • Supply the local emergency food system with donor-sponsored produce during the spring and summer growing seasons.

  • Provide educational programs and hands-on experiences to learners of all ages and abilities, exploring relationships among agroecology, health, nutrition, and wellness.

  • Provide interns and volunteers hands-on experience in gardening, production farming, and agroecological practices.

Learn more about our work and our programs by viewing our introductory video above.

Our Team

Director: Sister Bonnie Kleinschuster, OSF
Co-Manager/Farmer: Eli Stogsdill
Co-Manager/Farmer: Anton Shannon Operations Assistant: Shelby Carr Creation Care Coordinator: Maryann Kearns
Fundraising & Events: Amy Baringer

Board of Directors
Kati LaBuda | President
Fusun Bubernack | Vice President
Ruth Herman | Treasurer
Kris Warner | Secretary
Kristen Lissy
Kevin Nadolski, OSFS
Mark Yundt
Sister Bonnie Kleinschuster, OSF (ex officio)
Sister Virginelle Makos, OSF (ex officio)
Eli Stogsdill (ex officio)
Charles Talaber