Today we’d like to introduce you to Shellyn Shoenthal.
Hi Shellyn, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
For over 20 years, my passion has been the people, places and causes I have had the honor of being an ambassador for, so I want to take this opportunity to share my latest mission, Plant It Forward’s (PIF). PIF’s story began in 2011, when the O’Donnell family set out to help newly resettled refugees, many with deep agricultural roots, rebuild their lives here in Houston through the work they knew best – farming. A group whose hands and hearts were already attuned to the rhythm of the earth. Together, with the help and generosity of the community, the dream of PIF was born, and a vision for our newest neighbors to plant roots, both in the soil and in their new home.
From humble beginnings, with some farmland from a nearby church and a group of dedicated teachers and supporters, PIF launched its first farm. Nearly 15 years later, we are a mighty connection of five PIF managed farms, and a larger network of 50+ farms that sell into our Food Hub and collaborate to share resources with fellow farmers to feed Houstonians.
As we embark on the next chapter, we are thrilled to offer multiple pathways for the next generation of agriculturalists. From supporting independent farming ventures to inviting participation in our cooperative farm initiative and connecting with partner farms, we are building a strong network for growth. With the support of our partners, we are expanding Houston’s agricultural workforce, turning idle land into thriving farms, and creating new pathways for fresh, responsibly grown produce to reach plates across the city.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Farming, by its very nature, demands resilience and tenacity. You’re constantly at the mercy of forces beyond your control, the weather, the seasons, and the unpredictable challenges that come with working the land, especially in a region like ours. At Plant It Forward, we also navigate another layer of unpredictability, funding and partnerships. Our ability to serve farmers and sustain our programs depends on those resources, so when they fluctuate, we must adapt.
What’s remarkable, though, is how much we’ve learned through this process, particularly from the refugee farmers we’ve worked alongside for over 15 years. Their strength, perseverance, and ability to rebuild from adversity have deeply shaped our organization. Those lessons have given PIF a unique advantage; we know how to weather storms, both literal and organizational, and continue moving forward no matter the challenges.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I may be a Development & Partnerships Director by title, but I approach my work as an advocate. Someone who dedicates their work to the causes that need champions. My role goes far beyond raising funds or building partnerships; it’s about connecting people and resources in ways that create real, lasting change. At Plant It Forward, that means opening doors for underrepresented farmers, providing access to the training, land, and support they need to transform our soil into a source of nourishment for our entire community.
As a cancer survivor, this mission isn’t just professional, it’s deeply personal. I know how much the food we grow and eat shapes our health and our future. So, every dollar raised, every partnership built, feels like a step toward a healthier, more sustainable world.
Every day, I share this passion with our CEO Nirjhor Rahman, Farm Programs Director David Beeter, our committed Board, volunteers, and the many others in our network who always show up.”
How do you think about happiness?
What makes me happy is being able to make my work not just part of my life, but part of my family’s and friends’ lives as well. No two days are ever the same, and that keeps me inspired. I find joy in building connections between organizations to close resource gaps, and in earning the trust and partnership of funders and companies that genuinely put their resources to good use. Being part of this collective effort fills me with gratitude. Most of all, I’m happy knowing I’m setting an example for my children, showing them that the simplest acts, done with purpose and care, often bring the greatest rewards.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://plantitforward.farm
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/plantitforwardhtx/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PlantItForwardFarms
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/plant-it-forward-farms/
Image Credits
The photo of me in front of the trailer, and photos 3-6 are credit to Marni Wishart Photography
