Staff

Current Staff at We Can Grow

Michael Smieja - Director

After spending 10+ years of owning and operating several businesses Michael returned back to school. With intentions of  entering business school and making millions, Michael's dreams turned to helping others and what he could do to make an impact in his community. Michael started his community participation on the Windom Park Citizens in Action board of Directors  While attending the University of Minnesota and working for the Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships Michael discovered the connection between food and community. In 2011 Michael became active in the urban agriculture community popping up in the Twin Cities. Then in 2012 Michael started Buchanan Street Farms in Northeast Minneapolis. After one successful season as an urban farmer, Michael focused his attention on a bigger picture of food security for all. With the cooperation of several friends, family, local businesses, city officials, and organizations We Can Grow started in 2013. Along with We Can Grow Michael participates on several boards and committees focused around urban agriculture and urban gardening. Michael's Email

Martin Gordon - Program Manager

Martin is a native of the Madison area and has been living in Minneapolis for the past four years. He focused on environmental sciences and Spanish studies during his undergraduate work at the University of Minnesota but over the years started to focus his interests on agriculture, food and their connections with the environment and people. He's worked at a couple of urban gardens including the Student Organic Farm and the Native American Medicine Garden on the St. Paul Campus. After graduating from the University of Minnesota in December of 2012 with a degree in environmental sciences, policy and management he hopes to use his skills to work with the community to further food justice and environmental justice goals here in Minneapolis. Martin's Email: martin.gordon112@gmail.com

Roscoe

Roscoe is the backbone of our organization. He is the strong silent type whose opinion is valued . He is the cornerstone of moral support for the We Can Grow team. Roscoe was rescued by Mike from the Woodbury Animal Humane Society. He was born January 3rd 2010 and has had two previous families. The first owner passed away and Mike is pretty sure they are responsible for Roscoe's wonderful demeanor. The second family, unfortunately, could not dedicate enough time to Roscoe and had to let him go. In the summer of 2011 Roscoe chose Mike to be his best friend. Not day goes by without Mike appreciating the role Roscoe plays in the lives of the people around him.