A group of York County students and community leaders is turning a conversation about food security into action.
Difference Makers began after a Hope Sojourn event last year focused on agriculture, food access and education. The group is now working to become a nonprofit called Difference Makers: Difference in Action.
Bridget Kavan, one of the student leaders, says the mission goes beyond providing food – it’s also about empowering young people to solve community problems.
“I know a lot of people see problems and have sympathy, but not very many are able to actually go out and help. So our group is trying to add support to those in need and have a cause to fight for.”
The group’s first focus is improving food security in York County by teaching people how to grow their own food and creating more reliable access to fresh, nutritious options.
Kerry Hoffsneider, who helped launch the effort, says the project is built around collaboration between youth, agriculture partners and the broader community.
“We sought out some youth from FFA. We have interest from other community members too. It’s not just an FFA program. We’re growing, and now we’re on the process of becoming a nonprofit – Difference Makers: Difference in Action.”
Difference Makers will launch its message at the York County Fair, where the group will host a booth in the Mercantile Building, hold a fundraiser and collect support for future projects.
Carly Uffelman says the group hopes the fair provides an opportunity to start conversations about food security and community involvement.
“We just want to see and get as many donations as we can to help increase the access to health and fresh food in our community.”
The group is also planning a “Stories in Action” program to share community experiences and highlight ways people can get involved.
For more information, people can find Difference Makers on Facebook.