Laurie came to Eco Farm as a result of facing the demands of being a successful Fortune 100 executive. When faced with several life-altering illnesses, she knew the trajectory of her life needed to change, including a departure from the corporate world and a new focus on her health and well-being.  “Gifts from earth sustained my life” shares Laurie.  “And now I want to share this knowledge with others.  The Hongik ECO Farm approach teaches people to grow food in responsible, sustainable ways while also nurturing love and gratitude both for the land and for each other.  

Silvana’s interest in Hongik Eco Farm was partially inspired by a transformational experience she had with a Blackfoot Native American. “That interaction opened new insights about the world around me, and our relationship to it”, adds Silvana, “Hongik ECO Farm is both a vehicle to begin restoring the soil to its healthy state and a platform to teach our communities how to live in coexistence. It is a place whose goal is to produce fresh healthy food that benefits both those working on the farm and those in need.  This farm is much more than just food; it’s a healing farm, for our children, families, and communities.” 

The Hongik ECO Farm story begins with founder/board member Younglim Lee, who grew up in Korea during a time of severe political oppression and a robust pro-democracy movement, events that greatly influenced her.  Moving eventually to the USA, she embarked on an academic career, earning a Ph.D. from Yale University along the way. 

But it was the illness of her son that profoundly changed her.  The challenge of nurturing him back to health led to depression and questions about the true purpose of life. It was during her search for answers that she reconnected with “Hongik”, the ancient practice of her homeland, and the realization that the ultimate and lasting healing comes from the transformation of a whole person.  While working at a community farm, she thought more could be done to serve the community and launched a program to serve local food banks. 

With the experience of having a proven, working model for regenerative community farming, Younglim was eager to launch her own concept.  Covid had exposed many of society’s vulnerabilities, encouraging her to believe that now was the time to launch the Hongik ECO Farm. “I dream of a world where we can learn to love and respect ourselves and nature.  Watching the devastation this great country was experiencing through the Covid-19 pandemic convinced me that a society is as strong as its weakest link, and if we want our world to be changed, we must live that change first.” 

Larry’s Midwest roots and strong blue-collar heritage bring a unique blend of experiences to HongIk ECO Farm. In his 42-year career, Larry has navigated roles as an Industrial Engineer, Plant Manager, and Project Manager in the Medical Products and Consumer Packaged Goods industries. His journey has included entrepreneurship, as he owned and operated a home remodeling business—an endeavor that seamlessly integrated his family’s rich construction background.

Upon his retirement in 2018, Larry transitioned into his current pursuits. With a 2nd Degree Black Belt in Tai Chi, he has passionately channeled his energies into instructing others in this ancient art form, a testament to his commitment to holistic well-being. At the same time, his home workshop has evolved into a haven of creativity, where he meticulously crafts and markets handcrafted furniture.  Shares Larry, “I believe individuals need to engage with the tactile world, embracing nature and the act of crafting, as a means to ground themselves and alleviate the rigors of modern life.” His visionary outlook extends to the HongIk ECO Farm, where he aspires to provide the public with immersive, hands-on encounters in planting, cultivating crops, and gaining invaluable insights into the multifaceted tapestry of farm life.

Larry’s multifaceted journey lends a rich and diverse perspective to our board. With a background spanning business, holistic practices, and a profound connection to nature, Larry seamlessly aligns with our mission to create spaces & places reflecting the HongIk philosophy of providing “benefit to all.

Dr. Deborah Galen, MD, has dedicated the better part of her lifetime to enhancing individuals’ well-being by seamlessly blending conventional Western medicine with integrative mind-body techniques. While she has since transitioned from her active clinical practice into retirement, her passion for fostering holistic health remains vibrant. Presently, Dr. Galen channels her expertise into imparting the wisdom of yoga, Qi Gong, and meditation.

Her unwavering commitment to advancing integrative proactive health strategies underscores her profound understanding of the intrinsic connection between the mind and body in the realm of well-being. Dr. Galen’s outlook extends to community enrichment and sustainable living, a testament to her enduring dedication. Her genuine enthusiasm for endorsing the HongIk ECO Farm Project showcases her unyielding support for initiatives that harmonize with her values.

With a legacy built upon healing and transformation, Dr. Deborah Galen continues to inspire through her teachings, embodying a harmonious blend of medical expertise, holistic insight, and community-driven advocacy.