Our Leadership
Sand n' Straw Foundation is led by a small, hands-on team and overseen by a volunteer Board of Directors committed to transparency, sound stewardship, and the long-term health of our mission. Below you can learn more about the people who run our programs day to day and the board members who guide our organization's direction.
Rich Viles
Rich Viles serves as Farm Director of Sand n Straw Foundation, overseeing the care and stewardship of the six-acre regenerative farm. His work includes soil health, crop planning, fruit tree care, and growing food without pesticides or chemicals of any kind.
For the past eight years, Rich has poured his heart into learning this land, building the farm’s regenerative practices, and creating a place where children and families can see where food truly comes from.
Rich leads farm tours, workshops, and hands-on instruction that anchor the Foundation’s educational programs. He believes that working the land with care, patience, and integrity is one of the most powerful lessons we can offer the next generation.
April Viles
April Viles serves as Program Director of Sand n Straw Foundation, overseeing Young Pioneers and the Foundation’s children’s educational offerings, including seasonal workshops.
She founded Young Pioneers in 2021 with a small group of families and has helped grow it into a program now serving over 300 children each semester.
April’s heart is to create a place where children can slow down, get their hands in the soil, discover where food comes from, and experience the wonder of learning outdoors. She believes every child should have the opportunity to build confidence, curiosity, and connection through meaningful time on the farm.
Jonathan & Jenna Viles
Jonathan and Jenna have been part of the Sand n Straw journey from the beginning. In 2018, after Jonathan graduated from college, they set aside their original plans to help build the farm from the ground up.
Together, they help support the daily operations and continued growth of Sand n Straw Community Farm, Young Pioneers, and Sand n Straw Foundation. Their heart is to create a place where children and families can connect with their food, learn practical skills, and experience life on the farm.
Jonathan and Jenna are raising their two children, Harper and Daniel, on the farm.
Stephen Viles
After graduating from college in 2018, Stephen chose to help his family build Sand n Straw from the ground up.
Over the years, he has contributed to farm projects, infrastructure, land stewardship, and the growth of the organization’s educational programs. His steady work behind the scenes has helped shape the farm into a place where children and families can learn, grow, and connect with their food.
Stephen is passionate about helping the next generation understand where food comes from and appreciate the work behind it.
Our Board of Directors meets regularly to review programs, finances, and strategic priorities, and provides oversight of all Foundation activities, including the Young Pioneers Scholarship program and the Community Harvest Fund. For questions about our governance, programs, or how to get involved, please contact us.
Is Sand n' Straw Foundation accepting grants?
Yes. We welcome grant inquiries and funding partnerships from foundations, corporate giving programs, and individual major donors. We are happy to provide program data, scholarship metrics, impact documentation, financial summaries, and a formal letter of inquiry on request. Please contact us to begin the conversation.
How is Sand n' Straw Foundation governed?
Sand n' Straw Foundation is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors that meets regularly to review programs, finances, and strategic priorities. The board provides oversight of all Foundation activities including the Young Pioneers Scholarship Program and the Community Harvest Fund. Day-to-day operations are led by Farm Director Rich Viles and Program Director April Viles.
How do I contact Sand n' Straw Foundation about a major gift or grant?
Reach out directly at april@sandnstraw.com or by phone at (760) 575-4758. You can also use the contact form . We respond to all grant and major gift inquiries within 2 to 3 business days.
Sand n' Straw Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (EIN 83-0645068).