Over the course of the semester, Professor James Chairman and his Documentary Production Class have been working closely with Atlantic County’s own Reed’s Farm. The result of their partnership is a series of documentary-style films highlighting the non-profit’s unique mission, commitment to sustainability, and the vital role it plays in local communities.

A Meaningful Purpose at Reed’s Farm is a 501 c3 non-profit organization and the focus of the documentary content. Making a point to employ organic and sustainable farming practices, the farm addresses a trifecta of priorities: soil regeneration, community inclusiveness, and food insecurity in Atlantic County. In addition to routine farming operations, Reed’s Farm regularly provides youth learning programs, career workshops, and job opportunities inclusive of people with developmental disabilities.

The videos produced for the farm by Stockton’s Documentary Production Class are being published on a Youtube Channel. The first few are already available to view, with more set to be released in the coming weeks. Each piece explores a different aspect of the organization, highlighting the farm’s role as a community gathering space dedicated to addressing relevant local issues. By helping to immortalize the ethos of Reed’s farm, students enrolled in COMM 3350 played a part in cementing the organization’s historic legacy for the inspiration of generations to come.

The channel’s first video features Cookie Till, who co-founded the non-profit in 2020. Framed within a lush green backdrop, Till recounts her original vision for the farm. “When I heard it went up for sale, I thought, this needs to be kept a farm. It needs to be an organic farm. It needs to be a resource hub for the community.” As she speaks, her interview is enhanced with complementing footage; employees at work in idyllic gardens, community members diligently chopping vegetables, and farm animals roaming the sanctuary.

“We are incredibly grateful for the opportunity to partner with A Meaningful Purpose at Reed’s Farm,” said Chairman, who oversaw the project. “This collaboration enriches the educational experience of our students. It not only gives them the perspective needed to ‘act locally and think globally,’ but also gives an insider’s look at an iconic local institution to a broader audience.” Those interested in viewing the remainder of the pieces produced by COMM 3350 should make sure to subscribe to the accompanying YouTube page. For more information on Reed’s Farm, check out their website and social media pages!