On September 15, 2024, the picturesque Meadow Lane Farm in Louisburg, NC will serve as the backdrop for the highly anticipated Dinner in the Meadow event. This unique gathering not only offers a delightful culinary experience but also serves as a fundraiser for the Leonard-Mobley Small Farm Fund. Established in 2014, this non-profit organization is dedicated to nurturing and empowering small farms across North Carolina. Join us in celebrating our local farming community and supporting the growth of small farmers as we share the inspiring story of Marjorie Leonard and Jerry Stephen Mobley, after whom the fund is named.

Honoring Remarkable North Carolina Farmers

The Leonard-Mobley Small Farm Fund pays tribute to two exceptional individuals who made significant contributions to agriculture in North Carolina: Marjorie Leonard and Jerry Stephen Mobley. Marjorie, a devoted educator and advocate for equality, emphasized the importance of fresh, locally sourced food and the vitality of local farms. Jerry, an agribusinessman and owner of Meadow Lane Farm, dedicated himself to mentoring and guiding small farmers. Their shared vision and commitment to the local farming community continue to inspire the work of the Fund as it supports and uplifts small farmers throughout the state.

Promoting the Leonard-Mobley Small Farm Grant

One of the key initiatives of the Dinner in the Meadow event is the annual Leonard-Mobley Small Farm Grant. This sought-after grant recognizes and supports small farm owners in eastern and central North Carolina who demonstrate exceptional dedication and commitment to their craft. As a community, we come together to enjoy a delightful meal, surrounded by the serene meadows of Meadow Lane Farm, while celebrating the selection of the grant recipient. This year’s event, hosted by WUNC’s Frank Stasio, promises to be a memorable evening filled with delicious dishes prepared by talented Triangle and regional chefs using ingredients sourced from local farms and food artisans.

Supporting Small Farms for a Sustainable Future

Dinner in the Meadow is more than just a flavorful gathering; it symbolizes our collective support for North Carolina’s small farming community. All proceeds from the event go directly to the Leonard-Mobley Small Farm Fund, which carefully selects a deserving farmer based on the applications received. Currently, the Fund is accepting grant applications from small farms that generate at least 50% of the owner’s personal income and have been in operation for a minimum of two years by July 1, 2024. The $5,000 grant aims to enhance the recipient farm’s operations, ensuring its longevity and success.

Join Us in Celebrating Our Local Farmers

We invite you to be a part of this incredible initiative by securing your tickets or reserving a table for the Dinner in the Meadow event. By doing so, you join us in honoring the legacy of Marjorie Leonard and Jerry Stephen Mobley while supporting small farms and farmers throughout North Carolina.

The Leonard-Mobley Small Farm Fund Grant and Dinner in the Meadow event offer a unique opportunity to celebrate the indomitable spirit of our local farmers and contribute to the long-term success of small farms in North Carolina. By attending the event and supporting the grant program, we collectively nurture and strengthen our local farming community. Join us on September 15, 2024, at Meadow Lane Farm in Louisburg, NC, as we come together to forge a sustainable future for small farms and honor the invaluable contributions of Marjorie Leonard and Jerry Stephen Mobley.

DEADLINE TO SUBMIT GRANT APPLICATIONS IS JUNE 1, 2024 at 11:59pm.

For more information, please contact the Dinner in the Meadow planning team at: dinnerinthemeadow@gmail.com