At St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, our commitment extends beyond crafting exceptional wines—we are dedicated to giving back to our community. In honor of our founder, Joe Martin (1934-2015), we dedicate one special day each year to community service and volunteerism, making a positive impact in Sonoma County. This annual event, known as Joe Martin Day, reflects our core values of social responsibility and community engagement.
Wineries that Give Back: St. Francis Winery & Vineyards Day of Service
Joe Martin Day: A Tradition of Giving
Each June, on a chosen Tuesday, St. Francis Winery & Vineyards halts all operations, allowing our entire team to participate in a day dedicated to giving back. This initiative, named after our founder, Joe Martin, is a testament to his legacy of social responsibility and community support. Joe Martin Day is a time for our employees to step away from their regular duties and volunteer at local non-profits or charitable organizations, contributing their time, treasure and talent to various causes.
Planning for Impact
We spend several months meticulously planning Joe Martin Day to ensure our efforts have a meaningful impact on the community. Each year, we select a different cause to focus on, ensuring a broad and diverse range of support within Sonoma County. From environmental conservation to youth programs, our team is committed to making a difference in the lives of others.
Forget Me Not Farms: Healing Through Nature
Founded in 1992, Forget Me Not Farm offers therapeutic programs for at-risk children, utilizing animal-assisted and horticultural activities to break the cycle of abuse. The farm provides a safe and nurturing environment where children can bond, learn, and heal through weekly sessions with dedicated volunteers.
Forget Me Not Farm also runs a vocational training and mentoring program for at-risk youth aged 14-18, teaching essential real-life skills. Partnering with the Humane Society of Sonoma County, the farm mentorship programs gives teens experience in roles such as Animal Care Technician and Veterinary Assistant. Additionally, the farm’s gardens support a seed-to-table program, emphasizing the importance of fresh produce and nutrition education. Weekly deliveries of fresh produce are given to children in need, ensuring they have access to nutritious food.
For more information about Forget Me Not Farm and its incredible programs, please visit forgetmenotfarm.org.
Making A Difference
Joe Martin Day is more than just a day of volunteering; it’s a celebration of our founder’s vision and our winery’s commitment to social responsibility. It provides our employees with a unique opportunity to give back to the community and make a tangible difference in the lives of others. Through our ongoing support of local organizations like Forget Me Not Farm, we continue to uphold our values and honor Joe Martin’s legacy.
At St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, giving back to the community is at the heart of what we do. We are proud to support various causes and initiatives that enrich Sonoma County, fostering a culture of care and compassion.
By choosing St. Francis Winery & Vineyards, you are not only enjoying exceptional wines but also supporting a business that values community engagement and social responsibility. Join us in our mission to make a positive impact, one bottle at a time
