GOVERNANCE
Sociocracy
As a part of our mission as a decolonizing social experiment, Abundance Community Farm has adopted an organizational model called sociocracy. Sociocracy is a non-hierarchical, circle-based structure that distributes authority and decision making, while deepening engagement, trust, transparency and connection throughout the community. Using consent-based decision making, known as Dynamic Governance, the guiding body, called the General Circle works together with departments, known as functional circles, to operate the farm and farm programs. Facilitation approaches like sharing in rounds so all voices can be heard, active feedback cycles for continuous improvement, both process-wise and interpersonally, and consent-based decision making that explores dissent so proposals can be improved to meet as many needs as possible and are “safe enough to try” are some of the hallmarks of sociocracy that make it radically different than conventional, hierarchical approaches.
We are continually unlearning and learning how to be more inclusive, self-responsible, collaborative, and effective as teams and as team members. To learn more about sociocracy, please explore these links:
-
Overview video - Sociocracy for All (~5 minutes)
-
Intro to Sociocracy Video - Sociocracy for All (~20 minutes)
-
Sociocracy for Communities - Diane Leafe Christian (~7 min)
Society
Abundance Community Farm Society is the educational arm of the farm. Its mandate is to provide educational programs for community development and regenerative agriculture practices. The community agriculture program, retreats and educational programs at the farm all operate under the society.
Board of Directors
Amir Niroumand, Chair
Dr. Amir Niroumand is a social entrepreneur with a primary interest in utilizing food as a tool for changing cultural values and norms. He founded Abundance Community Farm in 2016 as a social experiment in creating a community culture that thrives in harmony with nature. Amir is also a fuel cell scientist, where he leads cutting edge R&D programs between industry and academia.
Ariana Arguello, Treasurer
Ariana Arguello brings over 20 years of board experience and works as a sustainability and innovation professional in the energy industry. She’s passionate about creating systems that care for both people and the planet, and approaches every challenge with a spirit of collaboration and accountability. Rooted in values of inclusion, integrity, and action, Ariana is excited to contribute to Abundance Community Farm Society’s mission, supporting a thriving, regenerative future rooted in community.
Hassti Hamidi, Secretary
Dr. Amir Niroumand is a social entrepreneur with a primary interest in utilizing food as a tool for changing cultural values and norms. He founded Abundance Community Farm in 2016 as a social experiment in creating a community culture that thrives in harmony with nature. Amir is also a fuel cell scientist, where he leads cutting edge R&D programs between industry and academia.
Gregory Coyes, Director at Large
Ariana Arguello brings over 20 years of board experience and works as a sustainability and innovation professional in the energy industry. She’s passionate about creating systems that care for both people and the planet, and approaches every challenge with a spirit of collaboration and accountability. Rooted in values of inclusion, integrity, and action, Ariana is excited to contribute to Abundance Community Farm Society’s mission, supporting a thriving, regenerative future rooted in community.