Thank You Chris! Farewell to a Dedicated Steward

After a decade of unwavering commitment, Chris Rotolo is stepping down from the Steering Committee of Not Far From the Tree.

As he steps back, Chris feels confident in the organization’s future.

A passionate environmentalist from a young age, Chris’ journey with NFFTT has been both impactful and inspiring. “In grade 5, I convinced my mom to switch to phosphate- free laundry detergent,” Chris recalls. “Later, when my family relied on the local food bank, I became acutely aware of food security issues. I knew then that addressing food access and environmental sustainability would be part of my life’s work.”

With over 20 years of experience in the non-profit sector, Chris brought a wealth of knowledge in fund development, operations, and strategy to NFFTT. Drawn to the organization’s mission of harvesting and sharing the urban orchard, Chris became a Supreme Gleaner after his first pick, and soon after joined the Steering Committee.

From its inception, NFFTT has embodied an abundance mindset. “Our end-of-season pizza parties capture this spirit,” Chris says. “Everyone takes ownership – from setup to sauce. It’s a small example of the broader culture we’ve cultivated. Plus, I get to try everyone’s jam, pies, sauces, and ciders!”

(Image caption: many hands make light work when it comes to locally harvested apple juice!)

Reflecting on his tenure, Chris shares, “There were challenging times. I remember a two-month period when Jordy (another past SC member) and I each dedicated 10 hours a week to ensure NFFTT’s financial sustainability. It felt like we were helping the organization take root.”

Chris’ time with NFFTT has had a profound impact on him. “Outside of my wife, Misha, and a few childhood friends, my relationship with NFFTT and its volunteers are among my longest. Those relationships have shaped my values and how I engage with the issues I care about. What I’ve learned from those relationships show up in my work today. “

His new venture, Grow Well – an homage, perhaps – aims to democratize access to expertise. “We support purpose-driven small and medium-sized organizations in practical, sustainable ways. The goal is to help good ideas, like NFFTT, grow.”

One of Chris’ proudest contributions was developing NFFTT’s Theory of Change. “With that in place, I was confident that the organization we’d nurtured would continue to grow, strong and resilient,” he noted.

“We’ve never had a stronger bench of Steering Committee members. I know NFFTT is in good hands.”

As we bid farewell to Chris from the Steering Committee, we celebrate his remarkable journey and look forward to his continued success.

Thank you, Chris, for everything!