Hello, hello! 

My name is Taylor Pond and I’m the new K-12 Schoolyard Gardens Coordinator. Though I have only been with KCCG for a little over a week, I am certain that I’m exactly in the place I’m meant to be. This role is helping me to fulfill my dream of becoming a healthy and positive influence in my community. I’m more than grateful to have a hand in inspiring future gardeners and healthy eaters! 

A little bit about my background: 

I’m a Kansas City native and lifelong lover of nature, gardening, community, and healthy foods. Some of my fondest childhood memories are with my grandma – working in her gardens and cooking delicious meals. I was the girl who was climbing trees, building forts in the woods, and making mud pies! Not much has changed, as my favorite place to be is still outside, on a trail, or eating a picnic in a field – somewhere off a beaten path.  

I grew up in Lee’s Summit, Missouri and went on to graduate from Rockhurst University. My degree is in Nonprofit Leadership. I have worked in various industries, from the arts and copywriting to fundraising and marketing. I am a certified yoga instructor and teach around the Kansas City area.  

One thing I’m very passionate about is living a natural lifestyle. Over the past several years, I’ve studied herbalism and the healing power of plants, especially those cultivated and consumed in one’s local community. I believe what one eats can have a profound effect on how they feel, both mentally and physically. 

I now live in wonderful Waldo with my family – including an awesome son, two cats, one dog, and a crested gecko! We love to travel, garden, make art, read books, and get outside anytime we can. I so look forward to serving the community alongside the amazing team in Schoolyard Gardens and everyone else at KCCG. I feel truly fortunate to have come across such a meaningful path in my journey!