For nearly two decades, Noli Taylor has been a driving force behind Island Grown Initiative (IGI), playing a key role in building a food system that is both equitable and deeply connected to the Martha’s Vineyard community. From pioneering farm-to-school programs to providing fresh, nourishing meals to seniors in need of food support, Noli’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping IGI into a model of food education and access. In this thoughtful interview, Noli shares her journey, the growth of IGI, and her vision for the future of food security on the Island. Read the full interview in The Vine here: Growing an Island: An Interview with Noli Taylor

We are thrilled to welcome two new employees to IGI, both of whom will play crucial roles in streamlining our operations.

Mary Morano joins us as our Marketing Manager, bringing a passion for sustainability and the maritime industry. Born and raised on Martha’s Vineyard, Mary returned in May 2024 after spending three years in New York City, where she worked in corporate marketing at major agencies like Digitas North America and Prosek Partners. She holds a B.S. in Marketing from the College of Charleston, where she graduated cum laude and captained the D1 sailing team. Mary runs a small marketing agency, Marivine, helping Island businesses grow with purpose-driven strategies. Outside of work, she’s an avid runner, sailor, surfer, and traveler. Her love for wooden boats, yoga, and organic farming influences both her career and personal life. Mary approaches everything with creativity and care, whether knitting, pond skating, shucking oysters, or exploring new hobbies.

Vincent "Vinnie" Padalino joins us as the Island Food Pantry Manager. Vinnie has lived on Martha's Vineyard for over 20 years and is passionate about building community. Vinnie has mostly worked in construction, primarily masonry and creative stonework, a crew foreman. Along with an extensive background in the restaurant industry, which has emphasized his skills in fostering positive relationships and valuing teamwork. He holds a B.A. in English Literature from the University of New York at Buffalo, and was formerly in the corporate world as a sales account manager before making the island his home. A founding member of WVVY Community Radio, Vinnie is also active in supporting local causes. He's looking forward to bringing his leadership and communication skills to the role of Island Food Pantry Manager. In his free time, Vinnie enjoys kayaking, clamming, chess, and playing the washboard with local musicians.

We are hiring! IGI is seeking passionate, community-oriented individuals to join us in building a stronger food system.

Field Crew

We are looking for dedicated field hands to help us grow food and build soil throughout the 2025 growing season.

Food System Internship

We are accepting applications for our Summer Teen Internship Program, where participants will gain hands-on experience in the Island food system—from seed to fork. Interns will work alongside IGI’s farming and food equity programs to grow food and feed the community. This is a great opportunity to explore a future food-related career while giving back to the Island. The program requires 90 hours of attendance over July and August. 

To learn more about our open positions and apply, click HERE.

Recently, Emily Armstrong, Education Director, Sophie Mazza, Community Food Waste Educator, and students at the West Tisbury school conducted a food waste audit. Students separated their food waste into a receptacle for one week. At the end of each day, the food waste was weighed. Students sorted a total of 368 pounds of compost! The audit offered valuable insights that will help determine the size of a future composter for the school.

The seeds we plant today will be harvested by Islanders for generations to come.