Introducing PIFF's New Executive Director: Porchea McGuire!

3/13/2025

As March ushers in Women's History Month, we take this opportunity to celebrate the invaluable contributions of women in agriculture and food systems, highlighting the critical role they play in shaping our communities and ensuring food security. This month, we are particularly excited to announce the hiring of our new Executive Director, Porchea McGuire, whose diverse background and passionate commitment to community empowerment align perfectly with our mission at Partners IN Food and Farming.

Porchea is a dedicated wife and a mother of two beautiful children, and she draws inspiration from her family, believing that nurturing the next generation is essential for creating a sustainable future. She hails from Gary, Indiana, and is the proud owner of Shiloh Divine Farms in Merrillville. Her farm is a testament to her dedication to sustainable agriculture, where she cultivates a diverse array of vegetables, with a particular passion for growing tomatoes, peppers, and an assortment of medicinal and culinary herbs. Her hands-on experience as a diversified vegetable farmer gives her a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities that farmers face today.

Porchea’s professional journey is characterized by her commitment to organizational capacity building across food systems organizations throughout the state. She firmly believes in utilizing intentional strategies that prioritize community engagement and empower individuals through education and resources. Her expertise in trauma-informed approaches further enhances her ability to connect with community members on a meaningful level, ensuring that everyone feels valued and supported.

Her passion for serving farmers extends to all farmers, including small and midsized rural farmers, urban farmers, and the diverse intersections of farmers who contribute to our agricultural landscape. She understands that each group faces unique challenges and has distinct needs, and she is dedicated to creating spaces that uplift and support the varied experiences of all farming communities. By championing the voices of small and midsized farmers as well as urban farmers, she aims to enhance collaboration and solidarity within the agricultural sector.

Welcome Porchea!