The Ripple Effect Award
The Ripple Effect of Kindness: Honoring Curtis Jones, 2026
At Tucson Village Farm, we teach young people about the power of small actions to create meaningful change. Few people embody that belief more fully than Curtis Jones, the namesake and inspiration behind our new annual Ripple Effect Award.
Curtis is a man of integrity, kindness, enthusiasm, and generosity. Since becoming involved with TVF, he has helped shape our organization in ways that continue to ripple outward through our staff, programs, volunteers, and the thousands of young people and families we serve.
One shining example of Curtis's thoughtful generosity was the creation of our orchard, which he dedicated to his beloved high school teacher, Mr. Brooks, and to educators everywhere who inspire. It was a fitting tribute from someone who understands the profound impact a single person can have on the future of another.
When Curtis hears about a need, he finds a way to help make things happen. He believes deeply in our mission, but he also understands that missions are brought to life by people. He invests not only in programs and projects, but in the staff members who pour their hearts into this work every day.
His support can be seen throughout the farm. He helped make it possible for our Midweek Market to grow into the thriving community gathering space it is today by supporting the position that helped guide its growth and expansion. He also supported our Culinary Educator position, helping launch a homeschool program that now reaches an entirely new population of young people and families. He helped improve the farm with much-needed signage, creating a more welcoming and accessible experience for all who visit. Time and again, Curtis has stepped forward to support the needs of our organization.
Yet what makes Curtis truly remarkable is not simply what he has done, but how he does it. He radiates kindness and enthusiasm. He shares his ideas freely. He celebrates the successes of others, encourages their dreams, and believes in people's potential. His generosity is not rooted in recognition, but in a genuine desire to help people and communities thrive. He sees possibilities where others see obstacles and inspires those around him to do the same.
The Ripple Effect Award was created to honor individuals whose actions inspire positive change in others. It recognizes those who understand that a single act of kindness, a word of encouragement, or an investment in another person can create waves far beyond what we can see.
As we look to the future, the Ripple Effect Award will become an annual tradition at Tucson Village Farm, celebrating individuals whose generosity, character, and commitment to community create lasting impact. It is our hope that Curtis will continue to be part of this tradition as the honorary chair of the award, helping us recognize and celebrate others who share his values and commitment to making the world a better place.
Quite honestly, we are running out of ways to express our gratitude for all Curtis has done for Tucson Village Farm. This award is one small attempt to recognize the extraordinary impact of his kindness, leadership, and generosity. His influence can be seen in our orchard, our market, our programs, our staff, and in the countless lives touched by Tucson Village Farm.
Thank you, Curtis! The orchard you've created will bear fruit for years to come, just as your generosity will continue to nourish our community long into the future.