Put on your thinking caps – this month we are talking science!
Have you heard the term “epigenetics”? It refers to the study of how lifestyle choices and environmental influences can change not only your own health, but that of your children, grandchildren, and other descendants. Scientists now know that factors like diet, exercise, and stress levels can determine which genes in your DNA are turned “on” or “off”, and those changes get passed along to your descendants! (For more information, see a Harvard University infographic at strongharvest.org/epigenetics.)
This is a deeper view into why Strong Harvest’s work is essential. When people eat moringa as part of their daily diet, their health and energy improve, allowing them to be more physically active and live in ways that bring security and fulfillment. This simple change literally transforms their DNA expression, bringing positive change for generations!
We love to see young people learning about moringa along with their families. Children who grow up eating moringa have the best chance for a healthy life for themselves and their descendants!
In Tanzania, Maasai mother Norkishu and her daughter Nasiti harvest and prepare moringa after Nasiti returns home from school.
Above, Maasai friends Nosotua (seated, with baby on lap), and Naha (seated, with baby on back) teach their children to prepare moringa for their families.
Get to Know Us
Megan – SHI Operations Manager
Megan
- April 2013 – heard Rick & Jeri speak; joined SHI Volunteer Council & became volunteer Translation Coordinator; received Peer Educator training
- November 2013 – SHI team trip to Nicaragua with husband
- March 2019 – hired as part-time SHI Program Assistant after 2 years teaching abroad in Bolivia with family
- October 2020 – joined SHI Board of Directors
- Fall 2023 – transitioned into full-time Operations Manager job
- As Operations Manager: responsible for keeping SHI running both in the office & on the field – everything from bookkeeping/legal compliance to creating newsletters/campaigns/social posts to communicating with & processing reports/photos from Field Reps & Partners
- Lives in Colorado with family (husband & two sons, ages 12 & 14, & female orange tabby cat)
- Fun facts: fluent in Spanish; worked for 10+ years in schools as a Spanish interpreter, teacher’s assistant, & family advocate
- Loves: tea, fresh produce, quiet, books, animals (especially cats!), nature, languages, learning
Megan with her family
Megan shares, “As a highly sensitive introvert, it’s easy for me to feel overwhelmed by the enormity of the problems in the world. I am so grateful to be able to really, truly help people by supporting the work of Strong Harvest. I am amazed by the moringa tree’s benefits and how simple a solution it is to so many issues related to poverty. It is truly a privilege to be part of this good work!”
Your generosity changes generations of lives!
Thank you!
Rick, Jeri, Megan, and the Strong Harvest team
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