Goodness Weekly 1.13.2025

“Essentially, all life depends upon the soil ... There can be no life without soil and no soil without life; they have evolved together.”
Charles E. Kellogg, USDA Yearbook of Agriculture, 1938

What’s Good

At Sunset Ridge Collective, we believe our impact extends far beyond the walls of our campus. Across San Antonio, we’re building connections, empowering communities, and fostering flourishing for all. Through partnerships with organizations like For Her, we are amplifying the voices and work of leaders in our city who are shaping the future of human flourishing.

Join us during DreamWeek for an inspiring evening where we’ll explore the six domains of human flourishing, rooted in research from Harvard’s Human Flourishing Program. Each speaker brings a unique perspective on how we can all contribute to the flourishing of women and our entire community.

This event is a celebration of the connections we’re making throughout San Antonio—from local leaders to grassroots organizations—working together to create lasting change. Small bites and refreshments will be served.

RSVP today to hear these connected stories.

RSVP HERE

It Starts with Soil

Sarah Clavieres, Sunset Ridge Market Manager, Sunset Ridge Collective

Choosing to be involved with regenerative farming, grow a garden, collaborate with other farmers, and start a farmers market is rooted in my deep belief that the soil is the foundation of the change our planet desperately needs. I believe the health of our land is directly tied to the health of everything else—from the food we eat to the climate we live in. By working with the land, nurturing the soil, and supporting the stewards who tend to it, I feel that I am contributing to a necessary transformation, both for the planet and for the future generations who will inherit it.

The reality of today’s economy often makes it difficult for farmers and ranchers to be properly supported. Yet, what they do is some of the hardest, most important work there is. They are the keepers of the land, and they should be uplifted for the invaluable role they play in our lives. This is why I’m committed to working alongside them, whether it’s through sharing knowledge, collaborating on projects, or advocating for better market conditions. By creating a farmers market, I hope to give these hard-working individuals a louder voice, helping them thrive and remain sustainable in an increasingly challenging environment.

The connection I feel with nature, with the rhythm of the seasons, the seed, the soil, the animals—it all brings a deep sense of purpose. Working with the earth is not only fulfilling my personal mission, but it also aligns with the greater change I want to see in the world. I have always believed in the importance of a community that respects the land and understands the sanctity of God’s creation. Sunset Ridge has embodied this belief in such a powerful way. Their commitment to sustainable practices and their reverence for nature is something I truly respect, and I am proud to be a part of this community.

My involvement with this community has been deeply influenced by the network of like-minded individuals I’ve met over the years—people who share the same passion for protecting the environment. It was through these connections that I first learned about Sunset Ridge, and it’s where I have found support and inspiration. Similarly, my children attend Sprouts School because it is nature- and community-based. The school’s leadership is filled with experienced professionals who genuinely love and care for the children, fostering the same values of stewardship and connection to nature that I hold dear.

The dream of starting a farmers market has been years in the making, and I can’t think of a better space or a more supportive community to bring this dream to life. The market represents not only a chance for farmers and ranchers to have a direct voice in the marketplace, but also an opportunity to bring people closer to the source of their food and the people who grow it. I’m excited to see how we can grow this initiative, support regenerative agriculture, and continue to create a positive impact on our local food system. By fostering healthier habits, closing ecological loops, and reducing our carbon footprint, we’re taking tangible steps toward the change we want to see in the world. This journey feels incredibly fulfilling, and I’m eager to see how it continues to evolve, both for our community and for the planet.

Be sure to say hello to Sarah, if you haven’t already, every Saturday at Sunset Ridge Farmers Market.

This Week…

Jan 16th - Free Headshots for Entrepreneurs
Sunset Ridge Farmers Market - Every Saturday, 9 AM - 1 PM
CLOSED - In observance of the MLK Jr Holiday, Church and Collective Offices will be closed, along with One Another Coffee.

Coming Up…

Jan 23rd: Dream Week: Neighboring Our Way to Flourishing 6-8pm

Event Rentals - Charis Park, interior event space, etc available for 2025 email rentals@sunset-ridge.org

Community Partners: Please follow our Community Partners for updated schedules and events. One Another Coffee, NYX Wellness, Scott’s Pizza, Mission Compost, Impact Guild, Community First Food Pantry, Sunset Ridge Farmers Market, Sprouts School.