Peter Allen Lewis, founder and president of Apple Ridge Farm, Inc., is retiring, and his son, John Russell Faulkner Lewis, has been hired to step into the role of executive director.
“The Board of Directors is ecstatic to have John transition into the role of Executive Director of Apple Ridge Farm,” said Melinda J. Payne, Board chair. “With Peter as his mentor, John is sure to blaze new trails.”
A news conference to introduce John to the community will be held at 12 noon Friday, July 29 at Apple Ridge Farm Camp and Conference Center (Meador Building) located at 9230 Pine Forest Rd Copper Hill, VA.
John Lewis comes to Apple Ridge with more than 17 years of experience working with inner-city youth in the public schools, community, outdoor education and recreational settings. He has served as a Certified Prevention and Health Education Specialist for the Virginia Department of Health in Richmond and Richmond Behavioral Health Authority, where he developed prevention and educational programs for at-risk youth. John is also the founder and former executive director of Renew Richmond, a nonprofit organization that promotes sustainable living practices, increased access to fresh, healthy produce and enhanced nutrition education in low-income communities. His work experience has been deeply rooted in organizations that focus on improving conditions for children living at or below the poverty level.
John’s proclivity for helping the disadvantaged was established while working as camp counselor and mentor at Apple Ridge Farm from 1999-2004.
“I can’t begin to tell you what it means to me to be afforded this opportunity to lead Apple Ridge,” John said. “The organization would not be where it is today without Peter’s vision, devotion and organizational proficiency…. I learned from and continue to lead by his example.”
Apple Ridge Farm, Inc. is a non-profit, tax-exempt 501(c) 3 organization whose mission is to provide enriching outdoor educational experiences for less fortunate children.
For more information, please contact the office at (540) 982-1322.
