History
At its core, Shepherd's Purse is a calling from God.
In late 1993, God gave Jim three words: Feed the People. Those words stuck with Jim for almost two decades, as he sought to determine the meaning and purpose as to why he was being called. In 2009, after a spiritual conversation with a pastor, Jim had a dream which inspired the name Shepherd’s Purse.
In 2010, the calling was acted upon, and Jim and Amy Durgan formed the non-profit, 501(c)(3) Shepherd’s Purse.
Shepherd's Purse initially started growing small amounts of vegetables in the Durgan's backyard and buying from a local farmer. Shepherd's Purse now rents several large plots each year.
Our Founders
Jim Durgan was raised on a farm until he was 13. That agricultural foundation gave Jim a lifelong love of the outdoors and getting his hands in the soil.
As Jim's wife, Amy is along for the ride, and she wouldn't have it any other way!
Our Board
The Shepherd's Purse board is a dedicated four-person team, whose ages and life experiences run the gamut of abilities. But they are equal in their dedication to the mission to Feed the People.
Our Volunteers
Shepherd's Purse could not have become as successful in its mission without its volunteers, those who are willing to give their time and labor to the mission to Feed the People.
Each season Shepherd's Purse averages around 10 volunteers. Every volunteer is engaged in the process, and their input has been invaluable to the success of Shepherd's Purse. Most volunteers give anywhere from 20-40 hours of their time during a growing season, which in Wisconsin runs from May to October. Jim, Amy and the board are thankful for their time and input.