Judy Stafford, the executive director of the Cowichan Green Community for 17 years, has announced her retirement.
Since the CGC began focusing on environmental sustainability in the Cowichan region in 2004, the organization has initiated an array of programs aimed at bringing people closer to the land in the area, sharing knowledge between generations and increasing the region’s food security and diversity, and the Vancouver-born Stafford has played a large part in that success since she began work with the CGC in 2007.
Olivia Dubois, a communications and marketing intern at the CGC, said Stafford has been an unwavering force behind the organization’s transformation into the impactful organization it is today. She said that throughout her tenure, Stafford has mentored hundreds of interns, students, and staff, raised millions of dollars to benefit the local community and beyond, and spearheaded countless programs and projects that have left an indelible mark in the community.
Stafford founded Duncan’s Seedy Sunday, the KinPark Children’s Summer Camp, the Cowichan Food Map, and the annual Donor’s Breakfast as well as other programs, and was also instrumental in the acquisition, renovation, and sale of The Station building on Duncan Street.
As well, over the years, Stafford represented CGC at conferences and annual general meetings, presented to local, provincial, and federal governments, and served on key committees, including the City of Duncan’s environment committee, the Cowichan Valley Regional District’s agriculture and environment committees, and North Cowichan’s agriculture committee.
Dubois said Stafford’s tireless efforts have earned CGC numerous accolades, including the Downtown Duncan BIA’s Spirit of Excellence Award, the City of Duncan’s Residential and Commercial Building Award, a Chamber of Commerce Black Tie Award, and the Real Estate Land Award.
“During the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Judy’s leadership shone brightly,” Dubois said. “She ensured no staff were laid off, launched critical new programs, and established the Emergency Food Task Force, which evolved into the Cowichan Food Security Network under her guidance. Her determination extended even to local governance, where she championed the legalization of backyard chickens in the City of Duncan.”
Dubois said that although she is stepping down, Stafford will remain involved with CGC during the transition to a new executive director, assisting with grant proposals and offering her expertise.
“We are also delighted that she will join us in celebrating the opening of our new Food Hub facility on Beverly Street in 2025,” she said. “The search for our next executive director has begun.”
