March 2025
Photography // Courtesy of Indy Community Farms
Indy Community Farms was founded in 2024 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting sustainable agriculture and ensuring local food access. Indy Community Farms is located at 17118 Little Eagle Creek Ave, Westfield, IN, in Hamilton County.
The initiative is led by Chad and Krista Hughes, longtime business owners, community leaders and passionate advocates for healthy food systems. Under their leadership, Indy Community Farms is growing into a vibrant space where individuals and families can cultivate fresh produce, learn about sustainable practices and build lasting connections.
“Our mission centers on cultivating healthy food options, building connections among residents and offering an inclusive, supportive environment for all who want to learn about gardening and sustainable agriculture,” says Krista Hughes.
A Legacy of Service and Leadership
With over 35 years of public service, Chad Hughes has been a firefighter since 1989 and currently serves as a captain for the Carmel Fire Department. His deep-rooted commitment to helping others extends beyond emergency services to community projects like Indy Community Farms. Growing up in Tipton, Indiana, Chad was inspired to serve by watching local firefighters in action. His dedication to community service has only strengthened over the years.
Krista Hughes brings her extensive experience in business and community hospitality to the farm. She has successfully built and managed various ventures, including The Corner Tavern in Cicero, Harbour Coffee Café in Noblesville and Custom by Krista, an embroidery and sewing business. Her expertise in business management, combined with her passion for fostering community connections, has helped shape Indy Community Farms into a welcoming hub for education, growth and sustainability.
A Vision for Sustainable Agriculture and Local Food Access
Indy Community Farms aims to create a welcoming space where people from all walks of life can experience the benefits of growing their own food. The organization offers garden plots and greenhouses for rent, hosts educational programs and provides volunteer opportunities for residents to engage in sustainable food production. By addressing food insecurity and promoting community resilience, Indy Community Farms aims to make a lasting impact on Hamilton County and beyond.
Property Improvements and Future Plans
The property’s historic Eagletown barn adds a unique element to Indy Community Farms.
“The bricks used in the barn were repurposed from the Congressional School in Eagletown, which dates back to the early 1900s,” Chad shared. “The keystone still bears the name ‘Washington Township No. 6.’”
The Hugheses have made significant improvements to the property to enhance accessibility and functionality.
“We now have water at the barn,” Chad shared. “We accessed the well, updated it, shocked it and installed a new yard hydrant. It was a big endeavor, but a necessary one.”
A key addition to the property is a removable pedestrian walkway designed to withstand heavy rain.
“It’s six feet wide and can accommodate golf carts, lawn tractors or utility vehicles,” Krista explained. “It’s designed so we can remove it in case of heavy rain and put it back when needed.”
Looking ahead, the farm is set to feature raised garden beds and multipurpose greenhouses.
“The first greenhouse will be 16 by 40 feet and will serve various functions,” Krista noted. “It could be used for hanging basket flowers, gardening classes or even small events like weddings. It’s truly a flexible space.”
Community Engagement and Educational Opportunities
Indy Community Farms is committed to fostering educational opportunities, particularly for young people.
“Getting kids back into learning about where their food comes from, sustainability and better gardening practices is crucial,” Chad said. “We hope to collaborate with local schools to develop volunteer programs where students can learn hands-on skills related to farming and land maintenance.”
To further support community engagement, Indy Community Farms is developing an ambassador program for its first cohort of participants.
“These early adopters will be our community farm ambassadors,” Krista said. “They will play a key role in spreading the word, helping to build the program and enjoying exclusive benefits.”
One of the farm’s key initiatives is making gardening accessible to everyone.
“We’re offering raised garden beds on 12-by-12-foot plots for just $1 a day,” Chad explained. “We want to ensure affordability while also fostering a sense of ownership among participants.”
To further increase accessibility, Indy Community Farms is exploring sponsorship opportunities.
“We’re looking for sponsors who can support individuals who may not be able to afford the plots,” Krista noted. “That way, more people can benefit from fresh, homegrown produce.”
Beyond gardening, Indy Community Farms has plans for a farmer’s market, additional greenhouses and even a small-scale community poultry project called “Little Chicken Creek.”
“We’re setting up a little chicken town with around 20 to 30 chickens,” Krista said. “It’ll be a fun, interactive space for families to visit and learn about raising poultry.”
Chad emphasized the farm’s long-term vision.
“This is just the beginning. We’re continuously looking for ways to expand and improve, whether through additional greenhouses, new community programs or partnerships with local organizations.”
Join Your Fellow Growers at Indy Community Farms
Indy Community Farms is more than just a garden — it’s a space for growth, education and community connection. Whether you’re interested in renting a garden plot, volunteering or participating in educational programs, there’s a place for you here.
“We invite everyone to be part of this journey,” Krista said. “Together, we can cultivate a brighter, healthier future for our community.”
For more information on how to get involved, visit Indy Community Farms at indycommunityfarms.org or via phone at 463-842-1114.